Tony Khan has a lot of optimism when it comes to AEW’s future, both in television and in ever-changing streaming world.

Speaking to Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez of The Wrestling Observer, the AEW President shared his enthusiasm in the possibility of AEW PPVs finding itself under the umbrella of the new Venu Sports venture. Venu Sports is the forthcoming sports streaming service that will showcase Fox, Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery possibily teaming up for a super channel. Khan called it a “really exciting opportunity.”

“I think (Venu Sports) could be something we could be part of and it’s a really interesting conversation. That’s a whole new conversation and that’s a new world.”

Right now, Khan and AEW have found a PPV home on Triller TV with Forbidden Door airing on the service Sunday evening. Triller also is hosting the older PPVs of AEW, something that has been in great demand for fans.

RELATED: Tony Khan Notes Networks Would Kill For AEW TV Numbers

Tony Khan Praises WBD CEO David Zaslav

While Tony Khan states he’s excited for the future with AEW and WBD, he reaffirms the relationship he has with WBD CEO David Zaslav. Khan even goes as far as to say Zaslav shows as much support for pro wrestling as Ted Turner once did with WCW.

“I don’t think that Warner Bros has had such a hands-on boss who has overseen a studio like this since Ted Turner was here at TNT and TBS like we have with David (Zaslav). There is a supreme commander at the top of Warner Bros Discovery and he loves AEW and I have a great relationship with him and I think it’s going to go a long way towards really keeping something that is very important to me alive, which is wrestling on TBS, TNT.”

Before the summer, there was an initial report that the first offered deal between WBD and AEW left Khan disappointed, but the aforementioned Observer gave its own report refuting that.

RELATED: Tony Khan Accused Of Booking AEW Television On The Fly

Tony Khan is confident in the television future of AEW, whatever that future may be, and he hopes it continues with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Khan sat down for an interview with Bryan Alvarez and Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer and went into detail regarding his thoughts on that future. The AEW President said that the company is going to get a great deal and there are still discussion matters still on the table between the two parties. Despite the record-low number AEW accrued two Wednesdays ago on AEW Dynamite, Khan remains confident in the statistics AEW has done over the course of their deal with Turner.

“We need to keep doing what we’re doing because the numbers we have are numbers people in TV would kill to have. And I really need to focus on doing good shows for AEW and not about what the competition is doing, I think in this case our competition going out ahead of us and getting good media rights deals was a positive for us and actually good for us because we have very good historical comps, and these comps are very favorable for us. So that’s one thing I’ve done, a ton of market research and retain top analysts and data scientists and looking at this stuff.”

RELATED: Tony Khan Says He Greatly Respects Shane McMahon: “Always Welcome in AEW”

Thankfully, AEW rebounded with their numbers for the go-home episode of Dynamite ahead of Forbidden Door, getting an audience of 680,000, but it was still Dynamite‘s third-worst numbers so far in 2024.

The key demographic for Dynamite was also boosted up 37.5% from the previous week’s record-low getting a 0.22 P18-49 rating.

The fallout from AEW Forbidden Door will be featured at AEW Beach Break 3, showcasing a match between Will Ospreay and Daniel Garcia. The card will also have Jeff Jarrett competing in the Owen Hart Cup against a Wild Card entrant.

It didn’t take Dijak long at all to show up in a wrestling ring after his WWE exit and he may have bigger plans involving AEW.

The former T-Bar revealed before the weekend that he was not offered a new contract by WWE, sharing out a typed out letter explaining his exit in detail. Donovan Dijak stated that he was told at the “eleventh hour” that WWE would not be re-signing him and that they never even attempted to negotiate a new deal. Dijak stated that two months ago he was apart of one of the greatest matches in NXT history during WrestleMania weekend before being called up to RAW where he was never used.

Dijak didn’t let his exit cook for long as on Saturday, he made a return in his own backyard at Blitzkreig Luau in Conneticut. The “punk rock pro wrestling party” promotion stated that Dijak is a “free man.”

That notion may be all the more concrete as Dijak took to social media to cut a promo walking out of his house, claiming that it was time for a “Dijak Hijack”

“Today is such a beautiful day, it’s early in the morning right now, why don’t we go for a nice little drive, huh? Maybe a four-and-half hour drive? Maybe that’s exactly what today calls for.”

When considering the distance, Long Island fits the bill for a four and a half hour drive for Dijak which is where Forbidden Door takes place. In his letter, Dijak stated that he’d be taking bookings starting June 28 so him appearing at Forbidden Door is plausible to happen.

RELATED: Latest On Dijak’s WWE Exit: Backstage Plans, Roster’s Response

Jim Ross will be at Forbidden Door this Sunday after dealing with a recent bout of health issues. The WWE Hall of Famer has been admitted to the emergency room on two different occassions due to shortness of breath, but it looks like the legendary commentary will at least be in attendance for the PPV.

RELATED: Jim Ross Believes This Could Be His Last Year On AEW Commentary

Ross took to social media to state as such, saying, “Flying to NYC Saturday for #ForbiddenDoor. Wouldn’t miss it.”

Ross has been with AEW since 2019 and not long ago, signed an extension with the company that was said to be very lucrative for the Boomer Sooner, calling it the “quickest and easiest negotiation I have ever done in my career of 50 years.” Despite not being on TV, Ross did release his third book earlier this year, recounting some of the greatest matches he was on call for.

