Ricky Starks has become the latest AEW alum to arrive in WWE as the former tag champion debuted during the February 11, edition of WWE NXT. Starks is not the only AEW name to go on to call WWE home, as he follows in the footstps of the following talents:

Cody Rhodes: A founding member of AEW, Cody Rhodes made a high-profile return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in April 2022, reigniting his quest for a WWE World Championship.

Jade Cargill: After a dominant run as AEW’s TBS Champion, Cargill signed a multi-year contract with WWE in September 2023. She made her in-ring debut at the Royal Rumble in January 2024 and is a two-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion.

CM Punk: Following a tumultuous tenure with AEW, CM Punk made a surprising return to WWE at Survivor Series in November 2023, marking a significant comeback after nearly a decade away from the company.

Penta: Formerly known as Pentagon Jr. in AEW, Penta debuted on WWE’s Raw in January 2025, securing a victory over Chad Gable. Becoming the Iron Man in this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble demonstrates WWE’s faith in the masked star.

Shawn Spears: After his AEW contract expired at the end of 2023, Spears returned to WWE in February 2024, appearing on NXT and continuing his “Chairman” persona. He has since been involved in various storylines, including a notable feud with Ridge Holland.

Blair Davenport: Briefly part of AEW under her real name, Bea Priestley, Davenport signed with WWE in 2021. She won the Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge in 2023 and moving to the SmackDown roster in 2024 before her recent release from WWE.

Lexis King: After making waves in AEW under his real name of Brian Pillman Jr., Lexis King signed with WWE in 2024. He debuted on NXT, where he is the reigning NXT Heritage Cup holder, and retained the cup on this week’s NXT against TNA’s JDC.

Andrade: Andrade returned to WWE in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match after a handful of years in AEW. He has since gone on to hold the WWE Speed Championship.

Many former AEW names have gone on to hold championships in WWE while some are awaiting their big break. It remains to be seen what direction Starks’ future takes in the company but his arrival has left fans excited to see what’s to come.

Shawn Spears has explained that his AEW departure wasn’t caused by any disputes or frustrations and that he simply left because he wanted to contribute more.

The Chairman recently appeared on Chris Van Vliet’s Insight podcast. He discussed things such as his classic ‘stan’ segment with Shawn Michaels, returning to WWE, his friendship with Cody Rhodes and more.

While talking about his departure from Tony Khan’s promotion in January this year, the former AEW star explained that he wanted to contribute a little bit more both on camera and behind the scene:

“I think it just came down to a personal want, in terms of wanting to contribute a little bit more, both in front of the camera and behind the camera. I had a wonderful time in AEW.

I have and have had a great relationship with Tony Khan. You’re never going to hear me say anything bad about that guy. Same thing with a lot of EVPs, talent, everything. I had a wonderful time.”

• “I Tried” – Shawn Spears Disappointed He Wasn’t In This Year’s WWE Royal Rumble

My Time There Was Special: Shawn Spears

Shawn Spears mentioned that his time in AEW helped him become a better businessman. He learned things like having faith in your own ability and putting your foot down when needed:

“My time there was special, getting to work with all the top guys based on a lot of storylines that I was in with Max and FTR and things like that. So a lot of things that I would have never gotten to do, I think in my career, I was very fortunate enough to do there.”

While Spears didn’t win any titles during his four years with All Elite Wrestling, the wrestling veteran shared the ring with the likes of Cody Rhodes, MJF, Chris Jericho, and many more.

The 43-year-old made his return to the NXT brand in February this year. He has been a featured star on the brand ever since and has competed in many high-profile matches.

• Cassie Lee & Shawn Spears Welcome the Birth Of Second Child

Cedric Alexander is back in the win column after securing a victory on the July 30 episode of NXT. The developmental brand held week one of their Great American Bash TV special. One of the featured matchups had Alexander taking on Brook Jensen.

It marks the WWE veteran’s first singles win on TV since he defeated Reggie for the WWE 24/7 Championship on the November 22, 2021, episode of Monday Night Raw.

The matchup came together after Shawn Spears confronted Alexander while he was advising other NXT talent backstage. “The Chairman” downplayed the usefulness of the former WWE Cruiserweight Champion’s knowledge and shared that he was mentoring Jensen. Alexander responded that Spears can only influence weak-minded talent, leading to Jensen challenging him to a match in the episode.

Alexander and Jensen had their moments in the match, with the troubled NXT talent coming close to being victorious. However, Jensen would hurt himself on a missed leg drop attempt from the ring apron onto his opponent on the announce table. Alexander used his experience to capitalize on the moment and land his Lumbar Check finisher to get the win.

