Josh Mathews Joins AEW in Backstage Role Following TNA Exit

AEW has welcomed another familiar face from the wrestling world into its growing backstage ranks. Josh Mathews, best known for his time as a WWE announcer and longtime TNA Wrestling commentator and producer, is now officially working behind the scenes for All Elite Wrestling.

The report, first noted by the Wrestling Observer, confirms Mathews’ new role within AEW, though the specifics of his position have yet to be revealed. However, it appears he’s already been spotted backstage at a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, signaling that his transition into the company is well underway.

Mathews’ move to AEW follows his recent departure from TNA Wrestling, where he spent over a decade in various capacities. Initially joining the promotion as a lead commentator, Mathews eventually shifted to a backstage producer role, helping shape the product from behind the camera. His time with TNA came to an end in February 2025, as part of a wider internal restructuring that saw several longtime staff members let go.

For fans who have followed Mathews’ journey, his arrival in AEW isn’t entirely surprising. Not only has he been a vocal supporter of the company in past interviews, but he also has a direct connection to the promotion — his wife, Madison Rayne, is an in-ring talent and coach within AEW’s women’s division. Mathews had previously expressed interest in AEW, though he admitted he appreciated the more relaxed pace of life working behind the scenes at TNA.

If Mathews is indeed stepping into a producer role — which many suspect — he’ll be joining a stacked lineup of veteran minds that includes Jerry Lynn, Dean Malenko, Chris Hero, Scotty 2 Hotty, Sarah Stock, and, of course, Rayne. With over two decades of experience spanning from his early WWE days as a Tough Enough contestant and backstage interviewer, to stints as a commentator and even an occasional wrestler, Mathews brings a well-rounded résumé to AEW’s already deep bench of wrestling minds.

AEW continues to build out its infrastructure with seasoned industry veterans, and the addition of Josh Mathews only strengthens its behind-the-scenes team as the company pushes forward into its next chapter.