RELATED: 5 Things We Learned From Jim Ross’ New Book, ‘Business Is About To Pick Up’

Cody Rhodes’ days with AEW may be long over, but the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion was a part of the most recent episode of Collision.

On the June 29, 2024, episode of AEW’s Saturday show, a vignette aired teasing the long-awaited return of ‘Hangman’ Adam Page. Prior to this episode, the former AEW World Champion had not appeared on AEW programming since Revolution 2024 in March, where he challenged for the World title.

While Page’s vignette focused on the Cowboy, many fans were surprised to see Cody Rhodes make an unlikely AEW appearance. Around 23 seconds into the video, a photo of Rhodes, alongside Page, and the Young Bucks can be seen.

Rhodes left AEW in February 2022, just over three years after he and others founded the company in January 2019. The American Nightmare would return to WWE weeks later and has been one of the company’s top stars ever since. Despite now being part of AEW’s main competition, Rhodes has routinely praised the company and the efforts of those still in AEW in interviews.

What’s Next?

It’s unclear when Page will make his physical return to AEW, though some have speculated it could be at AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door. If not, then the Cowboy could make an impactful return at AEW All In inside Wembley Stadium this August.

As for Rhodes, he will continue his war with The Bloodline, now led by Solo Sikoa. Rhodes will team with Randy Orton and Kevin Owens to face the faction at WWE Money in the Bank on July 6. The show will prove especially testing for Rhodes, as should his match happen after the Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match, could be the victim of a swift briefcase cash-in.

• AEW Higher-Ups Approved ‘Blood Drinking’ At Full Gear PPV

MJF has claimed that he was able to speak with the late Brodie Lee via a medium, after the former AEW TNT Champion’s sudden passing.

Lee, real name Jon Huber, passed away in December 2020 at the age of 41. Lee’s final match would take place in October of that year, where he lost the TNT title to Cody Rhodes. Lee’s cause of death was ruled as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; a rare illness that thickens and stiffens tissue in the lungs.

• Tony Khan: ‘Brodie Lee is a first-ballot AEW Hall of Famer’

MJF Speaks With Brodie Lee

Over three years after his passing, Lee’s legacy stands strong in AEW and he is remembered fondly by fans and talent alike. Speaking about Lee this week, MJF shared that he initially visited a medium to speak to his grandfather who had passed close to when Lee died.

“Before I left, they said… ‘Whoa, there’s this big individual that has just walked into the room, he’s got a big scraggly beard, and he said he needs you to send a message to his wife.’ and I’m like, who the hell is this? The medium looks at me and goes, ‘his wife’s name is Amanda. Amanda Huber.'”

MJF was “freaked out” by the medium’s comments, and this feeling continued as the medium spoke in the manner and cadence MJF associated with Lee. The conversation ended with Lee sharing a message to MJF to pass on to his widow Amanda.

“I walk up to Amanda at TV the next week, and I tell her this insane story. Her eyes start welling up because she was searching for this message. She had got her answer that day. So even in the afterlife, Brody really loved and cared about his wife and kids.”

.@The_MJF takes a special opportunity to talk about Brodie Lee and the #BrodieLeeLegacy to celebrate the @Champssport @Reebok Classic Leather Sneakers exclusively on https://t.co/Z3qwx7NTkr on July 1st! pic.twitter.com/2Py26ujHZA

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) June 29, 2024

Brodie Lee evidently had a profound effect on those who knew him and MJF is just one of many to have been impacted by Lee and the legacy of the late wrestler. To this day, Lee’s influence carries on, with AEW & Reebok teaming up to create new footwear based on the star.

More has come to light regarding Penta El Zero Miedo as his current deal with All Elite Wrestling continues to tick away.

It was recently reported that Penta’s contract with AEW will expire between August and September of this year. Penta joined the All-Elite promotion in February 2019. He is a former AEW World Tag Team Champion with Rey Fenix and the pair are also former AEW World Trios Champions alongside Pac.

Latest On Penta El Zerio Miedo In AEW

Penta is open to leaving AEW and going where the best financial offer is, Dave Meltzer reports. It’s noted that Penta believes that his next contract will be “probably his last big money deal” as the masked wrestler is currently 39 years old. Penta is also said to have “a lot of people counting on him” which has left the talented wrestler with a very difficult decision to make.

Penta On WWE Interest

Should Penta leave AEW for a better financial offer, it’s likely that nowhere else would offer him more than WWE. Speaking on COMIENDO CARNITAS, Penta was coy when asked about whether WWE has its eyes on him.

“I prefer to focus on my present and my present is currently with AEW. If any company like WWE wanted to offer me something, I would need to evaluate because there is a lot of interests on the way.”

Ultimately, Penta El Zero Miedo will do what he feels is best for himself and those who rely on him. Time will tell whether we one day call him a WWE Superstar, but for now, the masked star is focused on his work with AEW.

• AEW Alum Reunite On June 11 Episode of WWE NXT

Mercedes Mone has said that she has creative control in AEW.

The AEW TBS Champion has been in news recently due to various reasons, including her upcoming champion vs champion match against NJPW Strong Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer at Forbidden Door this Sunday.