Cedric Alexander Comments On Current NXT Run

Alexander reflected on his victory in a backstage interview and teased Spears that his teaching methods didn’t seem to have much impact on Jensen. He was also asked how he felt about being on the NXT roster, and the former main roster superstar expressed that he is enjoying it and plans to stick around for a while.

Although he was successful against Jensen, it seems Alexander will have to deal with Spears soon. The former All Elite Wrestling superstar showed displeasure with his Protégé taking the loss. Spears will likely want to prove a point and show that he is a better influence over the NXT locker room than Alexander. Hopefully, the “Babyface” can continue his momentum with his fresh start on the developmental brand.

Cody Rhodes has said that he regrets not having Shawn Spears in the ring for his celebration after the WrestleMania 40 win over Roman Reigns.

The American Nightmare recently had an interview with The Babyfaces podcast. He discussed things such as The Miz throwing him a crazy party for his 21st birthday and more.

Cody has long history with The Chairman, going all the way back to their time in Ohio Valley Wrestling. Spears was one of Rhodes’ first mentors after Dusty Rhodes decided to put them in a tag team because Spears had more experience than his son.

The American Nightmare talked about this time and mentioned how Shawn Spears was the one who carried him through the rivalry with former WWE tag team Deuce ‘n Domino:

“You mentioned Shawn Spears. So Shawn Spears, during the Deuce-Domino-Cherry, during this rivalry, I had no fundamental experience. I couldn’t tell you a top wrist lock from a double quarter. I had no fundamentals. But they didn’t mind because they were teaching me from the story perspective first. That’s how Al [Snow] would like to teach and Shawn was there to lead me through it, and he does not get enough credit from me for how special he is.”

He Is A Blessing To The Business: Cody Rhodes

The Undisputed WWE Champion later recalled meeting Shawn Spears backstage on the day of his big win over Roman Reigns. Cody Rhodes claimed that he regrets not having Spears with him for the post-match celebration at the Show of Shows:

“He is the only person that I regret I didn’t have in the ring after WrestleMania because I saw him that day and we just took a picture together and he was just like he always was. He knew what this day was, he knew it was big and the opportunity to go and I could take it all if I wanted to and gosh dude, I wouldn’t be where I’m at without Shawn Spears. He is a blessing to the business and I am so glad to see him in NXT.”

The American Nightmare is scheduled to defend his title against Logan Paul at the upcoming King and Queen of The Ring Premium Live Event from Saudi Arabia on May 25.

After leaving AEW at the start of the year, Shawn Spears returned to WWE during the February 27 episode of NXT. He has been active on the brand as an on-screen talent ever since and has also been helping produce the shows behind the scenes.

The wrestling world has made its views clear following the airing of backstage footage showing last year’s altercation between Jack Perry and CM Punk. 

The April 10, 2024, episode of AEW Dynamite saw the Young Bucks air the much-anticipated footage from All In London 2023 that saw Perry and Punk get physical. The altercation led to both men being suspended from AEW and Punk being fired a week later. 

The Wrestling World Reacts

Unsurprisingly, the airing of this footage has caused quite a stir among those in professional wrestling. On his Instagram Stories immediately after the segment, Punk shared an image of President George W. Bush with the message “Mission Accomplished.”

The Young Bucks took to Twitter to speak about being petty Executive Vice Presidents of All Elite Wrestling. 

EVPetty

— Matthew & Nicholas Jackson (@youngbucks) April 11, 2024

Shawn Spears, an AEW alum who has since returned to WWE as part of NXT, suggested that releasing the footage had backfired for Tony Khan. 

pic.twitter.com/P9xhDStGwX

— Shawn Spears™? (@ShawnSpears) April 11, 2024

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T, who previously made up a fictional altercation with Punk, used a gif of himself to express his surprise. 

pic.twitter.com/m4X4aSIDer

— Booker T. Huffman (@BookerT5x) April 11, 2024

Eric Bischoff, who has been critical of AEW and Tony Khan, believes releasing the footage proved that Khan is a ‘clown,’ a term Punk used to describe him post-fight. 

? https://t.co/eVjtT5ge7O

— Eric Bischoff (@EBischoff) April 11, 2024

AEW’s Danhausen, a friend of CM Punk, was amused to see what unfolded, as a gif of ‘Rowdy’ Roddy Piper showed. 

pic.twitter.com/St4YPeXn97

— Danhausen (@DanhausenAD) April 11, 2024

WWE/TNA Hall of Famer Bully Ray said it was “no bueno” for AEW that fans were chanting for Punk at Dynamite. 

Did I just hear CM PUNK chants during the beatdown? ?????

Because if I did…no bueno. #AEWDynamite #BOAfterDark@BustedOpenRadio

— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) April 11, 2024

Bully also addressed the matter further on his Busted Open Radio: After Dark podcast. 

