Category: AEW

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!

Samoa Joe Returns On AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage

AEW’s latest episode of Dynamite delivered another unforgettable moment as Samoa Joe made his highly anticipated return to the company. The former ROH World Television Champion came to the aid of Hook, who found himself outnumbered after a disqualification victory over Christian Cage.

The chaos began when Hook’s match against Cage concluded, only for Kip Sabian and Nick Wayne to blindside the FTW Champion. The Patriarchy’s two-on-one assault left Hook at a serious disadvantage. Just when things were looking grim, the familiar strains of Samoa Joe’s theme music echoed through the arena, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Joe stormed the ring, clearing out Sabian and Wayne to even the odds and offer his assistance to the young champion.

Joe’s appearance marks his first in-ring return to AEW programming since July. His last match was the grueling Stampede Street Fight against Chris Jericho on Dynamite, after which Joe stepped away to focus on other projects. Fans of the hard-hitting veteran may recognize him from his role as Sweet Tooth in the Peacock streaming series Twisted Metal. While Will Arnett provided the voice for the character, Joe’s physical portrayal of the terrifying, ice cream truck-driving villain left a lasting impression in the show’s first season. Joe has reportedly been working on season two of the popular series in recent months.

Outside of his on-screen projects, Joe has continued to express enthusiasm for AEW’s growing roster and exciting matchups. In an earlier interview, he praised the company’s trajectory, highlighting the additions of top-tier talent like Will Ospreay and the return of Kenny Omega, who recently battled back from his struggles with diverticulitis. With the company expanding its talent pool and Joe back in action, the future looks bright for AEW fans.

Now that Samoa Joe has reinserted himself into the AEW landscape, fans are left wondering what’s next. Will this alliance with Hook evolve into something more? Or is Samoa Joe setting his sights on a larger prize? One thing’s for sure—his return has once again shaken things up in AEW, and the locker room better take notice.

AEW Dynamite ‘Maximum Carnage’ Preview 1/15/2025

Tonight’s AEW Dynamite: Maximum Carnage episode will air live on TBS beginning at 8:00 pm ET and live coast to coast on Max, from the Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio.

  • AEW World Championship: Jon Moxley (c) vs. Powerhouse Hobbs
  • Casino Gauntlet Match for a title shot at the AEW Women’s Championship at the Grand Slam Australia event on Saturday, February 15
  • The Hurt Syndicate (MVP, Shelton Benjamin and Bobby Lashley) vs. Mark Briscoe and AEW World Tag Team Champions Private Party (Marq Quen and Isiah Kassidy)
  • Kenny Omega vs. Brian Cage
  • We will hear from Ricochet
  • Christian Cage vs. Hook

Jeff Jarrett Discusses Final In-Ring AEW Contract, Plans Moving Forward

The wrestling world is bracing for an emotional wave of farewells as several veteran stars prepare to hang up their boots. Among them, WWE’s John Cena has already begun a heartfelt farewell tour, while NJPW legend Hiroshi Tanahashi has announced his retirement at Wrestle Kingdom 20 in January 2026. Adding to the list, AEW’s “Last Outlaw” Jeff Jarrett has confirmed that his latest contract with the promotion will mark the final chapter of his in-ring career.

Jeff Jarrett’s Final Run in AEW

Jeff Jarrett, a wrestling veteran whose career spans multiple decades and promotions, recently shared insights into his future on his podcast My World. While discussing his new AEW contract, Jarrett reflected on his decision to remain active in the ring a little longer, even as retirement loomed on the horizon.

“I am very grateful,” Jarrett said, recalling conversations with his family, including his wife Karen and their daughters, as well as close wrestling colleagues like Sonjay Dutt and Jay Lethal. “Do I keep going? Do I hang it up? Or do I head strictly 100% down the business path?”

Jarrett revealed that he initially wanted to pursue an AEW World Tag Team Championship run alongside Lethal. However, plans shifted, and he found himself competing for the Trios Tag Titles with Satnam Singh instead. Although Jarrett and Lethal have fallen short in multiple tag title attempts, the 56-year-old isn’t done yet. In fact, he’s eyeing the AEW World Championship as the ultimate prize to cap off his career.

“Jay [Lethal], among others, said, ‘Jeff, are you kidding me? Go out swinging.’ Either I’m gonna die trying or I’m going for it all, so I am really excited,” Jarrett declared.

A Season of Goodbyes

Jarrett’s retirement plans are part of a broader wave of farewells from iconic wrestlers across promotions. John Cena’s farewell tour has brought nostalgic moments to WWE fans, as he bids adieu to an illustrious career that redefined sports entertainment. Meanwhile, Hiroshi Tanahashi, the “Ace of New Japan,” is set to leave an indelible mark on the industry when he retires at Wrestle Kingdom 20.

For fans, this transitional period is bittersweet. These legends have provided decades of unforgettable matches and moments, but their retirement also signifies a new era in professional wrestling.

The Last Outlaw’s Legacy

As Jarrett moves toward his final curtain call, his ambition remains as fiery as ever. A run for the AEW World Championship would be a fitting way to conclude a career filled with innovation, reinvention, and resilience. Whether or not he captures gold, Jarrett’s contributions to the business—as both a performer and a promoter—will leave a lasting legacy.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on Jeff Jarrett’s final chapter, as well as more coverage on the retirement plans of wrestling’s biggest stars.