TMZ sports cameras caught up with the female star ahead of her big match this weekend. Mone was asked if she has finally found the creative control in AEW which she was missing in WWE, and the former Sasha Banks explained that opportunities are endless for her in Tony Khan’s promotion:

“I feel like here at AEW, all of my dreams and opportunity is just endless. So of course, being the TBS champion, and this Sunday at Forbidden Door, I’m about to be two-time champion. I’m gonna be the TBS champion and the New Japan Strong Champion. So yes, this little creativity that I have of taking all the belts, and going global, it’s beautiful.”

It’s A Great Combo: Mercedes Mone

When pressed again, the Mandalorian star claimed that she indeed has creative control in AEW and she works closely with the AEW President on her presentation:

“Yes I have creative control, but I work with Tony Khan very closely, so it’s great, it’s a great combo.”

In a different interview earlier this week, Mercedes Mone had revealed that she was in talks with AEW for 2 years before she finally signed with the company.

It’s very much possible that creative control was one of the reasons why the negotiations ran so long before she made her debut for the promotion during the March 13 episode of Dynamite this year.

If you thought Swerve Strickland was a man on an island heading into Forbidden Door against Will Ospreay, think again. 

Strickland happened to team with his opponent on the go-home episode of AEW Dynamite to face The Gates Of Agony. Swerve and Ospreay ended up winning the fight, but not without their share of trouble. Ospreay accidentally kicked Swerve in the face and post-match, it prompted Swerve to drop Ospreay. The AEW Collision elevated that tension ahead of Sunday.

Fan footage has Swerve and Will confronting one another on the entryway ahead of their big Forbidden Door battle. Swerve once more broke a cardinal rule of Will’s by once again bringing up his family, but this time the champ had some literal big back-up.

EJ Nduka happened to be standing behind Swerve as he mentioned Ospreay’s wife and it led to a pull apart brawl onstage, with Kyle Fletcher and Nduka taking swings at one another. 

RELATED: Swerve Strickland: ‘If Ever There Was A Time For WWE-AEW Crossover, It’s Now’

Nduka has been a blue chip acquisition by AEW since 2023, but The Judge had yet to make his TV debut until this coming Saturday. Nduka impressed Tony Khan and AEW in a memorable tryout match against Konosuke Takeshita, but has been kept on the back-burner since. The Judge was in WWE developmental for a time, but was released during the pandemic. 

EJ eventually found opportunity to hone his craft in Major League Wrestling as he was a dominant force on their programming. Along with Calvin Tankman, Nduka captured the MLW World Tag Team Titles and Nduka also had a World Title program with then champion, Alex Hammerstone

RELATED: Swerve Strickland Says MJF Will Have To Earn The Right To Challenge For AEW Title

Khan has officially welcomed the possibility of McMahon joining AEW.

Conrad Thompson had the internet buzzing after he shared that he heard that Shane McMahon had communicated with someone from All Elite Wrestling. McMahon has been off WWE TV since he suffered a torn quadricep injury in an impromptu match against The Miz at WrestleMania 39 on April 2. Many fans believe it will be for WWE if Shane-o-Mac returns to TV. However, it seems WWE’s competition would welcome him with open arms. 

Justin Barrasso recently spoke with AEW President Tony Khan for SI and asked about the possibility of Shane ‘o Mac becoming All Elite. Khan said he’s never met the man, but would welcome him any time.

“I heard the rumor he might be interested,” said Khan. “I’ve never met Shane, but we have a lot of mutual friends.”

“I have a lot of respect for him as an executive and a professional wrestler. Shane is always welcome in AEW.”

It’s unclear if McMahon really has an interest in joining AEW. That said, the possibility has fans wondering how the WWE veteran would fit in another wrestling company. The AEW President also touched on other topics related to the company, including an update on their TV rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Tony Khan Remains Optimistic About New Deal With Warner Bros. Discovery

The clock is starting to run out on AEW’s current deal with WBD. It’s expected that their current TV deal will expire in the fall. Despite AEW not reaching a new agreement, Khan has remained optimistic about the company’s future. 

In the interview, Khan shared a minor update, stating that he has recently spoken with the WBD staff. 

 “We’re having great discussions with Warner Bros. Discovery,” said Khan. He continued, “I have a great relationship with (WBD CEO) Mr. David Zaslav. We’re fortunate to work with him and his team. It’s a really strong relationship, and I had just a great discussion with their leadership team this week.”

It seems AEW’s future with WBD is still in limbo. Hopefully, both sides can reach a new deal, or Khan can find his company a new home before the fall.

AEW Dynamite Beach Break is set for July 3.

All Elite Wrestling has announced on X an exciting slate of matches for next week’s episode of Dynamite. In celebration of Warner Bros. Discovery Shark Week, AEW Dynamite Beach Break will occur on July 3 at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago,  Illinois. 

The event is expected to follow the aftermath of AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, which occurs on June 30. On X, the company also shared that the 2024 Owen Hart Foundation Men’s and Women’s Tournament will continue on the episode. 

One of the featured matchups will have Jeff Jarrett taking on a mystery opponent in the tournament’s quarter-finals. The wrestling legend shared an emotional promo about his relationship with Owen and why he needs to win the Owen Hart Cup on the June 22 episode of AEW Collision. It’s unclear who Jarrett will face, but it’s possible fans will get a hint as the episode draws closer.  

