Category: AEW

AEW Collision Homecoming Preview 1/25/2025

AEW returns to Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida for tonight’s special Homecoming edition of AEW Collision on TNT and streaming on Max.

  • AEW International Championship: Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Katsuyori Shibata
  • Champion vs. Champion Match: AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada vs. ROH world TV Champion Komander (Non-Title)
  • TBS Championship #1 Contenders Match: Deonna Purrazzo vs. Queen Aminata vs. Yuka Sakazaki vs. Serena Deeb
  • Daniel Garcia, Daddy Magic & cool Hand Ang vs. Undisputed Kingdom (Adam Cole, Kyle O’Reilly, & Roderick Strong)
  • Gates of Agony vs. Buddy Matthews & Brody King
  • Big Bill vs. Powerhouse Hobbs
  • Mariah May and Toni Storm face-to-face
  • Samoa Joe vs. Nick Wayne

Malakai Black Reportedly Done With AEW, Can’t Appear At WWE Royal Rumble

After months of speculation surrounding his status, Malakai Black—known to WWE fans as Aleister Black and to independent wrestling followers as Tommy End—has reportedly wrapped up his time with AEW. According to a report from PWInsider, sources within AEW confirmed that Black has finished up with the promotion, with no plans for a farewell appearance.

This development comes after weeks of storyline hints suggesting Black’s exit from the House of Black faction, the dominant group he helped form and lead. While AEW has yet to make an official announcement, the report strongly suggests Black’s tenure with the company has quietly come to an end.

No WWE Return Just Yet

Naturally, rumors are swirling about a potential return to WWE, where Black had a memorable run in NXT as a former NXT Champion and Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic winner. However, PWInsider noted that Black won’t be available in time to make a surprise appearance at next week’s Royal Rumble. Instead, he’s expected to become a free agent sometime in February or March, giving him plenty of time to decide his next move.

For those keeping tabs on Black’s personal life, his wife, Zelina Vega, is still an active member of WWE’s roster, adding another layer of intrigue to his potential return to the company.

Speculation About His AEW Exit

Black’s departure has been the subject of fan discussion for some time, fueled in part by his uncharacteristic post-match display of emotion after facing Adam Cole in AEW. The two, who share a history from their time together in WWE’s NXT, shared what appeared to be a heartfelt moment following their match—a rare departure from Black’s usually stoic and dark character. This fueled questions about his status in AEW, with rumors suggesting his creative dissatisfaction and a shorter-than-expected contract were factors in his exit.

Black originally joined AEW in mid-2021 after being released by WWE earlier that year. Though his AEW debut came with significant fanfare, his time in the company saw limited singles action. In total, Black wrestled just 15 singles matches during his tenure, losing only three, but his creative focus was largely on the House of Black faction.

What’s Next for Malakai Black?

While it’s unclear where Black will land next, fans are already speculating about his potential future in WWE. With Triple H now at the helm of WWE’s creative direction, a return to the company could provide Black the opportunity to pick up where he left off and possibly revisit the more prominent role he had in NXT.

If he does return to WWE, Black’s dark and striking persona would be a perfect fit for the current landscape of the company’s storytelling, where characters like Bray Wyatt and The Judgment Day are thriving.

Whether he chooses WWE, the independent circuit, or another promotion entirely, one thing is certain: Malakai Black’s blend of in-ring skill and theatrical presence makes him one of wrestling’s most compelling talents. Fans will be eagerly awaiting his next move.

Sting Announces 2025 as His Final Year in Full Gear Appearances

Pro wrestling icon Steve Borden—better known to fans as the legendary Sting—has revealed that 2025 will mark the end of an era. The WWE Hall of Famer and multi-promotion superstar announced on social media that next year will be his final one appearing at conventions and fan events in his signature face paint and ring gear.

In a heartfelt post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sting addressed his decision, writing:

“I have enjoyed meeting fans at events around the world. As much as I have loved interacting with you all in the traditional Stinger war paint, I’ve decided that 2025 will be my last year appearing in full gear. I guess it’s 2025 or never. Wow. Tough to speak that out.”

https://twitter.com/Sting/status/1882529037870150122

Sting’s iconic look—complete with his black-and-white face paint, trench coat, and trademark baseball bat—has been a staple of his appearances for decades, both in the ring and during fan meet-and-greets. While the wrestling legend will continue to connect with fans in other ways, 2025 will be the last chance for attendees to see “The Icon” in his full Stinger persona.