“This is not on the talent. This is not on the locker room. And most of the time, it never ever is across the board. It’s on creative. It’s on the booker. It’s on the matchmaker. This company needs help. At this point, I hope even you diehards realize that.”

Ultimately, Punk will continue to be a source of controversy within AEW even after his release from the company. As far as these reactions and those by fans go though, it appears airing the footage may not have done AEW or Tony Khan any favors. 

Each year Royal Rumble Premium Live Event promises massive surprises and returns. Well, it has come to light that Shawn Spears, who is currently performing in NXT, aimed to be a part of this year’s Royal Rumble. 

Royal Rumble 2024 took place at the Tropicana Field in St.Petersburg, Florida in January and the event was filled with some memorable moments and surprising debuts. Fans certainly loved what they witnessed and the event lived up to the expectations. 

However, ‘The Reaper’ couldn’t make it to Men’s Royal Rumble match that was won by Cody Rhodes.  Nevertheless, the following month, Spears, who parted ways with AEW, made his shocking return during the February 27 edition of NXT.

Shawn Spears opens up on his plan for Royal Rumble return

Speaking to Fightful, Shawn Spears stated that he “shot his shot” but he doesn’t think he got in early enough for Royal Rumble. 

“All I will say is that, I shot my shot. I just don’t think I got it in early enough. I think I was too late. But I did shoot my shot. I tried. All I can do is, ‘Hey, how about this?’ and then I let it go. I let the rest play out as it can.I think I was a little late to the party. So you never know. That’s what they tell you, right? You never know.”

During the interview, Spears also stated that he preferred to use the ‘Shawn Spears’ name when he decided to make a comeback to WWE and even NXT head Shawn Michaels was in favor of the idea. 

Shawn Spears has competed in a couple of matches on NXT following his return and racked wins over Ridge Holland and Uriah Connors. 

We will have to wait and see what’s in store for him in the coming days.

WWE has seen some exciting returns over the past year. NXT fans were very surprised to see Shawn Spears return to the brand, but they almost saw him on a much larger stage prior to that.

It turns out that Shawn Spears made a pitch to WWE for him to be a part of the 2024 Royal Rumble match. Of course, that proposed plan did not pan out.

Shawn Spears’ Pitch

Leading up to the 2024 Royal Rumble, some fans expressed a hope for Shawn Spears/Tye Dillinger’s return to WWE as the number 10 entrant, playing on his “Perfect 10” persona.

In his first post-AEW interview with Fightful, Shawn Spears confirmed that he had indeed pitched ideas for the Royal Rumble. He mentioned that he had “shot his shot,” for that idea to go down. Unfortunately, the plans for the Rumble had already been finalized by then, so Spears didn’t make the Rumble match.

What’s Next for Shawn Spears

Shawn Spears is back in NXT, where he has a lot of upside to what he brings to the table. He is a veteran who could benefit the brand in many ways. Only time will tell if he gets another Royal Rumble appearance, but fans will be waiting for him in the 10th entry.

SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more, as we continue. Keep checking back throughout the day for the updates you need on every big story.

WWE’s latest trademark filings have shown that the promotion is serious about keeping Shawn Spears around following his recent return to the promotion. 

Spears returned to WWE last month as part of the NXT brand, five years almost to the day that he left the promotion in February 2019. Spears returned by attacking Ridge Holland. On this week’s episode of WWE NXT, Spears defeated Uriah Connors in the on-screen debut of the recently renamed Brogan Finlay. 

Shawn Spears is Locked In

WWE has now filed to trademark the Shawn Spears name, confirming that he will use this name going forward and ditch the Tye Dillinger moniker. The trademark filing covers the use of the Shawn Spears moniker for use at wrestling events and through broadcast media. It also covers the use of the name online in the field of ‘Sports Entertainment.’

More Trademark Filings

Shawn Spears isn’t the only WWE Superstar to get his name trademarked. WWE has also filed for the name of fellow WWE NXT Superstar Dijak. The former Retribution member has been making waves as part of the gold brand and is one of the more prominently featured Superstars appearing on Tuesday nights. 

WWE has also filed a trademark for the name of WWE SmackDown Superstar Berto. The young wrestler has undergone several name alterations throughout his career. He debuted as Humberto Carrillo, which was later shortened to Humberto. He would later get his last name back before it was shortened again and has since be shortened further to just Berto. 

WWE has teased a mysterious Superstar during NXT for the past few weeks. We’ve now learned the identity of the man behind the mystery is former AEW star Shawn Spears.

After weeks of mysterious vignettes, the mystery reached its conclusion when Ridge Holland was in the ring, having previously dismissed NXT Women’s champion Lyra Valkyria and Tatum Paxley and addressing recent events in the black and gold brand.