Another important matchup announced was that Willow Nightingale will finally get a chance at revenge against Kris Statlander in the semi-finals of the tournament. The former AEW TBS Champion was betrayed by Statlander and her former manager Stokely Hathaway at Double Or Nothing on May 25. Nightingale is expected to be extra motivated to win against Statlander and to become a two-time Owen Hart Cup Winner. 

PAC Opponent For AEW Dynamite Beach Break To Be Determined

In addition to the two matches announced for next week’s episode, PAC will also be in action in the semi-finals of the men’s tournament. He defeated Claudio Castagnoli on the June 19 episode of Dynamite to move forward in the competition. Unfortunately, he will have to wait until Forbidden Door to find out who the opponent will be.

Bryan Danielson will take on Shingo Takagi in the quarter-finals at the upcoming pay-per-view. The matchup has the potential to be one of the best matches on the card, with both superstars having a hard-hitting style. However, the winner will have the challenging task of facing PAC three days later on the Dynamite episode.

The July 3 episode of Dynamite has the potential to be a great show. Fans will be sure to tune in to witness how the 2024 Owen Hart Foundation Men’s and Women’s Tournament continues to develop. 

Where has Ricky Starks been on AEW? “Absolute” is completely cleared to wrestle but one of the company’s biggest stars on the rise has been nowhere to be seen since being hurt months back on AEW Collision.

Starks took a nasty DDT during Tag Title Tournament match on Collision. He ended up taking a full three count, allowing Top Flight to advance. Reports were that Starks and his partner Big Bill were supposed to advance. However, the potential injury to Ricky prompted an immediate audible.

Of all things, Reddit conjured up the discussion of Starks, and Fightful decided to look into the situation. Some of their AEW sources claim that Starks turned down pitches to be on television. A different source said that the only pitch Starks turned down was breaking up with Big Bill. The plan was to turn Bill full heel and Starks babyface, but Starks reportedly believed a contentious break-up wouldn’t benefit either. Starks reportedly wasn’t particularly happy with the lack of follow-up to his memorable match with Bryan Danielson.

There was also speculation that Starks wasn’t allowed in Calgary due to legal matters, but those rumors have been dispelled. Starks is not in the men’s bracket of The Owen Hart Cup after winning the tournament in 2023. Ricky defeated CM Punk in the finals of the tournament last year.

Regarding Starks’ interest in WWE, Fightful states there is a contingency in AEW who believe WWE is a goal. That notion makes complete sense considering that he’s close friends with Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill and CM Punk. It was actually Rhodes who brought Starks into the AEW fold. Starks was one of the names during COVID to challenge ‘The American Nightmare’ for the TNT Championship.

Penta El Zero Miedo has an AEW contract reported expire this summer, but would The Lucha Brother go to WWE?

Lucha Libre Online reported this month that Penta’s current AEW deal is done sometime in August or September and that WWE is interested in scooping the luchador up.

Penta was a guest on COMIENDO CARNITAS, and addressed the matter, stating that the WWE interest was only a rumor. Miedo confirmed that his contract did indeed end in August or September (noting his agent had to remind him). Penta makes clear that AEW is currently where his alliegance stands and prefers to focus on the present.

“There isn’t anything tangible. If there was to be anything tangible, we would need to evaluate it, check what is more convenient both financially and in-ring. Someone told me that it was like playing for Barcelona while you should play for Real Madrid. I can see that perspective, but I am not that young and it would be my last big contract.”

Penta makes clear he has no problems with either company and was asked if he’d be interested in going to WWE.

“It would be a good episode in my career, but I do not like to fantasy book. If it happens, it happens. I am focused on AEW and I am happy where I am at right now. Of course there is some complaints like more focus on the projection and rivalries, like it happens with every wrestler and company.”

Penta signed with AEW back in 2019 wrestled on AEW television earlier this month against The Butcher, but hasn’t been in a prominent television storyline in quite some time. 

H/t to Fightful for the transcription.

RELATED: Penta El Zero Miedo & Rey Fenix Present: Hit the Lights Lucha Libra Show For 6/1 At The Temple

On June 22nd, WWE interviewer and on-air talent Kayla Braxton (real name Kayla Becker) announced her departure from the Stamford promotion after an 8-year tenure with the company. Quicky, rumors began to swirl about the future for the 33-year-old. Unsurprisingly, this included predictions that Becker may look to continue a career in the professional wrestling industry and potentially join another promotion.

If you were one of the many fans hoping to see Becker display her elite skills on someone else’s show, well, in the words of SmackDown commentator Wade Barrett, we have some “Bad News!”

On Monday morning, Becker took to social media to set the record straight. In a post on X, Becker bluntly stated that she wouldn’t be leaving “the largest wrestling company in the world” if she wanted to stay within the industry. 

Becker signed with WWE in 2016 and started as a ring announcer in NXT. She would soon find herself on the main roster, working as a backstage interviewer, talk show host, and pre-show panelist. In recent years, Becker has become the lead backstage interviewer for the blue brand, with her humorous interactions with Paul Heyman have become a favorite among the WWE Universe.

In a lengthy social media post, Becker thanked the linked of Michael Cole, Triple H, and Nick Khan for all the opportunities she had been afforded during her time with the company. As of this writing, her final scheduled date with WWE will be on Friday, June 28th edition of SmackDown, which is set to take place in Madison Square Garden.

