Category: AEW

“Legit” Leyla Hirsch Set to Depart AEW as Contract Expires

Another name is hitting the free-agent market as “Legit” Leyla Hirsch is set to part ways with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). According to PWInsider Elite, Hirsch’s contract is set to expire at the end of February, and she has opted not to re-sign with the company. Since her deal is simply running out rather than being terminated, she will not be subject to a non-compete clause, meaning she’ll be free to wrestle elsewhere immediately.

Hirsch’s AEW Run: From Breakout Star to Injury Setback

Hirsch first appeared in AEW in 2020, making her debut on AEW Dark during the pandemic-era tapings at Daily’s Place. Her performances impressed AEW management, leading to a multi-year contract in March 2021. She quickly became a regular in the AEW women’s division, gaining traction throughout the year before entering a notable feud with Kris Statlander leading into Revolution 2022.

However, just as Hirsch’s momentum was building, an unfortunate injury derailed her career. In April 2022, she suffered a torn ACL during a dark match, which required surgery and sidelined her for over a year.

A New Chapter in ROH and What’s Next

When Hirsch finally returned in mid-2023, she found herself primarily competing in Ring of Honor (ROH) rather than AEW’s main roster. There, she delivered standout performances, including a Texas Death Match against Diamante at Death Before Dishonor 2024 and a title challenge against Red Velvet for the ROH Women’s World Television Championship at Final Battle. Her match at Final Battle ultimately marked her last appearance under the AEW/ROH umbrella.

Now, with her contract expiring, Hirsch is officially a free agent, opening the door for new opportunities across the wrestling world. Whether she finds a new home in another major promotion or hits the independent scene, one thing is certain—she brings experience, resilience, and a hard-hitting style wherever she goes.

AEW Dynamite Preview 2/26/2025

AEW Dynamite will air live tonight coast to coast on TBS and will also air live on Max from the Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California.

  • AEW International Championship: Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Orange Cassidy – Winner faces Kenny Omega at AEW Revolution
  • Trios Match: TNT Champion Daniel Garcia and FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) vs. Undisputed Kingdom (Adam Cole, Kyle O’Reilly and Roderick Strong)
  • We’ll hear from Swerve Strickland and Prince Nana
  • Bounty Match: Bryan Keith vs. Will Ospreay
  • Deonna Purrazzo vs. Harley Cameron
  • Hangman Adam Page will be in action
  • We’ll hear from MJF

“Speedball” Mike Bailey is AEW Bound—Debut Coming Soon

Another top-tier talent is making his way to All Elite Wrestling as “Speedball” Mike Bailey has officially been announced as the company’s latest signing. A video package aired during AEW Collision on Saturday, hyping the former TNA X-Division Champion as “coming soon” to the promotion.

Bailey’s Journey to AEW

Bailey’s reputation as one of the most exciting high-flyers in pro wrestling has been well-earned. Beyond his TNA success, he has made a significant impact on the independent scene and in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). His performance in the 2023 Best of the Super Juniors tournament turned heads, as he advanced all the way to the semi-finals before being eliminated.

According to Fightful Select, Bailey actually wrapped up his time with TNA in October 2024, leading to interest from both WWE and AEW. Negotiations were handled through an agent, but since his contract didn’t officially expire until the end of the year, his move wasn’t finalized immediately.

Visa Issues Delayed His AEW Arrival

Despite his free-agent status, Bailey’s AEW debut has taken longer than expected due to visa-related complications. Reports indicate that his visa is still in the approval process, which explains why AEW has not provided an exact date for his in-ring debut. However, with his signing now official, it’s only a matter of time before he steps into an AEW ring for the first time.

What’s Next for “Speedball” in AEW?

With AEW’s stacked roster, it will be interesting to see where Bailey fits into the mix. Given his background, he could make an immediate impact in the AEW International Championship scene, or perhaps find himself involved in the highly competitive tag team division. Regardless of where he lands, fans can expect fast-paced, hard-hitting action from the three-time X-Division Champion.

AEW has made a habit of bringing in top talent from around the world, and “Speedball” Mike Bailey is yet another exciting addition. Now, all eyes are on when and where he will make his official AEW debut.