The lights went out, one final cryptic message echoed throughout the arena and a hooded figure appeared. He then proceeded to knock out Holland with a chair, revealing himself, to the shock and surprise of the entire WWE Universe.

Spears Comments on His WWE Return

WWE cameras caught up with Spears backstage at NXT just moments after his shocking return.

Why did Shawn Spears return to NXT? Why has he been taunting the NXT roster with strange and unsettling messages? According to the man himself, he’s there to deliver the truth.

"The truth can bring you to your knees, and that's why Shawn Spears is now in NXT"

Business just picked up, @ShawnSpears is ready to take over #WWENXT! pic.twitter.com/YUJw8I4FYr

— WWE (@WWE) February 28, 2024

Reactions

‘The American Nightmare’ Cody Rhodes acknowledged his longtime friend’s WWE return with a simple tweet:

10

— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) February 28, 2024

Spears’ wife and former WWE Superstar Cassie Lee also showed some love on social media:

Home sweet home @ShawnSpears @WWENXT

— Cassie Lee (@CassieLee) February 28, 2024

Shawn Spears’ Road Back to WWE

Shawn Spears wrestled in WWE developmental (2006-2008) and then WWE’s version of ECW for the next year before getting released.

He re-signed in 2013 and wrestled in NXT until 2017, where he was on the SmackDown brand until 2019. The ‘Perfect Ten’ signed with AEW later that year and gave his notice at the end of 2023.

Spears is coming up on two decades in the wrestling business. His career has come full circle and he’s now back with WWE and working with up and coming talent. This time around, he brings a wealth of experience that will serve both himself and the rising stars he’ll be working with.

Shawn Spears is officially back with WWE as part of the NXT brand, and Cody Rhodes has had the perfect reaction to the return of his fellow AEW alum.

Spears returned to WWE during the February 27, 2024, edition of WWE NXT. Spears was revealed to be the man behind weeks of mysterious vignettes. The former AEW star attacked Ridge Holland with a steel chair, much to the shock of the WWE Universe in Florida. 

Cody Rhodes Reacts to Spears’ Return

During his return, Spears was referred to by the Spears name, as opposed to his previous WWE moniker Tye Dillinger. During his days as Dillinger, Spears was referred to as the ‘Perfect 10.’ Reacting to Spears’ return, Cody Rhodes took to Twitter and gave an appropriate score for his friend’s comeback. 

10

— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) February 28, 2024

Other Reactions

In a tweet of his own, Spears confirmed that his appearance on this week’s WWE NXT was not a one-off, and that he is back. 

I’m back. @WWE @WWENXT #NXT

— Shawn Spears™️ (@ShawnSpears) February 28, 2024

Cassie Lee, the wife of Spears who competed for years in WWE as Peyton Royce, had her own reaction. The IIconic wrestler made clear that it was pleased to see Spears is back ‘home.’

Home sweet home @ShawnSpears @WWENXT

— Cassie Lee (@CassieLee) February 28, 2024

Cody Rhodes wasn’t the only wrestler who had quite the high score for Spears’ return to WWE, as seen in the tweets below. 

10! @ShawnSpears

— Matt Cardona (@TheMattCardona) February 28, 2024

10

— Breeze (@MmmGorgeous) February 28, 2024

Spears Return to WWE NXT

WWE went to great efforts to keep Shawn Spears’ return a secret ahead of this week’s NXT. During rehearsals for the attack on Holland, NXT head Shawn Michaels filled in for Spears. The Canadian’s name was also kept off of run sheets for this week’s NXT. Spears received a warm welcome backstage after his appearance on the show. 

Shawn Spears is back with WWE, and fans should get used to hearing that name instead of his previous moniker Tye Dillinger. 

Spears returned to WWE during the February 27, 2024, edition of WWE NXT. Spears was revealed to be the man behind weeks of mysterious vignettes. The former AEW star attacked Ridge Holland with a steel chair, much to the shock of the WWE Universe in Florida. 

What’s In A Name? 

While he previously competed for WWE as Tye Dillinger, the Canadian Superstar will go by Shawn Spears in this run, Fightful Select reports. The veteran began using the Spears name before joining WWE and used it again when he joined AEW in 2019. 

Kept a Secret

Few in WWE NXT were aware of Spears’ return, with one describing it as a “complete shock.” As of 8 pm EST, Spears was not listed on internal documents, nor was anyone else listed for Ridge Holland’s promo. In terms of rehearsals, Shawn Michaels would fill Spears’ role in rehearsals with Holland earlier today. One source told Fightful that Spears was signed to a deal for some time before the first ‘Three Faces’ vignettes began to air.

Shawn Spears surprised AEW fans when he confirmed his departure from AEW. The former Tye Dillinger is set to be a free agent on January 1st, but he had one final role in AEW, although he wore a mask during that appearance.

