AEW has added another big name to its roster. Former TNA standout Ace Austin is now officially All Elite, signing with the company following his in-ring debut against Ricochet on this week’s episode of AEW Collision.
Austin parted ways with TNA back in May after six years with the promotion, as contract talks reportedly broke down without a new deal being reached. During his run, Austin built an impressive résumé, capturing the X-Division Championship three times and holding the TNA World Tag Team Titles. His final appearance for the company came in a loss to Mustafa Ali, putting over the reigning X-Division Champion before hitting the independent circuit.
Fast forward nearly three months later, Austin walked into AEW and was thrown straight into the spotlight against Ricochet. While the newcomer pushed the high-flying veteran to the limit, Ricochet ultimately sealed the win with his Spirit Gun finisher. Post-match, The Gates of Agony hit the ring and joined Ricochet in a beatdown of Austin, setting the tone for what could be the start of a new chapter — and new rivalries — for the former TNA star.
Though not shown on television, reports from the tapings revealed that AEW President Tony Khan made things official right after the match. Khan reportedly asked Austin if he was ready to be “All Elite,” to which Austin replied that while he’s been good for a while, he now feels it’s the right time to become elite.
With his mix of athleticism, charisma, and big-match experience, Ace Austin has all the tools to make an impact in AEW. Now the question is: how soon will he climb the ranks in his new home?
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