AEW Dynamite Preview 5/21/2025

AEW Dynamite airs live tonight on TBS and Max from the Rio Rancho Events Center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

  • MJF’s official contract signing into The Hurt Syndicate
  • Mercedes Moné face and Jamie Hayter will go face-to-face
  • Will Ospreay and “Hangman” Adam Page will go face-to-face
  • Mina Shirakawa vs Julia Hart (“Timeless” Toni Storm on Commentary)
  • All Star Trios Match: Jon Moxley and Young Bucks vs. Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs and Swerve Strickland

Saraya Speaks Out After Fan Reportedly Tried to Kiss Her at Autograph Signing

Former AEW and WWE star Saraya is calling out inappropriate fan behavior after a disturbing incident at a recent autograph signing, where a fan reportedly tried to kiss her without consent.

The incident occurred on Saturday during a public meet-and-greet. Saraya took to Twitter shortly after to express her anger and frustration, writing:

“Crazy I have to say this but. If you come to my signings… please don’t try to kiss me anywhere. Especially ON MY MOUTH. He wasn’t able to because I moved. But Jesus f**king Christ.”

The post quickly went viral, resonating with fans and fellow wrestlers alike, many of whom voiced support for Saraya and condemned the fan’s behavior. The moment has reignited ongoing conversations in the wrestling world about respecting personal boundaries, especially during fan interactions like signings and conventions.

While most fans who attend these events are respectful and appreciative, this situation highlights a persistent issue — particularly for women in the industry — where personal space is too often disregarded. Wrestling may blur lines between characters and real life, but there’s no excuse for violating someone’s autonomy and safety.

Saraya, who has been a high-profile presence in both AEW and WWE, is no stranger to public scrutiny and has long been vocal about setting boundaries with fans. This latest incident only reinforces the importance of wrestlers — and promotions — taking stronger stances on safe fan engagement protocols.

Let this serve as a reminder: admiration does not grant permission. Respect wrestlers as performers and as people — and when you’re at a signing, keep your hands, and lips, to yourself.

AEW Star Darby Allin Successfully Reaches Mt. Everest Summit

Darby Allin may be thousands of miles away from the AEW ring, but he’s just taken a massive step toward making his long-awaited return to the company — by literally standing on top of the world.

The former TNT Champion has officially reached the summit of Mount Everest, according to updates from the online log tracking his journey. Allin began the dangerous climb in April, and as of yesterday, he and his team have successfully made it to the top of the world’s highest peak. Now comes the equally treacherous descent — and then, eventually, a return to AEW.

Allin was the only first-time climber in his group, making this accomplishment even more remarkable. However, the climb hasn’t been without consequence to his wrestling career. Originally, he was slated to return to AEW in time for the 2024 Owen Hart Cup, but delays in his Everest expedition forced him to miss the tournament entirely. That means fans will have to wait a bit longer for the next chapter in his simmering feud with AEW World Champion Jon Moxley.

Allin’s last appearance on AEW television came in December, when he was violently written off programming — thrown down a flight of stairs by Moxley’s Deathriders faction. The brutal exit was designed to give Allin time to prepare for Everest, but it also left unfinished business between him and the champion.

With Allin out of the Owen Hart Cup, the tournament’s spotlight has shifted to its final matchup between Will Ospreay and Hangman Page. The two will clash at Double or Nothing on May 25 in Glendale, Arizona, with the winner earning a title shot against Moxley at All In: Texas on July 12 at Globe Life Field in Arlington.

As for Allin, there’s still no confirmed date for his AEW return — and it remains to be seen how the physically demanding expedition might affect his in-ring readiness. But if there’s one thing Darby Allin has made clear, it’s that he doesn’t shy away from a challenge — whether it’s a 29,000-foot mountain or Jon Moxley waiting for him at the top of AEW.

AEW Collision ‘Beach Break’ Preview 5/17/2025

AEW Collision ‘Beach Break’ airs Saturday night on TNT and Max, beginning at 8:00 pm ET taped from the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.

  • A Tribute to Steve “Mongo” McMichael – with Ric Flair
  • AEW World Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Match: CRU vs. ROH World Tag Team Champions Dustin Rhodes & Sammy Guevara
  • Kyle Fletcher vs. AR Fox
  • Anna Jay vs. Megan Bayne
  • Blake Christian vs. “Speedball” Mike Bailey
  • Chicago Street Fight: Bryan Keith & Big Bill vs. Gates of Agony

Jim Ross Diagnosed with Colon Cancer, Set for Surgery in Coming Weeks

Wrestling legend and iconic commentator Jim Ross has announced he’s once again facing a battle with cancer. In a heartfelt update posted to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Ross revealed that he was diagnosed with colon cancer earlier this week and is preparing to undergo surgery within the next two weeks. The AEW announcer also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans during this difficult time.