In playful banter on X, AEW on-air talent RJ City jokingly replied “Thank God” to Becker’s post about not joining another promotion. Becker would slap back by saying, “What I meant to say, was I wouldn’t leave to go be within 10 feet of this creep .@RJCity1”. The “war” between WWE and AEW has truly never been more intense! 

SEScoops wishes Kayla Braxton (Kayla Becker) a big congratulations on an incredible run with WWE. We can’t wait to see what she does next.

All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling collaborative pay-per-view event is fast approaching with an exciting card. AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door will occur at the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, on June 30.

 So far, the card has eight matches announced, including five championships set to be defended. One of the matchups that the PPV has been built towards is AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm defending her title against Mina Shirakawa. 

The feud has been building for several months, with both competing over the attention of Mariah May. The matchup would become official when Storm and Shirakawa signed their contracts on the June 19 episode of AEW Dynamite. Both superstars are expected to be at their best, as they hope to walk away as the AEW Women’s Champion and have May at their side. 

Related: Mariah May, Toni Storm Storyline Inspired By ‘All About Eve’?

Tony Khan On Storyline Between Toni Storm, Mina Shirakawa & Mariah May

AEW President Tony Khan spoke with Bleacher Report’s Doc-Chris Muller to give his insight on the storyline heading into the women’s title match. Khan praised all three superstars for how they have generated intrigue from fans, particularly the growth of Storm and May in AEW. 

“…It’s a storyline that I put together based on things Toni Storm has done since becoming ‘Timeless,’ and the integration of Mariah May, and it’s a fascinating dynamic between Toni and Mariah, and I think it’s some of the most captivating on AEW television week in and week out and it’s been fascinating to watch Mariah progress since she came in,” said Khan. 

Khan spoke highly of May and how she embraced her character of idolizing Storm since joining AEW. He also credited RJ City for helping him craft the storyline and believes Shirakawa could be a regular on the AEW roster. 

“…Mina has become a major part of AEW in recent weeks and I think she’s somebody that can be here on a regular basis. Somebody that can represent us as the AEW Women’s World Champion and Mina has a lot of history with Mariah, and Toni has a ton of history now with Mariah that has been built in this past year, and I felt like this dynamic would work so well, and everybody’s been great,” said Khan.

Related: Tony Khan On Shane McMahon’s AEW Interest: ‘I’ve Never Met Or Spoke With Him’

Tony Khan Previews Toni Storm vs. Mina Shirakawa At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door

The AEW President praised all three performers and believes the women’s title match could be great. He didn’t share who he thought would be victorious but hinted that the storyline could conclude at the PPV. 

“…All three of them, Toni, Mariah, and Mina, are fantastic wrestlers, and it’s going to pay off at Forbidden Door in a fantastic match when Toni Storm fights Mina Shirakawa for the AEW Women’s World Championship and also possibly for the respect and affection of Mariah May, and I cannot wait for the match,” said Khan.

Khan added that he loved working with them to create the storyline and how well everyone has performed. It seems likely that Storm will retain her championship, but fans will be interested to see if the results will make May choose who she’d rather be with. Fans must tune in at AEW x NJPW to know how the storyline will unfold. 

Related: Mercedes Mone Confronts Stephanie Vaquer Ahead of Forbidden Door Showdown

All Elite Wrestling superstar Darby Allin is taking some time off after a rough few months. His last match was teaming in a loss with FTR (Cash Wheeler & Dax Harwood) and Bryan Danielson against The Elite (Jack Perry, Kazuchika Okada, Matthew Jackson & Nicholas Jackson) at AEW Double Or Nothing on May 26. Since the brutal Anarchy In the Arena Match, Allin has not been on TV. A new report has shared an update on his absence.

Fightful Select has reported that AEW has given Allin time off to heal from his injuries, including a broken nose. It’s unclear when he may return, but the company is ensuring the AEW superstar has enough time to recover.

Just unbelievable behavior from the EVPs.

Order #AEWDoN on PPV right now!
?: https://t.co/MpmTCyHt8n
?: https://t.co/GTkwK7GBIn@youngbucks | @darbyallin pic.twitter.com/DDR0Q7eysY

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 27, 2024

Darby Allin’s Eventful Year

The first half of 2024 has been a very eventful time for the former TNT Champion. He started the year off strong alongside Sting, as they quickly became title contenders in the tag team division. The fan-favorite duo eventually became champions and successfully defended themselves against The Young Bucks (Matthew & Nicholas) at AEW Revolution on March 3. Although he found success early in the year, injuries took a toll on Allin’s body.

In the brutal tag team match against The Young Bucks, Allin had a spot where he launched himself off a ladder from inside the ring to the ringside on a pane of glass. The dangerous move resulted in Allin’s back being cut up and needing stitches. After relinquishing the titles due to Sting’s retirement, Allin would then take some time off with hopes of climbing Mount Everest.

Darby Allin’s Injuries Continue To Take Its Toll

AEW put him against Jay White for a loss on the March 13 episode of AEW Dynamite to take him off TV. Unfortunately, Allin suffered a broken foot in the matchup that caused the daredevil performer to be inactive and ruined his hopes of traveling up Mount Everest. Allin’s injuries woes continued the following month when he was hit by a bus, resulting in a broken nose. 