A Legendary Career Comes to a Close

Sting officially hung up his boots in 2024, following an emotional retirement match at AEW Revolution in Greensboro, North Carolina. Teaming with his protégé Darby Allin, the duo defeated The Young Bucks in what was widely regarded as a fitting sendoff to the Stinger’s storied career.

His retirement in AEW capped off a remarkable comeback that many fans thought would never happen. Sting had seemingly been forced into retirement back in 2015 after a career-threatening neck injury during his brief stint in WWE. Despite those odds, the WCW legend found a way to end his in-ring career on his own terms, delivering one final run for the fans.

Initially brought into AEW to manage Darby Allin, Sting eventually returned to in-ring action in cinematic-style matches before building up to full-scale brawls and traditional matches. His AEW tenure even included a tag team title reign with Allin—a feel-good moment for fans who saw the two as a natural pairing. The pair’s title reign concluded with Sting retiring as champion, resulting in the titles being vacated.

Closing the Chapter

As Sting prepares to enter this new phase of his life, fans will undoubtedly cherish these final opportunities to interact with him in his classic gear. From his days as a WCW megastar to his unforgettable return in AEW, Sting has proven time and again why he’s regarded as one of the greatest in pro wrestling history.

2025 might be “now or never,” as Sting put it, but his legacy will endure far beyond his last face-painted appearance. Fans who have idolized “The Icon” for decades can look forward to celebrating his unparalleled career one final time next year.

AEW Dynamite Preview 1/22/2025

Tonight’s AEW Dynamite from the Knoxville Coliseum in Knoxville, Tennessee airs live on TBS at 8:00 pm ET and live coast to coast on Max.

  • AEW World Tag Team Championship: Private Party (c) Hurt Business (Bobby Lashley & Shelton Benjamin) w/MVP
  • Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay will have a face-to-face meeting
  • Samoa Joe vs. Nick Wayne of the Patriarchy
  • Julia Hart vs. Jamie Hayter
  • “Rated R Superstar” Cope vs. “Bastard” PAC

What’s Going on with Britt Baker in AEW? Sorting Fact from Fiction

As we previously reported, Baker’s days on AEW programming may have already come to an end. Speculation around Britt Baker’s status with AEW has been swirling ever since her last televised appearance in November 2024. Reports and rumors have suggested everything from backstage heat to Tony Khan being “fed up” with the former AEW Women’s World Champion. However, as often happens in the wrestling world, the truth seems to be far less dramatic than the headlines suggest.

Recent discussions on Wrestling Observer Radio with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez provided some clarity on Baker’s situation. According to Meltzer, while there may be some underlying truths to certain reports, the narrative has been “blown way out of proportion.”

The Backstage Buzz

The most talked-about rumor involves Baker’s alleged unpopularity backstage. Some reports claim she’s “wildly unpopular” in the women’s locker room and territorial about her position in AEW’s women’s division. Meltzer and Alvarez pushed back on this idea, noting that while Baker is indeed a polarizing figure, the claim that “nobody” likes her is simply false.

Alvarez explained how the story snowballed into something bigger than it actually is. According to him, it all started when Wade Keller briefly discussed Baker’s situation on his podcast. From there, other outlets began picking up the story and publishing increasingly exaggerated headlines, leading to rumors that Baker was “done” with AEW altogether.

Is Tony Khan “Fed Up” with Britt Baker?

Another major point of speculation is that Tony Khan has grown tired of Baker and has chosen to focus on other talents instead. While it’s true that Baker hasn’t been utilized recently, Alvarez noted that no one he spoke to within AEW indicated that Khan has written her off for good. Instead, it appears to be more of a creative decision, with no concrete explanation provided as to why Baker hasn’t been on TV.

Britt Baker’s Contract Status

Meltzer and Alvarez both confirmed that Baker remains under contract with AEW for “quite a while.” This dispels any rumors that her absence is tied to contract disputes or that she’s preparing to leave the company. According to Alvarez, “Nobody said she’s not coming back. It’s not like she’s never going to be used again.”

What’s Next for Britt Baker?

While her current absence has sparked plenty of debate, Britt Baker’s future in AEW is ultimately up to Tony Khan. For now, it seems the situation isn’t nearly as dire as some reports have made it out to be. As one of AEW’s cornerstone stars, Baker has played a pivotal role in establishing the women’s division since the company’s inception. Whether fans love or hate her, there’s no denying her impact.

It’s not uncommon for wrestlers to take a step back from TV, either to recharge creatively or to make room for other talent. With her contract still in place, it’s likely only a matter of time before we see the DMD back in action.