Shawn Spears’ Final Role in AEW

According to Dave Meltzer on the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Shawn Spears was one of the masked men working for The Devil in recent weeks. This was his last role on AEW television prior to his departure.

“Spears hadn’t been used much but on a recent TV was one of the Devil’s guys.”

The Devil has appeared for several weeks, with masked men doing his bidding. It was not noted which segment Shawn Spears appeared in, but many believe The Kingdom played the roles of the two masked men who won the ROH World Tag Team Titles during the December 27th episode of AEW Dynamite.

Shawn Spears’ AEW Departure

Shawn Spears was among the initial group of talents signed by Tony Khan for the formation of AEW. He made his AEW debut during the Casino Battle Royale at the inaugural Double or Nothing event.

Sean Ross Sapp first broke the news of Shawn Spears’ AEW departure on Fightful Select. A short time later, Shawn Spears confirmed that he is leaving Tony Khan’s company.

Shawn Spears is scheduled to depart from AEW on January 1st. The separation is reported to be mutually agreeable as well. 

Shawn Spears was a part of the first wave of talent that Tony Khan signed when he was putting AEW together. The former Tye Dillinger made his way to AEW as part of the Casino Battle Royale at the first Double or Nothing event, and the rest is history. Now, his time has with AEW come to an end.

Shawn Spears is leaving AEW

According to Sean Ross Sapp on Fightful Select, Shawn Spears is set to leave AEW on January 1st. His separation is said to be amicable with All Elite Wrestling.

We’re told that Spears becomes a free agent on January 1, and the departure was amicable between he and All Elite Wrestling.

Shawn Spears then took to X, where he confirmed this report. He thanked AEW for allowing him an opportunity, but now he is off to a new part of his life. He also made it very clear to note that this was his choice to leave All Elite Wrestling.

“What a wonderful time it has been. Thank you AEW for allowing me to be there from the ground level. It’s been a fantastic 5 years of growth and personal development. This is a personal choice and one that is best for me and my family at this time. Thank you to all, staff and talent alike for the memories. 10.”

Shawn Spears and his wife, Cassie Lee, also recently announced that they are expecting a second child.

AEW’s Notable Departures In 2024

AEW saw significant departures recently, notably the exit of Dana Massie. There will be a few key figures moving on from AEW next year.

QT Marshall’s departure from the company is set to become official in 2024, and he is no longer present at AEW events. Marshall, besides being an in-ring competitor, served as AEW President Tony Khan’s right-hand man for a period.

Internally, AEW is undergoing changes, marked by Kevin Sullivan’s abrupt release and the departures of QT Marshall, Dana Massie, and Rafael Morffi from the company. There could be more details to explore once the dust settles on this unfolding story.

Pro Wrestling couple Cassie Lee and Shawn Spears have announced that they are set to become parents for the second time. 

Taking to Instagram, the couple revealed that they are expecting a baby boy in 2024. Lee delivered the couple’s first child, Austin Jay Arneill, in January of this year. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C1QOm_7PmLk

Lee isn’t the only IIconic wrestler to enjoy being a parent. Last week, her tag-team partner Jessica McKay gave birth to her first child, named Cooper. 

Shawn Spears & Cassie Lee in the Ring

Spears currently competes for AEW, where he has been working since 2019. The former Tye Dillinger instantly made an impact with a feud with Cody Rhodes which would see Spears deliver an unprotected chair shot to  Rhodes’ head. In 2010, Spears was part of the MJF-led faction ‘The Pinnacle’. The faction would defeat the Inner Circle in a Blood and Guts match at Blood and Guts before losing in a Stadium Stampede match at Double or Nothing.

Cassie Lee is a former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion and IMPACT Wrestling Knockouts Tag Champion and is one of four women to have held both titles. In April 2022, Lee, alongside McKay requested their immediate release from IMPACT which was granted. The pair gave a statement sharing their intention to step away from wrestling. Lee wouldn’t wrestle until October of this year and would compete for a tour in her native Australia. 

What do Cassie Lee & Jessica McKay make to wrestling, motherhood, and more? Click here to check out their exclusive comments to SE Scoops. 

AEW’s Shawn Spears and fellow wrestler Cassie Lee are celebrating the birth of their first child, a baby boy they have named Austin Jay.

Taking to Twitter, Spears shared a photo of their son along with his name, a blue heart emoji and that he was born this past Tuesday.

The couple announced that they were expecting a bundle of joy last August with a post on Instagram.

We here at SEScoops would like to congratulate Spears and Lee on this joyous occasion.

Cassie Lee & Shawn Spears

The new parents met when they were working for WWE, where Lee was Peyton Royce and Spears was the ‘Perfect 10’ Tye Dillinger.