Allin returned to action earlier than expected to compete at AEW Double Or Nothing, as a replacement for the injured Eddie Kingston. In the match, fans noticed he was wearing a face mask and had not recovered fully from his injuries. That said, it didn’t prevent him from dangerous moments, including being Superkicked in the face while suspended above the ring by The Young Bucks.

The proper time away from wrestling is necessary for Allin to recover from his issues. Hopefully, he can be at full strength soon and plot revenge on The Elite for his last defeat at AEW Double or Nothing.

Wrestling returning to action after lengthy hiatus’ may have grown increasingly common as of late, but don’t expect Taz to step back in the ring. 

In recent years, fans have seen the in-ring return of the likes of Bryan Danielson, Adam Copeland, and Saraya, all of whom were told at one point or another that their careers in the ring were over. Ric Flair also returned to the ring for his final match in 2022 though his tag-team match in Nashville was not well-received by fans. 

• Ric Flair Fell Asleep During His Final Wrestling Match

With stars from the past returning to the ring, it’s hardly a surprise that fans are wondering whether Taz could have one final bout left in him. When the AEW commentator was asked though, the Human Suplex Machine made it clear he won’t be wrestling. 

I’m 56 years old, I need both shoulders replaced and both knees replaced so there is no shot at all. lol
Also, I had/have ZERO desire for “1 last match” for many years. No interest at all, once I left the ring years ago…I have been completely comfortable & happy about it.… https://t.co/Rp11VWDLcV

— taz (@OfficialTAZ) June 4, 2024

Though Taz won’t be donning his singlet for AEW, he has gotten physical in All Elite Wrestling in the past. During the April 17, 2024, edition of AEW Dynamite, Chris Jericho attacked his fellow ECW alum as part of Jericho’s feud with Taz’s son HOOK. 

• Taz Believes The UFC Copied One of His Biggest Ideas

While Taz won’t wrestle for AEW, the veteran forged an impressive career in the ring. The two-time ECW World and Television Champion also held gold in WWE and competed at several major events. These days, Taz can be found commentating for AEW as his legacy in wrestling continues to grow, this time behind the commentary table. 

Christan Cage won’t stop speaking his mind on AEW programming, especially when it comes to bringing up the deceased parents of others on the roster. 

Since turning heel in June 2022, Cage has transformed into a loathsome individual in AEW who often shocks fans with his promos. One of Cage’s most cutting lines sees him bring up an opponent’s deceased father. Those subject to this particular line from Cage include Jack Perry, Brian Pillman Jr. (now Lexis King), Wardlow, and Nick Wayne.

• Christian Cage’s Parents ‘Pitched’ to WWE for him to Become Champion 

On a recent edition of the Insight podcast, Cage spoke about his promos in AEW. When asked if he can believe the stuff he’s allowed to say, Cage revealed that he doesn’t consult with AEW management before he grabs the mic. 

“I’ve never told anybody what I’m going to say. I’ve never had it cleared with anybody. I’ve never asked anybody. I just go out there and do it. It’s one of those things.

Addressing his dead father comments, Cage reflected on how this line of attack has allowed him the chance to stick out on AEW’s massive roster.

“You have to be willing to go places others are unwilling to go to stand out, especially in this day and age. I saw an opportunity that I could jump on and I took it and I wrote it. Sometimes things happen and you’re not expecting to happen. I said one phrase and it turned into a wildfire and I just embraced it and ran with it. 

When asked if he felt any remorse, Cage made it clear he would not apologize for anything he’s said. With that in mind, fans of AEW can expect plenty more shocking comments, many about parents, to come from the Canadian veteran. 

Brian Cage re-signed with AEW over a year ago and the length of ‘The Swole-verine’s’ deal is pretty swole.

‘The Machine’ has been running with The Gates of Agony as The Mogul Embassy recently turned on AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland, but no matter what the future holds for the group, who just added Hechicero on AEW Rampage, Cage is completely content with sticking around All Elite Wrestling.

Speaking on “The Lightweights Podcast,” the former FTW Champion expressed just that about his current deal.

“I don’t see myself going anywhere else. With how long I’ve been there and how long my contract is for and everything else, it makes sense to stay put and I’m happy with that.”

• Brian Cage Shows Off Insane Bruising After Rough Spot On AEW Dynamite

When Cage was asked if his deal was about six more years, Cage said it was and he didn’t negotiate it alone. ‘The Machine’ had an agent to help nail down a deal for him. That was a first for Cage as he flew solo when negotiating his first few name deals in wrestling.

Cage has been with AEW for years at this point, first aligning himself with the now defunct Team Taz and has primarily remained a heel for the majority of his run.

While Cage is locked down by AEW, some names have been floating around as free agents recently. Arn Anderson, Mark Henry and Jake Hager all just announced their exit from AEW, but one major name to leave WWE is Becky Lynch. While it’s expected that Becky will stick around WWE after an extended leave, AEW could front the kind of contract Cage has in an effort to secure ‘The Man’ comes around AEW.

H/t to Fightful for the transcription.

In May 2024, ShopAEW saw strong sales across various categories, with Double or Nothing capping off the month to give them a new boost of momentum. The month’s top merchandise sellers reflects who is on top in the fans’ eyes. 

Wrestlenomics reports that AEW branded merchandise led the way with the highest number of items in the top ten daily rankings. Will Ospreay followed, showing significant sales. 