Final Thoughts

The wrestling rumor mill has a habit of taking a kernel of truth and turning it into a full-blown soap opera. While it’s clear that Britt Baker is a polarizing figure in AEW, the reports of widespread hatred or Tony Khan’s outright refusal to use her seem to be overblown.

For now, the best course of action is to wait and see what AEW has planned for Baker. Whether she returns as a babyface or a heel, it’s safe to say her next move will have the wrestling world talking once again.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for all the latest updates on Britt Baker, AEW, and the ever-evolving wrestling landscape!

Britt Baker’s AEW Future Reportedly in Question Amid Backstage Tensions

Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., a cornerstone of AEW since its inception, finds herself at the center of backstage drama once again. Despite being one of the most recognizable faces in the company, the latest reports suggest her time in AEW may be nearing an end.

On a recent episode of the PWTorch VIP podcast, wrestling journalist Wade Keller shed light on Baker’s standing within AEW’s locker room, claiming the dentist-turned-wrestler has faced increasing frustrations from colleagues and higher-ups. Keller noted that Baker is “wildly unpopular” with many of AEW’s women’s roster, though he acknowledged that some in the company might disagree with that assessment.

Is AEW Moving On from Britt Baker?

Keller suggested that Tony Khan might be considering phasing Baker out of AEW programming entirely, placing her in a similar category as other wrestlers who are no longer contacted for appearances. “She might be done with AEW,” Keller said, hinting at growing internal friction.

Reportedly, one factor contributing to Baker’s diminished presence on AEW television is her backstage altercation with Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) last year. The situation stemmed from Baker allegedly criticizing MJF’s lengthy match with Will Ospreay, a comment that made its way back to MJF via Alicia Atout. This led to a confrontation involving Ospreay and later escalated when Baker reportedly made disparaging remarks about Atout, prompting MJF to get involved. Following an internal investigation, Baker was reportedly suspended for her role in the incident.

Additionally, it’s believed that a minor backstage incident since the MJF altercation has further cast doubt on Baker’s value as a key player on AEW programming, leaving Khan to question whether keeping her on TV is worth the potential drama.

Britt Baker’s History of Controversy

This isn’t the first time Baker has faced issues behind the scenes. Her strained relationship with Thunder Rosa was well-documented on the short-lived reality show AEW All Access, where tensions between the two were a recurring theme. Keller further described Baker as having a reputation for being “fiercely territorial” about her position in AEW.

However, not all the challenges Baker faces stem from her professional relationships. Keller clarified that her recent absence has nothing to do with her break-up with former AEW star Adam Cole, which reportedly ended without animosity between the two.

Baker’s Commitment to AEW

Despite the drama, Baker has made her feelings about AEW clear in past interviews. She has expressed a genuine love for the company and a desire to elevate the women’s division, even as rumors about her behavior continue to circulate. While her passion for AEW appears sincere, the question now is whether the backstage environment—and AEW management—are willing to invest in her moving forward.

As AEW heads into another pivotal year, it remains to be seen whether Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., will continue to carve out a place in the company or if this chapter of her career is nearing its end. Fans will be watching closely to see what happens next for the inaugural AEW Women’s Champion.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for more updates on Britt Baker’s status and all things AEW!

Christopher Daniels Officially Retires From In-Ring Competition Following AEW Collision: Maximum Carnage

A legend in professional wrestling has officially hung up his boots. Christopher Daniels, known to fans as “The Fallen Angel,” has retired from in-ring competition effective immediately. The announcement comes after AEW’s special “Collision: Maximum Carnage” taping, where Daniels wrestled what is likely the final match of his storied career.

Daniels faced “Hangman” Adam Page in a brutal Texas Death Match taped at the Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. The highly anticipated match will air this Saturday on TNT and MAX, marking the end of a journey that has spanned over three decades.

Daniels’ Decision to Step Away

According to Fightful Select, Daniels had been contemplating retirement for some time. His decision to officially step away from wrestling comes after a recent resurgence in his in-ring career. Before this match, Daniels had been primarily focusing on his backstage role as AEW’s Head of Talent Relations, a position he continues to hold.

For much of 2023, Daniels also served as the Interim AEW Executive Vice President. He stepped into this role last May while Kenny Omega was recovering from injury. However, with Omega’s return at the Worlds End pay-per-view last month, Daniels stepped back from his executive duties to refocus on his backstage contributions and one last run in the ring.