The couple married in August 2019 in a ceremony attended by multiple wrestlers.

In February of that same years, Dillinger announced that he had requested his release from WWE, which was granted days later.

Debuting at the inaugural AEW event ‘Double or Nothing’ Spears would establish himself as a heel and later become part of the Pinnacle.

During AEW’s debut in Toronto last October, Spears turned face and reverted to his ‘Perfect 10’ character from WWE.

As for Lee, she became a WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion in 2019, but would be released from WWE in April 2021.

Released at the same time as her IIconics tag-team partner Jess McKay (Billie Kay) the pair would join Impact Wrestling later that year.

In their debut, the team, now going by The IInspiration, would capture the Knockouts Tag Team Titles, the only team to hold both WWE’s and Impacts women’s tag gold.

In April 2022, both women requested their immediate releases from Impact and are taking a break from wrestling.

Don’t expect to see Shawn Spears back in All Elite Wrestling any time soon.

The former Pinnacle member has only competed for AEW eight times this year. His record stands at 5-3. Spears made a surprise return back in October, when Dynamite and Rampage took place from his hometown of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He and FTR picked up a victory in a six-man tag match against The Embassy’s Bishop Kaun, Brian Cage & Toa Liona.

A fan on Twitter asked Spears when he’ll be returning to AEW television. He replied:

“Don’t hold your breath… Not going there anytime soon.”

– Shawn Spears

Spears is married to former WWE Superstar Cassie Lee (Peyton Royce). The couple are expecting their first child together.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cassie Lee (@cassielee)

AEW’s insistence on keeping the Women’s Title on Thunder Rosa despite her prolonged absence has been a matter of debate among people in recent times. Shawn Spears, for one, has made his stand on the matter very clear.

The former Pinnacle member took on his Twitter to comment on the arrangement of interim champions. He shared the belief that you should either be a full-time champion or not be a champion at all:

AEW has always had the policy of crowning an interim champion if any of the belt holders get injured or have to take time off for any reason.

The absence of the AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa, however, has been a controversial affair since the start. Some female talents of the company have accused her of faking the injury to avoid dropping the title.

• Toni Storm Makes an Argument for Stripping Thunder Rosa of AEW Women’s Title

She has also been away from the ring the longest among all the reigning champions who have taken a break from the promotion. This is why many fans believe that Rosa should be stripped of the title.

Jamie Hayter became the new Interim Women’s Champion by defeating Toni Storm at Full Gear. AEW President Tony Khan was asked about striping Rosa of the title during the post show media scrum. He said that he will make a decision once the timeline for Thunder Rosa’s recovery becomes clearer.

What do you think about AEW’s decision to keep the women’s title on Thunder Rosa? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.

Last month, Shawn Spears made his return to AEW when Rampage debuted in Toronto, Canada. He was in a match with FTR against The Embassy. Prior to that, Spears was last on AEW programming back in May when he lost a steel cage match against Wardlow.

After the show ended, Spears explained his five month absence; his mother had died. On the latest episode of The Sessions with Renee Paquette, he opened up about her death.

His mother had terminal cancer. Spears explained that in Canada, “you can set yourself up on how you want to go, so that’s what she did. She wanted to go at home, surrounded by her children. She made me promise that if something happened where she wasn’t able to walk, speak, anything like that, that it was time to go.”

Shawn Spears Mother Left Him With One Last Lesson

“I was actually supposed to go to a signing on a Friday and she was doing well. But a major stroke had hit on Friday and basically paralyzed her ability to speak, walk, move, anything. So when we were finally all back home — all the kids were there — I had to make the decision to go ahead with the process. She could squeeze your hand, so I was asking her if you’re ready to go, squeeze and let me know she’s ready to go. Everything was on her own terms. That was the most beautiful thing. And that was the thing that brought me comfort during that time was that it was her call and we’re doing things how she wanted them done.

But the lesson that I learned, the final one that she left with me — and it’s something I always knew — but it was made more paramount in that moment: family was everything. That’s all that mattered to her. So, all the money that I have would not have been able to take away her cancer. All that mattered is that she wanted to be surrounded by her kids.”

• Shawn Spears Claims Former WWE Superstar Has Retired

“And once she passed, it was just like, you don’t believe it, but it’s just right in front of you. You can have everything together. You can have your job, your life, your marriage, everything is together, but then you feel absolutely lost. You don’t know where to start, you don’t know where to go or how to move and it kind of freezes time for a little while.”

After speaking about why he was absent from TV, Spears received many messages from people who had recently lost people. He tried to respond to as many as he could. He reminded fans that we are all going to go through it eventually.

AEW star Shawn Spears recently joined Renee Paquette for an episode of The Sessions podcast.