This marks the second time Ross has had to confront cancer. In 2021, he revealed a skin cancer diagnosis, which led to successful treatment but left lingering side effects that continued to impact him for years. Despite those health challenges, Ross remained an enduring presence in professional wrestling, especially through his work with All Elite Wrestling.

Most recently, “Good Ol’ JR” was part of the commentary team at AEW Dynasty in April. While his appearances have become more sporadic in recent years, Ross has remained a valued part of AEW’s broadcast team, especially for high-profile pay-per-view events. His voice—familiar, passionate, and unmistakably authentic—has long been a staple of pro wrestling history.

Jim Ross joined AEW in 2019, lending his gravitas and decades of experience to the upstart promotion from its inception. But his legendary career started well before AEW was ever conceived. Ross began in the industry in the mid-1970s, initially working as a referee before moving behind the commentary desk. He made his name in Jim Crockett Promotions, which eventually became WCW, and by the early ’90s, Ross had become one of the most respected voices in the business.

In 1993, Ross made his WWE debut at WrestleMania IX and soon became the voice of a generation during the company’s Attitude Era. Known for his emotional storytelling, iconic catchphrases, and no-nonsense delivery, JR’s commentary was instrumental in elevating some of the biggest moments and stars in WWE history. Though his tenure with Vince McMahon’s company included several ups and downs, Ross remained a cornerstone of WWE television until his departure in 2013.

Following WWE, Ross took his talents overseas to provide English commentary for NJPW before returning for a short WWE stint, eventually finding a new home in AEW.

As Ross prepares for surgery and takes time to focus on his health, the wrestling world is rallying around him once again. His legacy is cemented, but fans and colleagues alike are hoping this Hall of Fame-caliber voice has many more chapters left to tell.

Wrestling News Blog sends their best to Jim Ross—wishing him strength, healing, and a swift recovery.

AEW Dynamite ‘Beach Break’ 5/14/2025

AEW Dynamite ‘Beach Break’ airs live tonight on TBS and Max, beginning at 8:00 pm ET from the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.

  • AEW World Championship – Steel Cage Match: Jon Moxley (c) vs. Samoa Joe
  • AEW Women’s World Championship Eliminator Match: Toni Storm (c) vs. Mina Shirakawa vs. Skye Blue vs. AZM
  • Will Ospreay and Hangman Adam Page vs. Don Callis Family’s Konosuke Takeshita and Josh Alexander
  • Ricochet vs. Zach Gowen
  • Bobby Lashley will give his answer to MJF

Jake “The Snake” Roberts Undergoes Successful Heart Surgery

Wrestling legend Jake “The Snake” Roberts is on the mend after undergoing successful heart ablation surgery—and if all goes well, he could be back on the road with fans before the month is out.

The WWE Hall of Famer and current AEW personality had the procedure on May 13 to address an irregular heartbeat. Roberts, who also manages chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), discovered the arrhythmia earlier this year while hospitalized for pneumonia. He first mentioned the issue on a February episode of his podcast The Snake Pit, saying:

“I got a problem with my ticker. But by going in, I caught it, and we got to go have a couple of procedures done, and it’ll be all hunky dory then.”

The heart ablation procedure—commonly used to correct arrhythmias by targeting problematic heart tissue—appears to have gone smoothly. His wife, Cheryl Roberts, shared the good news via Instagram shortly after the surgery, noting that Jake was already making strong progress and expected to be discharged soon. She added that following a week of recovery, Roberts plans to resume traveling and appearances.

Jake himself later chimed in with his own post-op update, letting fans know he’s doing well and eager to get back out there. His next scheduled appearance is at Iron City Comic Con in Birmingham, Alabama on May 31 and June 1, and all signs point to Roberts being ready to go for the event.

It’s nothing short of remarkable given Roberts’ past health battles and storied personal journey, and even more so considering he turns 70 later this month. As always, “The Snake” continues to prove he’s one of the toughest icons in wrestling history.

AEW to Honor Steve “Mongo” McMichael at Beach Break with Ric Flair in Attendance

AEW is set to pay tribute to the late Steve “Mongo” McMichael during the upcoming AEW Collision: Beach Break special, and the occasion will be made even more meaningful with the presence of McMichael’s longtime friend and fellow Four Horsemen legend, Ric Flair.

McMichael, who passed away in April at the age of 67 following a lengthy battle with ALS, left a lasting impact both on the football field and in the world of pro wrestling. AEW confirmed during this week’s Collision that a special tribute segment will air as part of next Saturday’s Beach Break broadcast, which will take place in McMichael’s hometown of Chicago.

Flair, who wrestled alongside McMichael during their time in WCW as members of the iconic Four Horsemen stable, will be in the building to pay his respects. Following McMichael’s passing, Flair posted an emotional tribute on social media, calling him “an amazing friend and athlete.” Their friendship extended far beyond the ring, and Flair’s involvement in the upcoming tribute ensures it will be as heartfelt as it is historic.