Top-Selling AEW Merchandise for May 2024

Top Superstars:

• AEW
• Will Ospreay
• ROH
• Swerve Strickland
• Adam Copeland
• Kenny Omega
• Young Bucks
• Mercedes Moné
• Toni Storm
• Jack Perry

In terms of individual items, two Blu-ray disc releases top the list. The AEW WrestleDream October 1, 2023 Blu-ray Disc stayed in the top ten for 19 days. The AEW ALL IN LONDON August 27, 2023 Blu-ray 2-Disc Set performed well, remaining in the top ten for 18 days. 

Will Ospreay’s “The Feeling” also saw consistent sales, along with the pre-order for the ROH Final Battle 2023 DVD 2-Disc Set. The ROH Final Battle 2022 DVD 2-Disc Set maintained a strong presence in the rankings.

Best-Selling Items:

• AEW WrestleDream October 1, 2023 Blu-ray Disc
• AEW ALL IN LONDON August 27, 2023 Blu-ray 2-Disc Set
• Will Ospreay – The Feeling
• Pre-Order: ROH Final Battle 2023 DVD 2-Disc Set
• ROH Final Battle 2022 DVD 2-Disc Set
• Limited Edition – Kenny Omega Vs King – Tekken 8 Series
• Pre-Order: Matthew & Nicholas Jackson AEW Micro Brawler Tag Team 2-Pack
• 2023 AEW Trading Cards (Blaster)
• Nyla Rose – HER (All Royalties Will Go To Freedom Oklahoma’s 501c3)
• Orange Cassidy Beaded Bracelet 3-Pack

Fans could be seeing much more of Will Ospreay in Soft Ground Wrestling Uganda as the two sides are said to be currently in positive talks. 

SGW Uganda has become a hit online in recent months after notable names began sharing the promotion on social media. Ospreay, as well as TNA Wrestling’s Jordynne Grace, donated to a GoFundMe fundraiser aimed at providing a standard wrestling ring as well as other operating needs. 

• Wrestlers Raise Over $28,000 For Popular SGW Uganda Promotion

Ospreay has spoken in the past about wanting to compete for Soft Ground Wrestling Uganda and that could soon be the case. Responding to an article about the reigning AEW International Champion, the official SGW Uganda Twitter account confirmed that their promotion and Will Ospreay had been in talks. 

Very true @WillOspreay reached us and anytime dropping something contagious. We are in good talks with the goat just timing now. pic.twitter.com/MbHNNPPv1L

— SGW @soft ground wrestling Uganda (@SGWug) June 2, 2024

What’s Next? 

It’s possible that Ospreay will challenge for the newly-instated SGW Uganda Championship which was introduced earlier this year. The first-ever champion is Anoa who won the title in the finals of a tournament that saw him beat Tate Mayfairs

• More on SGW Uganda’s First Champion

Back in the United States, Ospreay has his sights set on capturing more gold in All Elite Wrestling. On the most recent edition of AEW Dynamite, Ospreay won a Casino Gauntlet Match to earn an AEW World Championship match at AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door. Ospreay has held the AEW International Title since Double or Nothing and barring a last-minute title change, he will challenge Swerve Strickland later this month in 

Pro wrestling is going through a booming period, and let’s take a look at some of the biggest players in their advertising game.

EDO, a TV advertising analytics company, has profiled WWE and AEW, giving strong marks to both. Wrestling remains a major draw for TV advertisers due to its large, engaged audience.

WWE’s Monday Night Raw, the longest-running weekly episodic program, will move to Netflix in January 2025. This transition signifies a major shift in the platform for WWE’s flagship show. Meanwhile, AEW has established itself as a strong competitor in the wrestling world. Its Dynamite show frequently tops cable ratings on Wednesday nights, demonstrating its popularity among viewers.

WWE’s rise is thanks to Endeavor merging the company with the UFC and Vince McMahon departed from the company, leaving things to Triple H and Nick Khan’s vision. That momentum has been noticed all over.

AEW’s ad effectiveness has seen notable growth, particularly on its Rampage program. Brands such as Bud Light and Crest have experienced increased engagement through their advertising on AEW shows.

WWE’s programs, including Raw and SmackDown, also show significant ad engagement. Top advertisers like Credible and Purple have reported impressive results from their campaigns on these shows. Advertisers benefit from the high engagement rates of these programs, making them effective platforms for brand promotion.

Top 10 AEW Advertisers

Here are the top 10 most effective advertisers on AEW programming, among brands with 10 or more airings from April 2023 through March 2024:

• Innovation Refunds (+284% more effective than the average AEW advertiser)
• Just for Men (+201%)
• Pampers (+195%)
• Ferrero Rocher (+182%)
• Bud Light (+169%)
• Crest (+108%)
• Miller Lite (+102%)
• Schwarzkopf (+97%)
• Applebee’s (+93%)
• Diet Coke (+93%)

Top 10 WWE Advertisers

The top 10 most effective advertisers on WWE programming, among brands with 10 or more airings from April 2023 through March 2024, include:

• Credible (+2,978% more effective than the average WWE advertiser)
• Purple (+490%)
• Dawn (+224%)
• Depend (+215%)
• Hot Pockets (+200%)
• NyQuil (+194%)
• Mattel (+190%)
• Puffs (+180%)
• Miller Lite (+177%)
• Mr. Clean (+177%)

AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm recently issued a challenge to STARDOM wrestler Mina Shirakawa.