A Career That Defined Generations

Christopher Daniels’ career is nothing short of legendary. From his beginnings on the independent circuit as the “King of Indies” to becoming one of the most versatile performers in promotions like ROH, NJPW, TNA, and AEW, Daniels has left an indelible mark wherever he wrestled.

Over the years, Daniels has captured countless championships, including top singles and tag team titles in multiple promotions. Notably, he was one-half of the inaugural ROH World Tag Team Champions alongside Donovan Morgan, helping to establish the tag division as a cornerstone of Ring of Honor’s success.

Daniels’ work in AEW has been equally impactful. As one of the company’s first signees in 2019, he was instrumental in building the foundation of the promotion both in the ring and behind the scenes. In addition to his responsibilities in talent relations, Daniels also played a significant role in ROH’s modern relaunch under Tony Khan’s ownership, including serving as a judge for the 2022 Pure Championship matches at Supercard of Honor XV and Final Battle.

What’s Next for The Fallen Angel?

While Daniels’ in-ring career has come to an end, his presence in AEW and the wrestling industry as a whole remains vital. As Head of Talent Relations, Daniels is expected to continue working closely with AEW and ROH rosters, helping guide the next generation of stars. His legacy as both a competitor and a mentor ensures that his influence on the industry will endure for years to come.

Fans can catch Christopher Daniels’ final match this Saturday during AEW Collision: Maximum Carnage. The Texas Death Match against Hangman Page is shaping up to be a fitting farewell for one of wrestling’s most respected veterans.

As the Fallen Angel steps away from the squared circle, the wrestling world celebrates a career defined by innovation, passion, and an unwavering love for the sport. Thank you, Christopher Daniels, for the memories and the magic.

AEW Collision ‘Maximum Carnage’ Preview 1/18/2025

AEW Collision ‘Maximum Carnage’ airing tonight on TNT, taped on Thursday night from the Andrew J Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio.

  • AEW Continental Championship Match: Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Tomohiro Ishii
  • Texas Death Match: Hangman Page vs. Christopher Daniels
  • The Death Riders & The Learning Tree vs. Cope, FTR, Powerhouse Hobbs & The Outrunners
  • Harley Cameron vs. Julia Hart
  • The Undisputed Kingdom (Adam Cole, Roderick Strong, and Kyle O’Reilly) vs. Shane Taylor Promotions (Lee Moriarty, Carlie Bravo, & Shawn Dean)
  • The Murder Machines (Brian Cage and Lance Archer) vs. Top Flight (Dante and Darius Martin)

Frustration Among AEW Talent Fuels Interest in WWE Amid Success of Former AEW Stars

It seems the grass might be greener on the other side for some All Elite Wrestling (AEW) talent. According to a report from Lucha Libre Online, a number of AEW wrestlers unhappy with their roles in the promotion are now viewing WWE as a more appealing option. This shift in attitude comes as more former AEW talent find success in WWE, with recent examples fueling speculation about potential moves.

Changing Perceptions of WWE

In the early years of AEW, many believed WWE wasn’t a viable destination for disgruntled talent. Concerns about being “lost in the shuffle” on WWE’s massive roster, coupled with its often-criticized corporate culture, made jumping ship seem unappealing. However, that perception is changing—especially after the notable success of former AEW stars in WWE.

The most recent example? Penta’s debut on RAW this past week, where he delivered a standout performance and defeated Chad Gable in an impressive match. Penta’s instant impact has reportedly given AEW wrestlers confidence that their time in AEW could serve as a strong resume when negotiating with WWE.

Success Stories Turning Heads

The report highlights other former AEW talent who have thrived in WWE, such as Ethan Page and Lexis King (formerly Brian Pillman Jr.). Both wrestlers had relatively quiet runs in AEW but have seen their stock rise since joining WWE. Ethan Page has become a key player in NXT, while Lexis King has been given a fresh start with a new persona that fans and WWE officials alike have embraced.

These success stories haven’t gone unnoticed by AEW’s roster, particularly those feeling underutilized or frustrated with their current roles. For many, the idea of a fresh start under WWE’s revamped management has become more enticing.

A Culture Shift in WWE

Another factor influencing AEW talent’s interest in WWE is the reported culture shift within WWE itself. Changes in management—stemming from Vince McMahon stepping back and Triple H taking a larger role in creative—have made the company more attractive. Under Triple H’s leadership, the creative direction is reportedly more talent-friendly, with increased focus on meaningful storylines and long-term character development.

This cultural change, combined with WWE’s global platform and financial stability, is making it a more viable option for wrestlers who may not feel creatively fulfilled in AEW.

What’s Driving the Frustration in AEW?