Credit “My World” Podcast

Darby Allin Steps Away from AEW to Conquer Mount Everest

Darby Allin, one of AEW’s most daring and unconventional stars, is taking a break from the ring, but not for rest or recovery. Instead, Allin is setting his sights on a new kind of challenge: climbing Mount Everest. After a brutal assault by the Death Riders on the December 27 episode of AEW Rampage, which left Allin battered and tossed down steel steps, the former TNT and World Tag Team Champion has been conspicuously absent from AEW programming. Now, reports shed light on his extended hiatus.

Preparing for Everest

According to Fightful Select, Allin is off the road and will remain away from AEW for an extended period to prepare for his ambitious climb of the world’s tallest mountain. While a return date hasn’t been officially confirmed, it’s believed Allin will be back in the spring.

Climbing Mount Everest is no small feat. Expeditions typically last six to ten weeks, depending on weather and acclimatization, and demand rigorous preparation, according to Benegas Brothers Expeditions. However, Allin’s extensive athletic training and fearless persona may give him an edge in accelerating the process.

This isn’t Allin’s first attempt at tackling Everest. His initial plans to summit the iconic peak earlier in 2024 were derailed after he suffered a broken foot during a match at AEW Dynamite: Big Business. Now, with recovery behind him, Allin is back on track to achieve this personal milestone.

Wrestling Plans on Hold

Allin’s last AEW match was a hard-fought draw against Ricochet in the Continental Classic’s Blue League during the December 25 episode of AEW Dynamite. Reports suggested that AEW had big plans for Allin following the tournament, including a potential push. While those plans are now delayed, fans can expect his eventual return to feature unfinished business—particularly with Jon Moxley and the Death Riders, who left him sidelined in storyline.

The Return of a Daredevil

Darby Allin has always embodied a fearless spirit, whether it’s diving off ladders in the ring or taking on extreme challenges outside of wrestling. While fans will miss his unique energy on AEW television, his Mount Everest expedition adds another layer to his larger-than-life persona.

As Allin sets his sights on the climb of a lifetime, anticipation will only grow for the day he returns to AEW, ready to pick up where he left off and, perhaps, conquer new heights in the ring as well.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on Darby Allin’s Everest journey and eventual AEW comeback!

AEW Collision Preview 1/11/2025

Tonight’s AEW Collision live on TNT and will be simulcast on Max from the Akins Ford Arena in Athens, GA.

  • Dax Hardwood vs. ROH World Champion Chris Jericho
  • “Rated R Superstar” Cope vs. Big Bill
  • AEW Women’s World Champion Mariah May vs. Harley Cameron
  • AEW World Trios Champion Pac vs. ROH World TV Champion Komander

Is Malakai Black Leaving AEW? Speculation Surrounds Former Trios Champion’s Future

The wrestling world is buzzing with rumors that former AEW World Trios Champion Malakai Black may be on his way out of All Elite Wrestling. A new report from Fightful Select suggests that Black might be finishing up with AEW, though no official confirmation has been made. This speculation comes despite earlier statements indicating Black’s AEW contract would run through 2027.

Contract Confusion

Black’s contract status has been the subject of intense discussion for months. According to Fightful, Black’s deal was initially reported to expire in early 2025, with additional option years built in. However, AEW President Tony Khan previously stated that Black was locked in until 2027, raising questions about whether an option year was declined or if Black sought an early exit.

Adding fuel to the fire, Black’s House of Black teammate Buddy Matthews recently faced Will Ospreay on AEW Dynamite. Following the match, Ospreay delivered a promo encouraging Matthews to aim for singles gold, even offering to stand in his corner if needed. Some fans saw this as a potential hint at a shake-up within the faction, though no direct mention of Black was made.

WWE Connection and Speculation

Rumors of Malakai Black returning to WWE have been swirling for some time, especially after Paul “Triple H” Levesque took over creative responsibilities in WWE. Black has publicly praised Triple H, and WWE is reportedly interested in bringing him back to the fold. His wife, Zelina Vega, is currently a prominent member of WWE’s Raw roster, which has only added to the speculation.

Back in September, similar rumors about Black’s AEW departure emerged but were ultimately debunked when he returned to AEW programming. As of now, Black is still listed on AEW’s official roster page, but Fightful noted they were unable to confirm whether his contract has been terminated, renewed, or altered in any way.

What’s Next for Malakai Black?

If Black does leave AEW, the move could have significant implications for both AEW and WWE. Black’s dark, enigmatic persona has been a standout feature of AEW programming, particularly as the leader of the House of Black. His potential departure could signal a shift in AEW’s roster dynamics and storylines. Meanwhile, a WWE return would mark an intriguing chapter in Black’s career, especially under Triple H’s creative direction.

For now, fans will have to wait and see how the story unfolds. Whether he stays with AEW or moves on, one thing is certain: Malakai Black remains one of the most compelling figures in professional wrestling today. Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on this developing story.

AEW Dynamite Preview 1/8/2025

AEW Dynamite air live tonight on TBS at 8:00 pm ET and live on Max coast to coast beginning at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT from the F&M Bank Arena in Clarksville, Tennessee.

  • AEW World Title No. 1 Contenders Match: Casino Gauntlet
  • Buddy Matthews vs. Will Ospreay
  • Bobby Lashley vs. Mark Briscoe
  • Kenny Omega returns live
  • Jeff Jarrett to appear
  • MJF to appear live