Ryan Nemeth Files Lawsuit Against AEW, Tony Khan, and CM Punk Over Alleged Locker Room Incident

It looks like AEW’s backstage drama isn’t staying behind closed doors. Former AEW talent Ryan Nemeth has officially taken legal action against All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Tony Khan, and CM Punk, filing a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on February 14. The lawsuit includes multiple allegations, including assault, breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and intentional interference with prospective advantage.

According to Fightful, this legal battle appears to stem from a backstage incident on June 21, 2023, between Nemeth and CM Punk, who was still with AEW at the time. The situation reportedly escalated after Nemeth posted a tweet calling Punk “the softest man alive,” a comment Nemeth says was meant to bolster his heel persona. However, the tweet didn’t sit well with Punk, and the lawsuit claims the former AEW World Champion confronted Nemeth in the male talent locker room.

The lawsuit states that Punk aggressively approached Nemeth, allegedly saying, “Do we have a f*ing problem? Do we need to step outside and handle this like men?”** Nemeth asserts that he was cornered and attempted to defuse the situation. The following day, he allegedly reported the incident to AEW executives, but claims no disciplinary action was taken against Punk.

Nemeth Alleges Retaliation

After the confrontation, Nemeth’s issues with AEW seemingly worsened. The lawsuit states that AEW’s legal team informed him that he was being benched—something he believes was directly influenced by Punk. Despite his attempts to return to the ring, Nemeth claims he was repeatedly turned away. One notable incident occurred on August 12, 2023, when he arrived at an AEW event in Greensboro, North Carolina, only to be told by AEW official Pat Buck that he needed to leave the arena immediately. Travel was then arranged to send him home that same day.

Nemeth’s final AEW match took place on November 18, 2024, but by that point, CM Punk had already been fired. AEW terminated Punk’s contract in September 2023 following a physical altercation at AEW All In, marking the end of his tumultuous tenure with the company. Just two months later, Punk made his highly-publicized return to WWE at Survivor Series 2023.

Meanwhile, Ryan Nemeth has since moved on and currently competes alongside his brother, Nic Nemeth (fka Dolph Ziggler), in TNA Wrestling.

What’s Next?

This lawsuit brings yet another layer of controversy to AEW’s already rocky history with backstage altercations. While Punk has moved on to WWE and Nemeth has found a new home in TNA, this legal battle could shed more light on AEW’s handling of internal disputes. Will AEW respond publicly? Will Punk address the allegations? As the case unfolds, the wrestling world will be watching closely.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.

AEW Collision Preview 2/22/2025

AEW Collision tonight on TNT and Max, was taped on Thursday (Feb. 20) from Arizona Financial Theatre in Phoenix, AZ.

  • ROH World Championship: Chris Jericho (c) vs. Bandido
  • AEW World Trios Championships: Death Riders (PAC, Wheeler Yuta, & Claudio Castagnoli) (c) vs. Daniel Garcia, Cool Hand Ang & Daddy Magic
  • The Murder Machines (Lance Archer & Brian Cage) in action
  • Gabe Kidd vs. The Butcher
  • Max Caster’s open challenge
  • Hologram vs. The Beast Mortos
  • Julia Hart vs. Queen Aminata
  • Harley Cameron to speak

Rumors Of Josh Alexander Choosing AEW Over WWE – It’s all About The Money

Former TNA World Champion Josh Alexander is one of the hottest free agents in professional wrestling right now, and it looks like he’s made his decision. While rumors have been swirling that The Walking Weapon is heading to AEW instead of WWE, nothing has been officially confirmed—yet. However, Dave Meltzer shed some light on the situation during a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, confirming two key details about Alexander’s next move.

According to Meltzer, Alexander has already made his decision, and it ultimately came down to whoever offered the best deal financially. “His TNA contract is up, and obviously, he was going to go to AEW or WWE, and it looks like AEW,” Meltzer said. “The two things I do know is, number one, he has decided where he’s going, and number two, it’s to whoever the highest bidder was for him.”

While some fans will inevitably be disappointed no matter where Alexander ends up—because, let’s face it, wrestling fandom can get pretty tribal—this was a business decision. Alexander prioritized what was best for his family, and whoever put the biggest offer on the table is where he’s going.