Before stepping into the squared circle, McMichael carved out a legendary career in the NFL — including a Super Bowl win with the Chicago Bears. He later made the jump to professional wrestling in 1995, becoming a regular presence on WCW Monday Nitro and eventually competing in matches from 1996 to 1999. Known for his charisma, toughness, and unmistakable swagger, McMichael became one of WCW’s most memorable crossover stars.

AEW Collision: Beach Break will be taped on April 14 — the same day as AEW Dynamite — and will air on Saturday, April 17. The show is already shaping up to be an emotional and action-packed night, with the returns of Skye Blue and Zach Gowen already confirmed. Now, the inclusion of a tribute to one of wrestling’s most unique figures adds a powerful dose of legacy to the card.

Fans in Chicago — and across the wrestling world — will no doubt be tuning in to remember Mongo and the mark he left on both sports and sports entertainment.

Skye Blue Announces She Will Return at AEW Beach Break: “I’m Back, and I’m a Violent Little Thing”

After months of speculation and silence, Skye Blue is officially on her way back to AEW — and she’s coming home to do it.

During Thursday’s episode of AEW Collision, Blue made a surprise appearance via video package following the hard-hitting bout between Kris Statlander and Willow Nightingale. The vignette, set to a moody, defiant tone, featured a montage of Blue dishing out punishment in the ring — from her signature Code Blue finisher to powerbombs, superkicks, and her Dragon Sleeper submission. It ended with a clear message and a chilling smile from the Chicago native herself:

“Next week, Beach Break. AEW is back in Chicago, and so am I. I’m back, and I’m a violent little thing.”

It was the kind of return tease that immediately grabbed attention — both for its timing and the edge in Blue’s voice. It also brings to an end a lengthy absence from in-ring action. Blue has been on the sidelines since suffering a broken ankle during a match against Hikaru Shida on the July 20, 2024 episode of Collision. The match had to be stopped due to the severity of the injury, and Blue has been rehabbing ever since.

Fans had been hopeful for a return earlier this year, especially after reports in February suggested she was close to being cleared. But AEW played it close to the vest, with no official timeline until now.

AEW Dynamite: Beach Break already promises to be a stacked card with the return of Zach Gowen and a potential showdown between him and Ricochet, and now Skye Blue’s homecoming adds another layer of anticipation. Given the tone of her promo, it looks like Blue is coming back with a much more aggressive edge — and she’s not here to just blend into the background.

Will this be a new chapter for Skye Blue as a major player in the AEW women’s division? Or will her return simply mark the beginning of another uphill battle? One thing’s for sure — next week in Chicago, all eyes will be on the “violent little thing.”

Are you ready for Skye Blue 2.0?

Zach Gowen Makes Surprising TV Return After 22 Years on AEW Collision, Set for In-Ring Clash With Ricochet Next Week On Dynamite: Beach Break

Pro wrestling fans were in for a nostalgic shock during this week’s AEW Collision as Zach Gowen — yes, that Zach Gowen — made his first national TV appearance in over two decades. For many, it was a “blink and you’ll miss it” moment, but longtime fans of the early 2000s WWE era instantly recognized the one-legged wrestling pioneer in the crowd. And his presence wasn’t just for show — it was a set-up for something much more personal.

Gowen, who famously competed in WWE, TNA, and the original Ring of Honor, was spotted ringside during the show. Things took a dramatic turn after Ricochet’s match with Angelico. The high-flyer, fresh off a heel turn, took a detour into villainy by taunting Gowen — first with some feigned admiration, then turning full-blown disrespectful.

After mocking Gowen’s legacy, Ricochet escalated the situation by assaulting security and attempting to cut one of their hair. That’s when Gowen had seen enough. He stepped into the ring and stood his ground, even getting a few shots in on Ricochet. But the feel-good moment turned brutal when Ricochet targeted Gowen’s leg, ultimately removing his prosthetic limb in a symbolic (and shocking) act of dominance.

Following the segment, Gowen took to social media to reflect on his return to the spotlight.

“I haven’t been on a national TV wrestling program in 22 years. Thank you to those that remembered me!!! I haven’t forgotten about y’all either,” he wrote. “The magic of professional wrestling is still very much alive in my soul and I’m so grateful I get to share that once again 🙏.”

The good news? This wasn’t just a one-off nostalgia spot. AEW has confirmed that Gowen will make his official in-ring debut for the promotion next week on Dynamite: Beach Break, where he’ll square off against Ricochet in what’s shaping up to be a must-see clash.

It’s a rare chance for fans to see a full-circle moment — the return of a unique talent who broke barriers, now entering a new chapter with a chip on his shoulder and a chance to shut down one of AEW’s most dangerous new villains.