Storm made an appearance during the June 2 STARDOM event through a video as she challenged the Japanese wrestler for the upcoming AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view later this month. Toni Storm was featured with, “STARDOM legend” Mariah May. She said that she had her eyes on Mina, who has made appearances in AEW in the past. She said:

“Hello, STARDOM, this is your AEW Women’s World Champion and STARDOM legend ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm and this is my trusty protege and STARDOM legend, Ms. Mariah May. Mina-san, I see you’ve been at AEW when I’ve not been around but I’ve been watching you. Oh, I’ve been watching you.”

Toni Storm said that wanted to square off against Mina Shirakawa and she wouldn’t have to knock or ring the doorbell as she has kept the forbidden door open. 

“You do not need to knock, you do not need to ring the doorbell, because I have opened the forbidden door and I want you. Don’t worry, any friend of Mariah’s is a friend of mine. I just want to see what kind of woman you really are.”

AEW???????????????????????????????… pic.twitter.com/gv0NOygnEA

— ??????STARDOM (@wwr_stardom) June 2, 2024

While Toni issued the challenge, Mariah didn’t seem to be impressed. Toni’s protege Mariah May has been closely linked with Mina and teamed up with her. They have even shared a kiss on AEW. The match hasn’t been made official yet but the relationship between Mariah and Mina might come into play during the match.   

Toni Storm and Mariah May made STARDOM appearance in April

In April, Storm showed up at the STARDOM American Dream event in Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena (better known as ECW Arena). During that appearance, she had given her flowers to Mariah May and said she was proud of her understudy. That night, she also had eyes on Mina Shirakawa and told her that “the Forbidden Door is always open.”

• Toni Storm Was Very Appreciative of ‘Understudy’ Mariah May 

Toni Storm is coming off a title defense against Serena Deeb at AEW Double Or Nothing. She is likely to face Mina Shirakawa at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden which is set to take place on June 30 at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.

Pro wrestlers rely on their bodies to make a living, and keeping in peak shape is a priority for a majority of them. MJF recently showed off his physical transformation, and it’s quite impressive. 

MJF has worked hard to reach the top of the pro wrestling world. His impressive physique is the result of his dedication, but he didn’t achieve it alone.

He recently posted a before-and-after photo on Instagram, showcasing his progress. In the post, he credited Adam Pfau, a personal fitness coach, for helping him achieve his current look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C7p6g5Euioz

Double or Nothing Return & Nixed Plans

MJF returned to AEW at Double or Nothing, ending his hiatus since losing the AEW World Title to Samoa Joe at Worlds End. During his return, he also revealed a new tattoo, signifying that he re-signed with AEW and bet on himself.

Although MJF missed the Dynamite episode following Double or Nothing, he is set to appear on next week’s show. Fans are eager to see what the former AEW World Champion will say and who he will face next.

Adam Cole’s injury forced AEW to alter plans for him and MJF. A match was planned for 2023 but did not happen. While the timing of their face-off remains unclear, Cole’s involvement in MJF’s return segment is promising.

Swerve Strickland is enjoying his time as AEW World Champion and recently showed off a new grill.

Formerly known as Swerve Scott in WWE, he was released during the pandemic. By the time Triple H wanted him back, Swerve was already under contract with AEW and couldn’t enter talks. Tony Khan has taken good care of Strickland, and he is now sitting on top of the Land of All Elite.

Swerve’s hard work has paid off, leading to his reign as AEW World Champion. He’s living it up and has plenty to be proud of.

https://twitter.com/puroresuflow/status/1796941947052970101

Strickland’s Next Title Defense

Swerve Strickland will defend the AEW World Title against Roderick Strong on the June 5th episode of AEW Dynamite.

The bout came together on the June 1st episode of AEW Collision, with Strong saying he was supposed to be the last man in the Casino Gauntlet on Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite. Strong suggested to Tony Khan that he should face Swerve for the championship on Dynamite. Tony Khan agreed that it was a good idea, giving him the title match.

Roderick Strong makes a HUGE CHALLENGE for #AEWDynamite NEXT WEEK in Colorado!

Watch #AEWCollision on TNT!@RoderickStrong | @TonyKhan | @FACDaniels | @SwerveConfident pic.twitter.com/83dOVmv4kf

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) June 2, 2024

Roderick Strong has a message for Swerve Strickland, which he shared in a viral video after the June 1 AEW Collision broadcast.

“SWERVE! Listen, I don’t care what you do when you drive. I care what you do in that ring. When I’m looking back through the history books, I’m 2-0 against you. So, you may be the AEW World Champion for now, but come Wednesday in Colorado, I will be your new AEW World Champion.”

After defeating Lio Rush on June 1, 2024, AEW Collision, Strong appealed to Tony Khan for a match for the AEW World Title on the June 5 episode of AEW Dynamite. Now, Strong has the chance to win the most prestigious prize he has yet to challenge for in his AEW career. Obviously, Swerve Strickland is not ready to give up his title just yet.

EXCLUSIVE: The Undisputed Kingdom couldn't be happier that Roderick Strong has a shot at the #AEW World Champion @Swerveconfident this Wednesday at #AEWDynamite LIVE from Colorado!@roderickstrong | @RealMikeBennett | @MattTaven pic.twitter.com/2zMm5OBQgd

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) June 2, 2024