Renee recently joined All Elite Wrestling as an interviewer. She formerly worked in WWE as Renee Young as an interviewer and a brief stint on the RAW commentary team. Spears performed in WWE under the name Tye Dillinger until he asked for his release from the company in February 2019. He signed with AEW a few months later in June.

During the interview with Renee, Shawn talked about former WWE Superstar Tyler Breeze and if he will return to wrestling again. The Chairman said that Breeze has claimed that his in-ring career is over.

The 41-year-old added that he hopes that his training partner isn’t done for good and that Breeze will return to the squared circle someday soon.

Spears recently returned to AEW on Rampage in Toronto three weeks ago. He teamed with FTR to defeat The Embassy. After the match, Shawn announced that he hasn’t been around lately due to his mother passing away.

H/T: Wrestling Inc

A death in the family resulted in Shawn Spears taking several months away from AEW programming, the former WWE Superstar has confirmed.

Spears returned to AEW TV at this week’s Rampage, which took place in his native Canada.

In the main event, Spears teamed with FTR to defeat The Embassy, consisting of Bishop Kaun, Brian Cage, and Toa Liona.

AEW TNT Champion Wardlow and ROH World Television Champion Samoa Joe appeared afterward to clear the ring after the show went off the air.

Spears’ News

After Rampage Spears spoke to the crowd in an emotional address to discuss his five-month absence.

Spears explained to the crowd in Toronto that his mother passed away earlier this year which resulted in his haitus from AEW.

He added that before his mother passed, she was the first person to learn that Spears and his wife Cassie Lee are expecting their first child.

Prior to his return this week, Spears had not been seen since losing a steel cage match to Wardlow on the May 25, 2022 episode of AEW Dynamite.

AEW uploaded footage of Spears’ passion-filled speech which you can watch below.

Shawn Spears in AEW

Shawn Spears debuted for AEW at their inaugural Double or Nothing Pay Per View in May 2019.

In June, Spears confirmed himself as a heel, attacking Cody Rhodes with a steel chair, earning the moniker of the ‘Chair Man of AEW.’

During Rampage, Spears returned with the ‘Perfect 10’ gimmick he had previously used in WWE as Tye Dillinger.

AEW made its long-awaited debut to Toronto, Canada on Wednesday. They featured various Canadians, including the debut of Renee Paquette and the return of Shawn Spears.

Spears returned in a segment after Wardlow and Samoa Joe faced QT Marshall and Nick Comoroto. Wardlow put Marshall in the Powerbomb Symphony twice when he was interrupted by Brian Cage and Prince Nana. He was mad that they stuck their nose in their business with FTR. Cage asked where FTR was and he got his answer when they made their way to the ring.

FTR brought out a mystery opponent for a match on Rampage. Someone from Ontario and the show starts at 10 (as Cash Wheeler counted on his fingers). Dax Harwood said it’s “the pinnacle of professional wrestling” when the number 10 popped up on the screen. The fans were more than happy for the return of “The Chairman”.

Spears tossed Aaron Solo into the ring to set him up for the “Big Rig”.

Shawn Spears has been MIA

Spears has been missing from AEW programming since May 25. He lost to Wardlow in a steel cage match. With MJF off television for several months, Spears was also missing from programming.

• Former WWE Stars Debut In All Elite Wrestling

Earlier today Spears tweeted “11.”

He has since changed his Twitter avi to the number 10.

AEW may be losing its ‘Chairman’ soon enough going by a recent tweet by Shawn Spears.

On Twitter, Spears tweeted a simple “goodbye” which many saw as him teasing his exit from the promotion.

Spears’ tweet did not last long, as it was quickly deleted, feeling fan speculation that he was teasing an exit, and had been told to delete his tweet.

Shortly after, Sammy Guevara tweeted in response to Spears “You are a jobber. A favor hire. Be grateful b*tch.”

It has been suggested that Spears could be looking for an extended break from AEW, as his wife Cassie Lee is pregnant with the couple’s first child.

Departures

Spears has teased an AEW exit, and he’s not the only one who may want out.

In recent weeks, Andrade El Idolo has teased leaving AEW, and will put his career on the line against Preston ’10’ Vance’s mask on this week’s Rampage.

Miro has also teased an exit, liking tweets suggesting that he would do better in WWE.

Shawn Spears

Spears joined AEW in 2019 at the company’s debut Pay Per View, ‘Double or Nothing,’ coming up short in the Casino Battle Royal.

After his signing was confirmed in June, Spears would establish himself as a heel at Fyter Fest, hitting Cody Rhodes in the head with a chair, busting the American Nightmare open.

Calling himself the ‘Chairman’ of AEW, Spears aligned with Tully Blanchard and would use a loaded glove, gifted by Blanchard to pick up victories.