Though financial details haven’t been revealed, Alexander’s deal with AEW (assuming that’s where he lands) could be a major payday, thanks in part to wrestling agent Barry Bloom. Bloom has helped negotiate major contracts for top stars like Kenny Omega, Kazuchika Okada, and Will Ospreay—each of whom has secured lucrative deals with AEW in the last two years. If Alexander is in that same category, he could be cashing in big-time.

With AEW continuing to bolster its roster with world-class talent, adding Alexander would be another major win for Tony Khan’s promotion. Now, fans just have to wait for the official announcement—and see how WWE responds.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for more updates on Josh Alexander’s next move!

Former TNA World Champion Josh Alexander is one of the hottest free agents in professional wrestling right now, and it looks like he’s made his decision. While rumors have been swirling that The Walking Weapon is heading to AEW instead of WWE, nothing has been officially confirmed—yet. However, Dave Meltzer shed some light on the situation during a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, confirming two key details about Alexander’s next move.

According to Meltzer, Alexander has already made his decision, and it ultimately came down to whoever offered the best deal financially. “His TNA contract is up, and obviously, he was going to go to AEW or WWE, and it looks like AEW,” Meltzer said. “The two things I do know is, number one, he has decided where he’s going, and number two, it’s to whoever the highest bidder was for him.”

While some fans will inevitably be disappointed no matter where Alexander ends up—because, let’s face it, wrestling fandom can get pretty tribal—this was a business decision. Alexander prioritized what was best for his family, and whoever put the biggest offer on the table is where he’s going.

Though financial details haven’t been revealed, Alexander’s deal with AEW (assuming that’s where he lands) could be a major payday, thanks in part to wrestling agent Barry Bloom. Bloom has helped negotiate major contracts for top stars like Kenny Omega, Kazuchika Okada, and Will Ospreay—each of whom has secured lucrative deals with AEW in the last two years. If Alexander is in that same category, he could be cashing in big-time.

With AEW continuing to bolster its roster with world-class talent, adding Alexander would be another major win for Tony Khan’s promotion. Now, fans just have to wait for the official announcement—and see how WWE responds.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for more updates on Josh Alexander’s next move!

AEW Grand Slam: Australia 2/15/2025 (Results)

AEW Grand Slam: Australia Quick Results:

  • Will Ospreay & Kenny Omega defeated The Don Callis Family (Kyle Fletcher & Konosuke Takeshita)
  • AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Mone (c) defeated Harley Cameron
  • Brisbane Brawl: Jay White and “The Rated R Superstar” Cope vs. Death Riders (Jon Moxley & Claudio Castagnoli) defeated :Rated R Superstar” Cope & Jay White by referee stoppage
  • AEW Continental Championship: Kazuchika Okada (c) defeated Buddy Matthews
  • AEW Women’s World Championship: “Timeless” Toni Storm defeated Mariah May (c) to become the new AEW Women’s World Champion

AEW’s latest event delivered blockbuster action, dramatic title defenses, and major challenges set for Revolution. From Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay picking up a huge tag win to Toni Storm reclaiming her spot atop the AEW women’s division, here’s a full breakdown of all the chaos from the night.

Kenny Omega & Will Ospreay Take Down The Callis Family

Kenny Omega is still recovering from his diverticulitis battle, and The Callis Family knew exactly how to exploit it. Konosuke Takeshita & Kyle Fletcher targeted Omega’s midsection throughout the match, forcing Will Ospreay to step in as the protector. But even with the odds against him, The Best Bout Machine still had plenty of fight left.

The final moments saw Omega turn the tide, dropping low to drive Takeshita’s face into the turnbuckle. With Fletcher neutralized outside—thanks to a stunning Ospreay springboard dive—the path was clear for a spectacular finish. Omega lifted Takeshita for the One-Winged Angel, and Ospreay flew in from the top rope for a devastating Hidden Blade-assisted One-Winged Angel combo. Omega pinned Takeshita for the win.

After the match, Omega officially challenged Takeshita for the AEW International Championship at Revolution, while Ospreay set his sights on revenge, demanding a steel cage match against Fletcher.

Mercedes Moné Retains, But Momo Watanabe Lurks

TBS Champion Mercedes Moné defended her title against Harley Cameron, but the match had an unexpected guest: Momo Watanabe, who sat front row with a championship shot of her choosing after winning the International Women’s Cup at Wrestle Dynasty.