AEW’s rapid growth and star-studded roster have created an undeniable wealth of talent, but that has also led to challenges in ensuring everyone gets their moment in the spotlight. Wrestlers lower on the card—or those stuck in creative limbo—may feel overshadowed by the constant influx of new signings and the heavy focus on established stars like Kenny Omega, MJF, and Jon Moxley.

The frustrations reported by AEW talent are not uncommon in wrestling promotions with stacked rosters. However, the growing sentiment that WWE might offer greener pastures indicates that AEW could face retention challenges if these feelings persist.

What This Means for Wrestling Fans

The wrestling world is buzzing with possibilities. If more AEW talent make the jump to WWE, it could create fresh opportunities for dream matches and shake-ups on both rosters. For WWE, bringing in AEW alumni allows them to capitalize on the buzz surrounding AEW’s reputation for creating stars. For AEW, however, this trend could mean reevaluating how they manage and showcase their talent to prevent further departures.

As for fans, this growing talent pipeline between AEW and WWE only enhances the unpredictability of professional wrestling. With the free-agent market heating up, who knows which AEW stars might be Raw, SmackDown, or NXT-bound next?

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for more updates on this story and all the latest happenings in the wrestling world!

AEW Grand Slam: Australia Faces Scheduling Shake-Up Due to NBA All-Star Weekend

AEW’s highly anticipated Grand Slam: Australia 2025 event is set to make history as the promotion’s first major show in Australia, but its U.S. broadcast plans have hit a scheduling snag. During this week’s Dynamite, AEW announced that Grand Slam: Australia would air on Saturday, February 15, at 8 PM ET on TNT and Max. However, that time slot directly conflicts with TNT’s coverage of the NBA All-Star Saturday Night, one of the league’s biggest annual events and a cornerstone of the network’s sports programming.

This overlap left fans scratching their heads about how AEW’s international showcase would fit into such a packed night of sports entertainment.

AEW’s Solution: A Post-NBA Airing

According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, AEW has adjusted its broadcast strategy. Instead of competing directly with the NBA, Grand Slam: Australia will now air on TNT after the NBA coverage wraps up, giving the show a coveted lead-in from the massive All-Star audience.

While this plan offers significant exposure, it also means that Grand Slam: Australia will air at a very late time slot for U.S. viewers. The current plan would see the event begin at 2:30 AM Eastern time (technically early Sunday morning) and air on a tape delay, approximately 21 hours after it takes place in Melbourne. This unusual timing raises questions about how the show will perform in such a late-night spot.

Will Max Stream the Event Live?

One major question still unanswered is whether Warner Bros. Discovery’s streaming platform, Max, will air Grand Slam: Australia live. The report doesn’t confirm whether Max will simulcast the event as it happens or follow TNT’s delayed broadcast schedule. If Max offers a live streaming option, it could provide a much-needed alternative for fans who want to watch the event in real time without staying up into the early morning hours.

The Challenge of NBA All-Star Weekend

AEW’s decision to shift the broadcast comes as no surprise, given the massive viewership and importance of NBA All-Star Saturday Night. The event, which features fan-favorite competitions like the Slam Dunk Contest and Three-Point Contest, is a marquee attraction for TNT. Competing head-to-head with such a high-profile broadcast would have been a risky move for AEW.

By airing after the NBA coverage, Grand Slam: Australia will benefit from a built-in audience that may stick around for the wrestling action. However, the late airtime presents its own challenges, especially for East Coast viewers who may not stay up to watch.

A Big Night for Wrestling

February 15 is shaping up to be a busy night not only for sports but for professional wrestling as well. WWE’s NXT Vengeance Day 2025 is also scheduled to air that evening, adding even more competition to the mix. Wrestling fans will have to choose between WWE’s event, the live NBA festivities, and AEW’s delayed broadcast—or simply try to catch them all.

AEW’s Growing Global Presence

Despite the scheduling hurdles, Grand Slam: Australia is a significant milestone for AEW. The event reflects the company’s continued push to expand its global reach and bring AEW to fans around the world. With a unique setting and a roster full of stars, the event promises to deliver memorable moments, even if the broadcast logistics are less than ideal for U.S. audiences.

What’s Next?

As the broadcast date approaches, fans will be keeping a close eye on how AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery handle the logistics. Whether Max offers a live stream or TNT’s late-night airing becomes the primary option, the event will be a key test of AEW’s ability to adapt and deliver on the global stage.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on AEW Grand Slam: Australia 2025, as well as all the latest developments in the world of professional wrestling!