After a lengthy absence, Spears returned to TV in March 2021, aligning with FTR, Wardlow, and MJF to become ‘The Pinnacle.’

When Wardlow split from the group, the heavyweight would face Spears in a Steel Cage match on the May 25, 2022, AEW Dynamite, which Wardlow won.

Wrestlers from both WWE and All Elite Wrestling were able to put their differences aside last weekend to strut their stuff as part of a fashion runway.

During a celebrity fashion show in Pittsburgh, PA, stars from both companies walked the runway, wearing outfits from David Alan Clothing.

AEW TNT Champion Wardlow was on hand to show off the clothes and removed them on the runway.

Shawn Spears gave fans a little dance during his performance, while AEW’s lawyer and manager ‘Smart’ Mark Sterling had someone play an electric violin for his walk.

Sterling also handed out business cards to those in the audience.

As for WWE, Braun Strowman walked the runway and was also billed under his real name Adam Scherr.

The event also featured former WWE Superstar Mojo Rawley.

Strutting their Stuff

It’s not just male wrestlers who have been walking the runway in the name of fashion recently.

Last week, Sasha Banks and Naomi participated in a fashion runway as part of New York Fashion Week.

This is the latest public appearance by the former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, who haven’t been seen since walking out of Monday Night Raw during the May 16, 2022, episode.

Despite belief that the pair were set to leave WWE, there has been reports that Banks and Naomi have agreed to return under the company’s new regime.

Reports have suggested that Banks and Naomi could return to WWE TV within a matter of weeks.

Wardlow Says “So Much Ruined” with MJF match at AEW Double or Nothing 2022.

One wrestling couple has just announced that they’re expecting their first child together.

All Elite Wrestling star Shawn Spears and former WWE Superstar Cassie Lee (Peyton Royce) shared a video of social media sharing the news. Spears and Lee married back in 2019.

Spears ran with WWE from 2013 to 2019, during which he spent four of those years with NXT before being called up to the main roster. Unfortunately, Spears never got a run as a champion during his time with WWE.

However, he was one of SmackDown Live’s most promising young stars at the time. In February of 2019, Spears asked for his release from WWE, and it was later granted. A few months later, he made his AEW debut at Double Or Nothing.

As for Lee, she had a six-year run with WWE as one-half of the tag team, The IIconics, alongside Billie Kay. The pair had runs on NXT and the WWE main roster, which included a reign as the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.

However, Lee was released from WWE in April of 2021 along with several other talents, including Kay. She had a brief run with IMPACT Wrestling in 2021 before ultimately requesting her release this past April.

Now, it appears she’ll take some time away from the ring as she and Spears start their family together.

Shawn Spears believes he made Wardlow.

When MJF, who is currently involved in a program with Wardlow, was feuding with CM Punk and it was Spears who was Wardlow’s accounta-bilibuddy, staying by his side and giving him advice.

While everyone’s attention was on the feud between MJF and Punk, Spears believes he was busy making Wardlow a star during that time.

Speaking to Mark Henry on Busted Open, Spears said that he helped Wardlow because he lacked experience but now the rising star bit the hand that fed him and wants to go his own way (as transcribed by Fightful):

“Here’s my problem. Okay. In the midst of Max feuding with CM Punk, arguably the biggest feud of the year, arguably the biggest feud of the past five years, there was an underbelly story taking place, and that was with Wardlow and myself. That guy went on a tear. That guy started to get very over, the crowd started responding to Wardlow in the most positive way possible,” Spears said.

“Why do you think that is? If you look at the common denominator, I was by his side, every single second that that was taking place,” Spears explained. “I was the guy in his ear giving him the advice. One thing Wardlow lacks is experience. The guy is talented, the guy is big, the guy is strong, the guy checks almost every single box in this industry, except one, and they can help right now it’s not his fault. He doesn’t have the experience that I have.”

Spears went further on and said that when a rookie reaches a certain level of popularity, they start thinking they are too big for the industry and are better than everyone else. Spears thinks Wardlow did the same when he started getting popular with fans.

“Wardlow turned around and he bit the hand that fed him. We made him a star and now, he just ups and wants to go on his own way. You want to do your own thing? Go ahead. Go ahead, go do your own thing and see how that works out for you,” Spears stated.

Spears also added that Wardlow has turned his back on him and it’s going to cost Wardlow. He praised MJF, likening him to Cody Rhodes, who according to Spears, understands the business. Spears also clarified that he isn’t fighting for MJF’s admiration.

Shawn Spears will go against Wardlow with MJF present as the referee. This is part of the conditions that MJF made Wardlow agree to if he wants to face him at Double or Nothing. Wardlow has to get whipped by MJF ten times and then has to defeat Spears in a steel cage match. If he wins, Wardlow will get his match against MJF. But if he loses, he can never sign with AEW.