The mind games started early, with Harley using her infamous Mercedes puppet as a distraction. That only angered Moné, who stomped it out of existence. The match turned into a back-and-forth battle, with Harley nearly scoring an upset after a crossbody and an Australian Destroyer. But Moné regained control with a powerbomb and meteora, only for Cameron to keep fighting, nearly stealing the win with a crucifix pin and sunset flip bomb.

Ultimately, Moné capitalized on a missed flipping senton, hitting the Moné Maker to retain her title. On her way out, she made a bold statement—pie-facing Watanabe with the championship belt—hinting at a future showdown.

Moxley & Claudio Survive Brisbane Brawl Thanks to Yuta’s Interference

The Brisbane Brawl was an all-out war between Jon Moxley & Claudio Castagnoli and the team of Adam Copeland & Jay White. White nearly secured victory after hitting a Blade Runner on Claudio, but Wheeler Yuta stormed in, whipping White with a belt to break the pin.

The chaos only escalated from there—Copeland speared Claudio through a table, followed by a spear to Moxley. He even went for a barbed wire chair conchairto, but Yuta snatched the weapon away just in time. That distraction allowed Marina Shafir to smash Copeland with a title briefcase, setting up Claudio’s Neutralizer. Copeland still kicked out.

Moxley locked in a bulldog choke, and with Yuta choking out White on the outside, Copeland passed out, giving The Death Riders the win. But Mox wasn’t done—he reapplied the choke post-match, further damaging Copeland’s neck.

Okada Retains After Controversial Tactics Against Buddy Matthews

AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada defended against Buddy Matthews in a match that nearly rewrote history. Midway through, Matthews became the first man in AEW to ever kick out of Okada’s Rainmaker. That set the stage for an intense closing stretch.

With the champion rattled, Okada attempted to use the title belt as a weapon, but the referee intervened. That opened the door for Matthews, who nearly stole the win with a roll-up, a curb stomp, and a pumphandle Death Valley Driver.

In the final moments, Matthews hit a superplex and a jackhammer suplex, but Okada refused to stay down. Sensing danger, Okada shoved the referee aside and hit a sneaky mule kick to Matthews, followed by a Rainmaker to retain his title. A controversial ending to an otherwise incredible match.

AEW Announces the International Championship Series

AEW revealed an International Championship Series to determine the next challenger for Konosuke Takeshita’s AEW International Championship:

  • Orange Cassidy vs. Roderick Strong will take place on Dynamite.
  • The winner faces Takeshita the following week for the title.
  • Whoever wins that match advances to face Kenny Omega at Revolution for the championship.

The stakes couldn’t be higher, and with Omega, Takeshita, Cassidy, and Strong in the mix, fans are in for an exciting road to Revolution.

Toni Storm Dethrones Mariah May in Emotional Title Fight

In an emotional and hard-fought battle, “Timeless” Toni Storm reclaimed the AEW Women’s World Championship from Mariah May in a match filled with high-risk moments and near-falls.

Mariah unleashed everything, hitting a Mayday Driver on the floor, followed by a shotgun dropkick and running hip attack. But Storm turned the tables, countering with a Mayday Driver of her own before delivering multiple hip attacks and a Storm Zero piledriver—only for Mariah to miraculously kick out.

Desperate to put Storm away, May hit two consecutive Mayday Drivers, but Storm refused to stay down. The champion nearly secured the win again after a headbutt and another piledriver, but as she went for one final Mayday, Storm reversed into a shocking roll-up to snatch the victory.

After months of tension and admiration, Storm proved she was still the true leading lady of AEW.

Final Thoughts

With Kenny Omega vs. Takeshita, Ospreay vs. Fletcher in a cage, and AEW’s International Championship Series unfolding, AEW is setting up a must-see road to Revolution.

Meanwhile, Toni Storm’s return to the top, Mercedes Moné’s next challenger looming, and Moxley’s ruthless assault on Copeland leave plenty of unanswered questions heading into Dynamite.

AEW Grand Slam Australia 2/15/2025 – AEW ROH Global Wars Australia

AEW Grand Slam Australia will air on TNT and stream on Max Saturday night immediately after NBA All-Star Saturday Night from the Brisbane Entertainment Centre – Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

  • AEW Women’s World Championship: Mariah May (c) vs. “Timeless” Toni Storm
  • AEW Continental Championship: Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Buddy Matthews
  • AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Mone (c) vs. Harley Cameron
  • Will Ospreay and Kenny Omega vs. The Don Callis Family (Kyle Fletcher and Konosuke Takeshita)
  • Brisbane Brawl: Jay White and “The Rated R Superstar” Cope vs. Death Riders (Jon Moxley and Claudio Castagnoli)

AEW will also be taping an event called AEW ROH Global Wars Australia: There’s no word on when fans who won’t be at Brisbane Entertainment Center will be able to see Global Wars 

  • The Learning Tree (Chris Jericho, Big Bill & Bryan Keith) vs. Bandido & The Outrunners (Turbo Floyd & Truth Magnum)
  • ROH Women’s World Championship: Athena (c) vs. Alex Windsor
  • ROH World Tag Team Championship: Dustin Rhodes & Sammy Guevara (c) vs. MxM Collection (Mason Madden & Mansoor)
  • ROH Pure Championship: Lee Moriarty (c) vs. Robbie Eagles

AEW Dynamite Preview 2/12/2025

AEW Dynamite tonight on TBS as the build continues for Saturday’s Grand Slam Australia. Dynamite was taped on Tuesday in Cedar Park, Texas at HEB Center.

  • AEW World Tag Team Championship: The Hurt Syndicate (c) vs. The Gunns
  • AEW World Trios Championship: Death Riders (c) vs. The Undisputed Kingdom
  • MJF vs. Dustin Rhodes (presented commercial free)
  • Kris Statlander vs. Penelope Ford
  • Max Caster’s Open Challenge
  • Megan Bayne in action
  • We’ll hear from “Rated R Superstar” Cope

Malakai Black, Ricky Starks And Miro Depart AEW: What’s Next for These Stars?

The wrestling world has seen a wave of roster shake-ups lately, and AEW is no exception. Following a series of WWE releases, it has now been confirmed that three notable AEW names—Miro, Malakai Black, and Ricky Starks—are no longer with the company. Even more intriguing, they are free to sign and compete anywhere immediately, as their contracts do not include non-compete clauses.

According to Fightful Select, AEW removed all three from its official roster page on Monday, signaling their official departure. Let’s break down the situation for each of these now-former AEW stars.

Malakai Black’s Unexpected Exit

Black’s AEW run seemed poised for longevity, with AEW President Tony Khan previously suggesting his contract could keep him with the company until 2027. However, reports indicate that Black was actually finished with AEW as early as January—well before the Royal Rumble. AEW has already adjusted creatively, repackaging Brody King, Buddy Matthews, and Julia Hart from the House of Black into a new stable, the Hounds of Hell.

Given Black’s reputation as a unique in-ring performer and storyteller, speculation will likely swirl about a potential WWE return—especially considering his past as Aleister Black and his connections in the company.

Miro’s AEW Run Fizzles Out

Once one of AEW’s most dominant forces, Miro had been missing from action for quite some time. Despite being healthy, he wrestled only a handful of matches in 2023 and had not been included in creative discussions for at least six months. Reports indicate that Miro actually requested his release back in September, which means his exit may have been in the works for a while.

Originally signing a long-term contract extension in 2022, Miro was expected to remain with AEW until 2026. However, his absence from TV and lack of creative direction made his departure seem inevitable. Now, the question is whether Miro—formerly known as Rusev in WWE—will head back to his old stomping grounds or explore opportunities elsewhere.

Ricky Starks: A Frustrated Star Moves On

Perhaps the most surprising departure is Ricky Starks, who had long been considered a rising star in AEW. According to reports, Starks asked AEW not to pick up his contract’s option year in late 2023. However, AEW did the opposite—exercising the option but then not utilizing him on TV.

Starks reportedly requested his release in January, and his situation was further complicated when he was pulled from GCW events due to backstage friction. Despite this, Starks managed to make headlines over the weekend by winning the DEFY World Championship from KENTA just before his AEW release became public.

What’s Next?

With no contractual restrictions holding them back, Miro, Black, and Starks have the freedom to appear anywhere at any time. Could we see one—or all—of them make surprise appearances in WWE, NJPW, or even TNA? The industry is wide open, and their next moves will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and promoters alike.

For now, one thing is certain: AEW’s landscape continues to shift, and these departures could lead to major shake-ups across the wrestling world.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!