David Finlay Talks 'Contract Chess Game,' Says AEW Money Is Better Than NJPW Money

As two of the top members of the new stable The Cut, formerly known as The Last Outfit, it be easy to mistake David Finlay and Clark Connors as long-time AEW veterans. In reality, the duo have been with AEW for less than a year, only arriving full-time in the winter alongside former stablemate Gabe Kidd. In an interview with "What Happened When," Connors and Finlay talked about how their signings came together a bit differently, with Connors jumping on board first while Finlay engaged in some more negotiating before making the jump.

"We got the 'All Elite' graphic at the same time, but I came in a little bit beforehand," Connors said. "I got pulled in. I was kind of helping out with Gabe at the start of the year...right at the end of January."

"Yeah, and I came in March," Finlay said. "I took a little longer playing the contract chess game with everybody. And then ended up with my boys in March."

Asked how they were enjoying their AEW stay so far, both Finlay and Connors went Siskel & Ebert in giving their experience two thumbs up. And while Finlay cited several different reasons for why he was having a great time, he and Connors both agreed that the increase in pay from their time in New Japan Pro Wrestling was a big plus.

"I like it," Finlay said. "It's pretty sick. You know, I get to kick a** and be with my boys. Different city twice a week. What's not to like? I get to mess with you on TV, make your life miserable. Life's good, there's nothing really to complain about.

"And the money," Connors said. "I like the money too. A lot of it."

"Yes," Finlay said. "AEW money is way better than New Japan money."

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit "What Happened When" and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription