During the April 24, 2024, edition of AEW Dynamite, Tony Khan found himself the victim of an attack by The Elite, culminating with a spike piledriver by The Young Bucks that wrote Khan off of TV for months. While Khan has since made a full recovery and resumed his regular appearances for AEW, fans shouldn’t expect him to engage in any more physical confrontations.
Speaking to amNY Metro, Khan was asked if he has any interest in showing his mettle in the ring. While Khan is fiercely passionate about pro wrestling, The Elite has made the AEW President wary of future physical altercations.
“I didn’t step into the ring voluntarily. I would hope to avoid such physical altercations in the future.”
Khan’s injury, and the aftermath, were highlighted in NFL Films’ A Day in the Life of Tony Khan, which aired this week on FS1. He appeared wearing the neckbrace during the 2024 NFL Draft, and later auctioned off the brace for charity, raising money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to support the fight against childhood diseases.
Khan’s restraint from wrestling sets the AEW President apart from other executives with Vince McMahon, Eric Bischoff, and Paul Heyman all stepping in the ring over their respective careers. Some have even gone on to hold championship gold with McMahon boasting reigns as WWE and ECW World Champion, and even won the 1999 Royal Rumble. The former WWE Chairman, soon to be the subject of a Netflix docuseries, holds victories over Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Bobby Lashley, and even God.
Khan may hope to avoid physical altercations, but wrestling fans have learned time and again to never say never. While the idea of the AEW President lacing up a pair of boots may seem far-fetched, so did the idea of Shane McMahon join AEW until his meeting with Khan earlier this year. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on Tony Khan and whether the billionaire steps foot in an AEW ring as a competitor.
Team AEW was victorious over The Elite on this week’s edition of Dynamite in a brutal Blood and Guts match that left the heels with no choice but to forfeit.
Jack Perry and Darby Allin started the match for their respective teams and the TNT Champion maintained the advantage over Allin with a trash can and extension cord.
Jack Perry sends Darby Allin flying like a lawn dart!
Nick Jackson was the next arrival, giving the Elite a distinct advantage, and ROH World Champion Mark Briscoe was the first wrestler to bleed significantly after having his face scraped across the cage.
The #ROH World Champion Mark Briscoe has arrived to even the odds for #TeamAEW!
Matt Jackson was out next to join his brother but Anthony Bowens would change the complexion of the match. Bowens used scissors and stabbed Perry in the head, earning “You Sick F***” chants from the crowd.
The Scissor King, Anthony Bowens is here to reinforce #TeamAEW!
Kazuchika Okada, wielding a ‘Rainmaker’ street sign was next to enter the cage and Max Caster followed with a microphone and he retrieved a barbed-wire board from under the ring. This came back to haunt The Acclaimed as the Young Bucks sent Bowens into it, prompting “Holy S***” chants from the crowd.
In case things weren’t already violent enough, thumbtacks were introduced next and poured into Caster’s mouth. ‘Hangman’ Adam Page was supposed to arrive next but didn’t. Instead, the Cowboy waited for Swerve Strickland’s entrance so he could ambush the reigning AEW World Champion.
Hangman Adam Page only has his eyes on #AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland and now #AEWBLOODandGUTS begins!
Swerve was left locked out of the cage and Page, under the threat of being fired, got in the cage as demanded by Nick Jackson. Jeff Jarrett would help free Strickland’s trapped hand, allowing him to enter the cage.
Swerve and Hangman finally get their hands on each other!
Staple Guns were introduced via a briefcase that the Bucks had brought to the match. Despite this, Team AEW fought on with Darby Allin delivering a Coffin Drop to Jack Perry.
The finish of the match also involved Allin and Perry as the TNT Champion was handcuffed to the wall and took some kendo shots but refused to quit. Mark Briscoe followed with a chair shot to the head of Perry, but that still wasn’t enough. Allin then retrieved a gasoline can and threatened to see Perry ablaze. Fearing the loss of life of his ally, Matt Jackson gave in, awarding Allin a TNT title match at All In, and forfeiting Blood & Guts.
Darby Allin wants his TNT Championship Match at #AEWAllIn and will set Jack Perry ON FIRE to get it!
This year’s Blood & Guts certainly delivered the violence that fans have come to expect with the brutal stipulation. After months of having control, the Elite’s loss is a huge setback for the group, and could be a sign of things to come next month in Wembley Stadium.
Adam Copeland suffered an injury at AEW Double or Nothing in a barbed wire steel cage match against Malakai Black. Despite winning the match with Gangrel’s help, he can’t continue as champion.
On AEW Dynamite, The Elite cut a heel promo. They gifted Okada a Lamborghini and failed to get a “You Deserve It” chant for him. Then, The Young Bucks stripped Adam Copeland of his TNT Title due to his injury and attempted to crown Jack Perry as the new champion.
Christopher Daniels, recently fired by The Elite, interrupted them. He revealed that Tony Khan had given him a new job as an authority figure on AEW television. He announced that the TNT Title wouldn’t go to Jungle Boy as The Elite wanted. Instead, a series of matches will determine the participants for a ladder match for the vacant TNT Title at Forbidden Door.
The first qualifying match will take place on Friday night Rampage this week. The Forbidden Door event is scheduled for June 30, 2024, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.
Just before The Elite could award Jack Perry the #TNT Championship, "The Fallen Angel" returned to make a HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT!
During the Barbed Wire Steel Cage match at AEW Double or Nothing on May 26, Adam Copeland attempted an elbow drop on Malakai Black. He landed on his feet without hitting Black, raising concerns about a possible injury.
Copeland finished the match but needed help from Gangrel to get to the back, hobbling on one leg. Rumors circulated about his condition, and this morning, Copeland provided an update.
In a video posted on Twitter, Copeland revealed he fractured his tibia and will need surgery. There’s no timeframe for the surgery yet, as he wants to focus on celebrating his daughter Ruby’s birthday first.
Despite the injury, Copeland remains positive, joking about his match and putting over his opponents. He admitted he got cocky and needs to make better choices, acknowledging his age.
Surgery is expected next week, and Copeland, familiar with recovering from injuries, promises to be back soon.
The Elite proved to live up to that moniker at AEW Double or Nothing 2024 after defeating four of AEW’s top names in the Anarchy in the Arena match.
The quartet of The Young Bucks, AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada, and Jack Perry met FTR, Bryan Danielson, and Darby Allin in the show’s violent main event. The crowd were electric from before the match started, thanks in part to Bryan Danielson using The Final Countdown for his entrance.
As predicted, the match kicked off with intense action as the eight men took their battle all over the MGM Grand Arena in Paradise, Nevada. During one spot, Allin attempted to down Jack Perry in a bucket of cold water in the parking garage while the Bucks hit Shatter Machine on Dax Harwood but only garnered a two count.
This was a match where high-action spots became the norm and all eight men were given an opportunity to deliver. In one spot, Perry emerged and walked through Gorilla to grab Tony Khan but the camera cut away. Another spot saw Darby Allin light Perry’s legs on fire before the flames were extinguished by the Bucks.
The finish of the match saw all but Bryan Danielson taken out and the Elite hit their finishers on the American Dagon. Jack Perry got the win for his team over Danielson and AEW Double or Nothing goes off the air with The Elite standing tall with Perry on their shoulders.
Bryan Danielson’s love for AEW has led the American Dragon into a war with the company’s EVPs The Elite that will culminate with Anarchy in the Arena.
Danielson will join FTR and the recently returned Darby Allin to face the Tag Team Champions The Young Bucks, Jack Perry and Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada. Speaking after this week’s AEW Collision, Danielson shared his reasoning for aligning with ‘Team AEW.’
“I’m watching Dynamite, and I see the Young Bucks and the Elite piledrive Tony Khan. A guy who started this company. The guy who if he wasn’t here, this company wouldn’t even exist. And I watched that and I was angry, mad as hell.
“And then I watch the next week, as they took out Kenny Omega and hospitalized him. When he’s already sick, when he’s already hurt! You were supposed to change the world together. And that’s how I know, you guys say you’re good Christian boys but you guys are evil. Because who turns their back on their best friend like that?
“And that’s when I realized, I can’t stay at home anymore. I can’t rehab anymore. I have to come back and I have to fight! I have to fight for AEW because I love this place! You guys say you want to change the world! You won’t even show up on a Saturday!”
EXCLUSIVE: Bryan Danielson will FIGHT with all of the strength that he has left with Team AEW to take out The Elite at Anarchy in the Arena at #AEWDoN NEXT SUNDAY!@BryanDanielsonpic.twitter.com/x2INeVymZQ
Danielson has been a part of AEW since 2021 after a highly successful run in WWE as Daniel Bryan. The upcoming Anarchy in the Arena match will be Danielson’s second time competing in such a match after the BCC beat The Elite last year.
For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops.
One of All Elite Wrestling’s most chaotic matches is returning later this month at AEW Double or Nothing: Anarchy in the Arena.
Former AEW World Champion Kenny Omega appeared on this week’s AEW Dynamite to address the violent attack he sustained last week at the hands (and feet) of The Elite. Omega, who is out indefinitely recovering from diverticulitis, checked in from a hospital bed to deliver an important announcement. The Elite will face justice for attacking him last week on Dynamite. At Double or Nothing, The Young Bucks, Kazuchika Okada and Jack Perry will face FTR and two additional partners in the Anarchy match. Later in the show, they were revealed to be Bryan Danielson and Eddie Kingston.
Anarchy in the Arena involves two teams battling in a no-rules falls-count-anywhere match. Often involving two warring factions, the unique stipulation combines elements of hardcore and cinematic matches and is dubbed ‘Stadium Stampede’ when held in larger stadium venues. We got a preview of Anarchy in the Arena when the two teams brawled at the conclusion of this week’s Dynamite:
Double or Nothing Coming Together
Anarchy in the Arena joins the growing card for the upcoming AEW Double or Nothing pay-per-view on Sunday, May 26 from Las Vegas.
Swerve Strickland puts the AEW World Championship on the line against Christian Cage, Mercedes Moné Makes her AEW in-ring debut and challenges Willow Nightingale for the TBS championship, Will Ospreay goes for gold against International Champion Roderick Strong and more.
Anarchy In The Arena: The Elite vs. FTR, Bryan Danielson and Eddie Kingston
Current match lineup for AEW Double or Nothing:
Swerve Strickland (c), with Prince Nana, vs. Christian Cage with The Patriarchy for the AEW World Championship
Mercedes Moné vs. Willow Nightingale (c), for the TBS Championship
Will Ospreay Vs. Roderick Strong (c) for the International Championship
‘Timeless’ Toni Storm (c) vs. Serena Deeb
Anarchy in the Arena match: The Elite vs. Team AEW.
Watch Kenny Omega’s address from AEW Dynamite 5/8/24:
Jack Perry has made it clear that The Elite no longer needs the services of Kenny Omega. A new era is upon us led by The Elite. They have made it clear that nobody is going to control AEW except for them. Yes, that includes Tony Khan, especially after what went down last week. On last night’s Dynamite, Kenny Omega finally made his return in his hometown, Winnipeg, Canada. However, things didn’t go well for ‘The Cleaner’ as he was brutally assaulted by The Elite members (Matthew & Nicholas Jackson, Kazuchika Okada and Jack Perry). The assault continued backstage, as Omega was being stretchered away on the AEW Rampage that aired immediately following Dynamite.
The Elite sends Kenny Omega packing on AEW Rampage (5/1/2024)
In a Digital Exclusive, Jack Perry sent a stern message to the former AEW World Champion.
‘The Scapegoat’ mocked the Canadian wrestler by saying that it might be the last time he did his old moves in his hometown. Perry said that ‘The Best Bout Machine’ was not the hero they needed and he’s only a “coward”. He concluded his message by saying that The Elite doesn’t need him anymore as they would change the world without him. He said:
“Kenny Omega, is this the best that you got? You know, you’re not as bad as you think you are. But I hope that you had fun, hitting all your old moves in your hometown for what’s probably the last time in your entire life. The thing that hurts me the most, Kenny, is that you were not the hero that we needed you to be. When it came down to it, you were a coward, like everybody else.
The truth is, The Elite doesn’t need you anymore. Neither does AEW. Because we are going to change the world without you. We all have to sacrifice, and you just made yours.”
Fans might be thrilled to witness Kenny Omega back on television, but he’s unlikely to wrestle anytime soon. He has been on the sidelines for several months while recuperating from diverticulitis. While uncertainty looms over surgery, Omega is fighting to make a comeback to the ring. During his promo on Dynamite, ‘The Cleaner’ divulged that his bout with Diverticulitis took a serious turn and the doctor informed him that fortunately, he was hospitalized in time or else he was potentially 24 hours from death.
Kenny Omega will seek revenge on The Elite when he’s healthy to return to AEW
Upon his return, Omega also had a face-off with his NJPW arch-nemesis Kazuchika Omega and told him to give him a few months before he could return. Well, AEW All In: London takes place on August 25 and these two could once again lock horns at the show – if he’s medically cleared by then.
It’s time for the Daily Drop on Thursday, May 2. Last night saw AEW present a very interesting three-hour block of programming, and there is a lot to unpack.
Kenny Omega made his return to AEW television last night in Winnipeg, but things did not turn out too well for him. After receiving a rousing welcome in his home city, The Elite inserted themselves into the situation to make sure The Cleaner left on a stretcher. Then, the Young Bucks chased that stretcher down and tipped it over like the dastardly heels they are.
Now, let’s get into today’s edition of the Daily Drop!
AEW:
Nyla Fires Back: The Native Beast, Nyla Rose, released a t-shirt to fire back at The Oklahoma State Athletic Commission, who said she cannot wrestle cis gendered females as a transgender woman. That new merchandise will go to help Freedom Oklahoma, a 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy group.
Pressure on Swerve: The new AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland spoke on the pressure that is on him now. He also said that all of his endeavors outside pro wrestling helped prepare him to carry the heavy ball for Tony Khan.
The Bounty Hunter: Bryan Keith confirmed that he inked a multi-year deal with AEW. He will be around for years to come. Keith signed a deal with AEW in February 2024 after competing against Eddie Kingston on an episode of AEW Collision. Since then, he has faced wrestlers like Kyle O’Reilly, Malakai Black, Top Flight, and Private Party on AEW television.
Bryan Danielson Can’t Travel: Brie Garcia revealed on the Nikki and Brie Show that Danielson hurt his neck at AEW Dynasty. She made a point to say that it wasn’t too bad, and it is the kind of bump that comes with being in the ring. Despite Garcia trying to play it down on her podcast, it was announced on AEW Dynamite that Danielson didn’t make the Winnipeg Dynamite because he was not medically cleared to travel.
Taz Gets Bad News: Taz recently visited an orthopedic surgeon due to severe knee issues. After tests and X-rays, he learned that both his shoulders and knees need replacements. He has opted not to undergo surgery immediately and will instead continue with regenerative procedures to manage the pain.
Went to a highly acclaimed orthopedic surgeon yesterday to discuss my knee. It’s been brutal for a couple of years, he did testing & X-rays on me. So, both of my shoulders & knees need to be replaced. 4 joints. I am not doing this right now. I’m gonna keep trying regenerative…
WrestleMania London: Triple H did not throw any kind of wet blanket on the idea of London hosting the show of shows. At this point, The Game stated that all locations are on the table.
Mandy Rose Gets Lips Dissolved: The former NXT Women’s Champion logged onto Instagram to update her fans about a cosmetic procedure that she’s having reversed, her lip filler. In the post, she revealed, “We did some lip dissolving today! I’ve always been a little afraid to do this ngl but it was definitely needed and really wasn’t that bad! Swollen at first but a couple hours later the swelling went down, and honestly with the numbing cream I barely even felt it.”
Drew Brings Up AJ: In a very bold move, Drew McIntyre said that he would steal AJ Mendez from CM Punk if he wasn’t already married. This was a big shot, and it will only add to the rivalry that Punk and McIntyre are destined to have once the Second City Savior returns to the ring. He later tweeted and deleted a quote retweet of that video saying: “It’s a general statement, not specific. Even when comes [sic] to Punk there’s some lines you don’t cross.”
WWE Speed For Women: Triple H confirmed that WWE is looking heavily into featuring women in upcoming versions of WWE Speed. No word on whether they will introduce a WWE Speed Women’s Title as a part of this.
Tony Khan rode a wave of attention when he wore a neck brace during the NFL Draft. He had plenty of chances to plug Dynamite this week, as he promised that fans will find out what is next in the obvious power struggle going on within the company.
Tony Khan opened this week’s AEW Dynamite via satellite from Jacksonville, Florida. As he was explaining that he couldn’t be in Winnipeg due to The Elite’s actions last week, his feed got choppy and cut out. Matthew and Nicholas Jackson appeared in a production truck and made it clear they were in charge of the broadcast. They explained Khan can’t fire them due to a ‘founder’s clause’ in their AEW contracts. Since they’re the highest ranking officials at the show, they’re in charge and rolled a customized Dynamite opening video package featuring only The Elite.
Later in the show, Jack Perry explained his actions against Tony Khan last week. He said he did what was best for AEW in this “new era” as the Winnipeg arena filled with “CM Punk” chants.
"We are entering a new era under The Elite" – Jack Perry
Kenny Omega took the ring during the final segment of AEW Dynamite. After explaining his ordeal with diverticulitis, The Cleaner admitted that he couldn’t watch AEW television for the longest time. The former AEW World Champion stated that he’s not done wrestling, and he will do whatever it takes to return.
Then he brought up The Jackson Brothers, saying that they don’t call the shots by themselves in AEW, because the Best Bout Machine is still an EVP of the company. Kazuchika Okada made his way to the ring after that, as fans chanted “holy sh*t” before either of them said a word.
Okada said, “I’m sorry Kenny, I’m the best bout machine now” right before Jack Perry jumped Omega from behind.
Although Omega mounted a bit of a comeback, Perry whacked him in the gut with a steel chair, sending him down to the mat. The Young Bucks soon came down to nail him with an EVP Trigger. FTR ran down for the save, chasing The Elite off, but the damage was done. AEW signed off Dynamite this week with Omega laying in the middle of the ring. When Rampage started immediately afterward, they led Omega off on a stretcher. After the initial assault, The Elite stopped EMTs from loading Omega onto an ambulance. They then tipped over the stretcher while Kenny was strapped in, adding insult to injury.
Tony Khan says The Elite has ignited a “power struggle” in AEW and the company plans to have a new “highest-ranking official” onsite for Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite. The Elite shocked the pro wrestling world last Wednesday by attacking Tony Khan one night before his participation in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Jacksonville Jaguars owner generated a ton of media attention for the neck brace he wore at the Draft to sell the effects of the unconscionable attack he sustained.
During an interview with SEScoops correspondent Scott Fishman for TV Insider, Khan said how lucky he is to work with the NFL and appreciates all the concern about his condition. He said he won’t be present for Wednesday’s Dynamite from Winnipeg, but he’s worked remotely in the past throughout the pandemic. The big question is, who will be on top of the totem pole in his absense?
“We all have experience working outside the office. During the lockdown, we got used to meetings on Teams and Zoom. I’ll still be overseeing AEW and managing the show remotely.
As for who will be the highest-ranking official onsite, stay tuned Wednesday. It will certainly be addressed this week on TBS. This power struggle that is happening in AEW.”
As Kevin Nash spoke about on his podcast this week, Tony Khan fired CM Punk when he felt physically threatened. The Elite have taken things much farther than Punk did. What repercussions will they face, if any?
TK Welcomes Kenny Omega’s Return
Kenny Omega is advertised to make his AEW television return when they go to Winnipeg. As another EVP of the company, this could throw a wrench in the Young Bucks’ plans. After all, they did fire him from The Elite a few weeks ago. This will be a big moment for AEW, and Tony Khan is also very excited about that, as he continued plugging the upcoming episode of Dynamite on TBS.
Omega has been out of action due to a diverticulitis attack, one that reportedly required surgery. Although The Cleaner is far from his in-ring clearance, he won’t miss Dynamite in his home city. Khan says, “I can’t wait to have Kenny Omega back in AEW. It’s the perfect time for Kenny to return. I know Kenny Omega has been recovering at home since he was fired from The Elite by The Young Bucks last month. It’s the perfect time for Kenny Omega to return on May 1.”
AEW Dynamite Preview (5/1)
You can find the current lineup for the May 1 episode of AEW Dynamite below.
Chris Jericho vs. Shibata
Adam Copeland vs. TBA
Mariah May vs. Serena Deeb
Kenny Omega’s TV return
Due to a scheduling conflict with the NHL Playoffs, AEW Rampage will air at a different time this week. A three-hour event will air this week on Wednesday, May 1, with a live Rampage following Dynamite. Also, AEW Collision will not broadcast on May 4, due to this conflict with the NHL. AEW’s Saturday night show is set to return to its regular time slot on Saturday, May 11.
Last week’s 4/25 AEW Dynamite from Daily’s Place finished with a a controversial angle that fans are still talking about. Jack Perry made a surprise return and attacked AEW President Tony Khan. The Elite joined in, Perry is now part of the heel faction and there are immediate parallels with the early days of the nWo. After Shad Khan’s son took a microphone shot to the gut followed by a Tony Khan Driver, The Elite stood over their boss in victory. The Young Bucks’ new alliance with Kazuchika Okada and Jack Perry has nWo vibes and the memes have been plentiful on social media.
On this week’s Kliq This podcast, Nash and co-host Sean Oliver reviewed AEW Dynasty and AEW Dynamite, including the controversial angle that led Tony Khan to wear a neck brace for the 2024 NFL Draft. While giving Khan grief for selling a padded microphone shot, Nash compared the segment to WCW’s infamous Finger Poke of Doom (Wikipedia) angle. During a match against Hollywood Hogan on WCW Nitro (January 4, 1999), Nash laid down for Hogan, handing over the WCW title in what’s seen as a low-point for the declining company.
Dynamite viewership was under 700,000, down from the previous week and the lowest since October 2023. Nash fired, back, “Thank God, because they missed the finger poke of doom at the end of this motherf****r.
Neck Brace
Tony Khan went on to sell that attack during both nights of the NFL Draft by wearing a neck brace. He appeared on the NFL Network, where he compared WWE to Harvey Weinstein. Nash didn’t love everything he saw on AEW television this week, but he credited Khan for selling the injury and keeping kayfabe alive with the neck brace.
“The neck brace. The neck brace the following day at the Jaguars. I got to give a little respect to this because I don’t think the NFL or anyone that watches the NFL and not wrestling is going to give a sh*t, but the attempt to do some crossover, respecting the product where he wore the neck brace the next day, it’s a commitment.”
Tony Khan discusses taking the TK Driver from the Bucks and compares WWE to Harvey Weinstein pic.twitter.com/borodQ1GiF
Nash took issue with the fact that CM Punk got fired for roughing up his boss, so how is he going to handle The Elite?
“I just don’t see what it does unless Tony comes back and fires the Executive Vice Presidents for attacking him. He fired.. he got rid of Punk. You can’t have a storyline that shows, a couple weeks earlier, they showed the Punk/Perry altercation, which was nothing.”
Tony Khan and AEW are influenced by pro wrestling history. This new incarnation of The Elite (just one week in) is already drawing comparisons to the nWo, so it was an attention-grabbing segment. Hopefully The Elite sparks a similar level of excitement as Hollywood Hogan, Scott Hall and podcast host Kevin Nash did in 1996.
Jack Perry is once again on AEW programming, and bringing back the ‘Scapegoat’ may be a decision AEW President Tony Khan lives to regret.
Perry made his return to the airwaves during AEW Dynasty. The former FTW Champion interfered in the AEW World Tag Team Championship ladder match and would cost FTR the match to the Young Bucks. This marked Perry’s first AEW on-screen appearance (in person) since AEW All In in August of 2023.
On the April 24, edition of Dynamite, Perry was spotted arriving at the show with the Elite, furthering the idea that there was some sort of alliance between the two sides. Later on, it was revealed that Perry and Khan would come face-to-face in the ring.
During this segment, Perry admitted that he and Khan hadn’t seen eye to eye, but they agreed that they wanted the best for AEW and the future. Having said that, Perry offered a truce to bury the hatchet with the AEW CEO and asked to reinstate him.
Khan agreed but the moment they shook hands, Perry attacked the AEW President. The Elite, consisting of the Bucks and Kazuchika Okada then came to the ring. While it appeared they wanted to stop Perry from inflicting further damage, they also joined in on the attack on Khan.
AEW Dynamite went off the air with the Elite and Perry standing tall while officials and Khan’s father Shahid checked on the injured AEW President. This segment was quite the change for Khan, who unlike Vince McMahon and other higher-ups in WWE, had for the most part avoided being involved with AEW’s on-screen angles.
It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out in the coming weeks, especially with Kenny Omega’s return to AEW TV set for next week’s Dynamite. No doubt the EVP will have plenty to say about the Bucks, Okada, and Perry after what transpired this week.
The pro wrestling world was turned upside down when Kazuchika Okada ended up in AEW. He had a WWE offer on the table, but he decided to join Tony Khan’s roster instead, during AEW Dynamite this week, Okada made his single’s debut, and it was for a title.
Okada battled Eddie Kingston during the March 20th episode of AEW Dynamite. That Continental Title match was a banger, and it saw a new champion crowned.
Okada’s Title Win
Eddie Kingston put his Continental Title on the line against Okada during this week’s Dynamite. Since they operated on Continental Title rules, The Young Bucks were not allowed at ringside.
The Young Bucks were shown backstage, watching on headsets from the producer positions, sitting next to Tony Khan.
This match was stiff, and fans were on fire, chanting for both competitors at certain points. Both Okada and Kingston proved that they are not going to quit without a fight.
Finally, Okada nailed the Rainmaker, and he won the match. We can only assume that Okada will bring a lot of attention to the Continental Title and continue to elevate its stature.
After Okada's win, the Continental title has been split up from the ROH World/NJPW Strong titles according to the AEW roster page. pic.twitter.com/x9kPMbfSQA
After his win, PAC came out to confront Okada. It appears that we know who will face Okada first for his new title. They certainly hyped an eventual match between Okada and The Bastard.
Looks like 'The Bastad' PAC has found the trouble he's been looking for!
Okada was a treasure in NJPW for years, as his matches were proclaimed as some of the in any year. Then he decided to seek out his fortune in America, and he picked AEW.
After joining The Young Bucks, they fired Kenny Omega. It only seems reasonable to assume that an Okada vs Omega match is coming down the line. The Cleaner is currently out of action with diverticulitis, and there is currently no projected timetable for his return.
SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more from all over the pro wrestling world. You never know what can happen next, especially since Okada is now a champion in AEW.
CM Punk and The Elite had it out backstage at AEW All Out last year, but nobody’s allowed to talk about it. The lengths of that non-disclosure agreement stretch pretty far, ensuring that nobody involved in that altercation can divulge anything.
What Happened During Brawl Out
CM Punk went off during the press conference after All Out 2022. He was bloody, hungry, cursing, injured, AEW World Champion and irritated. All of those things culminated in a rant against Colt Cabana and the Young Bucks. When Punk was finished at the media scrum, Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks went to visit Punk’s locker room with AEW’s legal rep to discuss this situation.
CM Punk allegedly threw the first punch, but details are sketchy from that point on. We know that Matt Jackson had a chair thrown at him, and CM Punk’s dog, Larry, may have lost a tooth. In the end, it was incredibly violent, messy, and blew up in no time.
Ace Steel was also involved in the Brawl Out ordeal, and he was fired from AEW due to his involvement. He was accused of biting Kenny Omega during the brawl. Despite being rehired and working remotely after CM Punk’s return, he was let go again shortly after Punk’s firing from AEW.
During an appearance on Wrestling With Rip Rogers, Stephen P. New discussed Brawl Out and the associated NDAs. In response to a question about the lifetime nature of NDAs, the attorney straightforwardly affirmed that they indeed last for life.
Stephen P New simply stated, “yes” when asked if there are lifetime NDAs in place, meaning that nobody can ever speak about that night.
CM Punk did make a crack about how it’s 2023, so you can’t just go around hitting people backstage. That was likely a reference to how he punched Jungle Boy, and not The Elite. That was Brawl In, not Brawl Out.
Legally, The Second City Savior must stay away from any talk about his brawl with The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega in Chicago. Hopefully, they can keep it that way to avoid another legal situation.
AEW Trios Champions The Elite (The Young Bucks & Kenny Omega) put their titles on the line against The House of Black (Brody King, Buddy Matthews & Malakai Black) at the AEW Revolution pay-per-view event from the Chase Center in San Francisco, California.
The match opened with a slow start before a brawl took place. Omega and Matt hit outside dives. King avoided a moonsault by putting up his knees to Omega. The Young Bucks with superkicks to Black and Buddy while King missed a dive in the corner. They did a sequence where everyone took out each other, leading to an AEW chant. There was a spot where Julia Hart got on the apron to distract Omega, but Omega accidentally kneed her in the face and Black with a head kick to Omega for 2. The House of Black with their finisher to Omega for 2. Matt took the pinfall loss.
The House of Black had been doing various teases as a warning to The Elite that they were coming for the Trios Titles in the weeks leading up to the match getting made official.
The Elite defeated Death Triangle (Pac, Penta El Zero M, and Rey Fénix) in an Escalera de la Muerte (ladder match) on the January 11th episode of Dynamite in Inglewood, California, which was the final match in a Best of Seven Series for the championship. The Elite were the inaugural champions crowned at All Out, the night they got into a backstage fight with CM Punk for the comments he made about them, Hangman Page, and Colt Cabana at the press conference.
What are your thoughts on House of Black winning the AEW Trios Titles? Was this the right call by AEW officials? Sound off in the comment section.
Is CM Punk open to returning to All Elite Wrestling given the right circumstances?
Duh!
Punk hasn’t been seen on AEW TV since All Out where he became a two-time World Champion, dethroning Jon Moxley.
The Chicago-Made wrestler’s incendiary comments on the post-show media scrum would lead to a fight backstage, resulting in Punk and others being suspended.
Duh
It is believed that Punk’s time with AEW is coming to an end, with reports that he is seeking a buyout from the promotion.
During this week’s FTR podcast, Dax Harwood spoke about his hope that Punk will be able to return and make amends with The Elite
“This is my plea to all four guys. Please find a way to make it work. If we can make it work, we can set up the future of professional wrestling for a long time.”
Dax Harwood.
Responding to a quote of Harwood’s comments, which added that Punk and the Elite should “just shake hands and say sorry” Punk responded with a simple “Duh.”
CM Punk has reportedly requested a buyout of his AEW deal, something that the company is in no hurry to grant him.
The belief is that AEW’s higher-ups fear Punk will join WWE soon, bringing a ton of attention to their competition.
It has been reported that some in WWE are against the idea of bringing Punk back, believing he will only bring trouble similar to what has been seen in AEW.
The Elite returned at AEW Full Gear at the Prudential Center to a great reaction. They came to the ring to “Carry on Wayward Son” by Kansas and battled Death Triangle in a Trios match.
11 Best Moments from AEW Full Gear 2022
Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks came up short in their return match but it was later announced that they would get another shot at the titles, six of them in fact. Death Triangle are currently in a Best of 7 Series for the Trios Championships.
PAC and the Lucha Brothers are up 2-0, with both matches being one by Death Triangle striking The Elite with a hammer. AEW Dynamite aired from the Wintrust Arena in Chicago last week.
The crowd was all over the place during the match, with some fans chanting “f*** CM Punk!” and “f*** The Elite!”. All Elite Wrestling EVPs Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks took the opportunity to mock CM Punk two and a half months after All Out. Matt Jackson mocked CM Punk for missing the Buckshot Lariat, Kenny Omega did the GTS and bit his opponent.
Booker T discussed Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks mocking CM Punk months after AEW All Out on his Hall of Fame podcast.
The two-time WWE Hall of Famer said he doesn’t see the benefit of rehashing the CM Punk issue again if he’s not coming back and noted that it does nothing for the company.
I’m perplexed on that situation right there just because I don’t think [there] was anything tasteful about it
They’re gonna be heels, they’re going to get booed anyway so leaning into it, it’s just rehashing what happened at the scrum. It does nothing for that company.
Booker T went on to say that it was childish and he’s had beef with wrestlers in the past before but they were able to move passed it. He added that today’s generation of wrestlers doesn’t fear consequences and lacks locker-room etiquette.
I just think it’s childish stuff. I’ve had beef with guys in the business before. We handle it, we squash it, we move on and normally, that’s the way it used to be, but now it’s different.
And now it’s different because now nobody is getting their asses whooped.
No real consequences, no real repercussions, no real men running around. That’s got a lot to do with it. There’s no locker room etiquette, you know what I mean?
CM Punk didn’t appear on this week’s AEW Dynamite, but his presence was certainly felt on Tony Khan’s latest episode on TBS.
Punk has been missing from AEW programming since All Out, due to the backstage fight that took place after the September Pay-Per-View.
With the third-party investigation into the matter concluded, the Elite have been brought back to TV, but it is believed that Punk’s days with AEW are coming to an end.
Dynamite
This week’s AEW Dynamite saw the Elite face AEW Trios Champions Death Triangle in the second match of their best-of-seven series.
Throughout the match, the Elite made reference to Punk and what happened at All Out.
At one point, Kenny Omega bit Pac’s arm, referencing Punk’s trainer Ace Steel biting his arm during the All Out brawl.
Later in the match, Omega would also use the GTS, while Matt Jackson would deliberately fail to hit a Buckshot Lariat, a move Punk messed up during his All Out bout with Jon Moxley.
The Death Triangle would win on Dynamite, going 2-0 in the best-of-seven series.
The Response
The Elite made plenty of references to Punk, despite Kenny Omega’s recent comments that people should move on from All Out.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said these digs did not go unnoticed by Punk’s camp.
“Man, I know that there are people close to cm punk. Boy were they not happy with that six-man tag.”
Dave Meltzer.
Punk has not publicly commented on this week’s AEW Dynamite at this time.
It has been reported that many in AEW have refused to work with the former World Champion again if he is brought back.
This week’s AEW Dynamite may have been in CM Punk’s hometown of Chicago, Illinois, but not everyone in the Windy City is a fan of the former World Champion.
Punk hasn’t appeared for AEW since All Out, and was suspended after the show for his role in the backstage fight.
With the investigation into the matter concluded, it is believed that Punk’s time with the company is finished, with reports that AEW are seeking to buy out his contract.
Dynamite Chants
Even before this week’s Dynamite began, the Elite were expecting a feisty crowd, as the Young Bucks’ Twitter profile reflected.
Sure enough, the crowd was full of chants during the Elite’s match with AEW Trios Champions Death Triangles, as chants of “F*** The Elite!” were heard when Omega and the Bucks were on offense.
CM Punk once called himself the Voice of the Voiceless, speaking up for fans. Well, those fans made their voices heard at last night’s AEW Full Gear Pay-Per-View.
Punk hasn’t been seen on AEW programming since his infamous All Out post-show media scrum in September, which was followed by a backstage fight with The Elite.
With the investigation into the backstage fight over, it is believed the results have condemned Punk, who is expected to depart the promotion.
The Voice of the Voiceless
CM Punk wasn’t at last night’s AEW Full Gear Pay-Per-View, but The Elite made their in-ring return on the show.
In their first match back, the trio of Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks challenged for the AEW Trios titles, which they had won at All Out.
The Elite had been stripped of the titles due to the backstage fight, which were won by the Death Triangle on the following AEW Dynamite.
During the much-anticipated six-man-tag at Full Gear, fans made their voices heard, chanting “F**k CM Punk!” during the opening moments.
Punk mocked Cabana during the All Out media scrum, claiming that Colt shares a bank account with his mother.
CM Punk’s Next Move
With CM Punk’s name in the metaphorical dirt in AEW, it appears that his time with the promotion is about to come to an end.
It has been reported that AEW is attempting to buy out Punk’s contract and release him, with the roster reportedly refusing to work with him if he’s brought back.
Despite the belief that WWE will be the only option that can pay his high asking price, the reception within WWE to Punk possibly returning hasn’t been much warmer.
The Elite (Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks) made their return to AEW television when they challenged Death Triangle (PAC, Penta El Zero M and Rey Fénix) for the Trios Titles at the AEW Full Gear pay-per-view event.
The Elite made their entrance to “Carry On My Wayward Son.” The fans chanted “Fu*k CM Punk” at the beginning of the bout. The match saw Omega work the majority of it and he had some good exchanges with PAC. Omega and Nick Jackson hit outside dives throughout the bout. Matt with a springboard DDT onto the apron to Rey.
Nick with a springboard hurricanrana to Penta off the top rope to the floor. Rey got a hammer when the referee was knocked down, but he tossed it away. Omega hit the V-Trigger to Rey then Tiger Driver 98 for 2. Moments later, Omega with the V-Trigger to Rey then went for the Tiger Driver, but Rey hit him in the head with the hammer after PAC gave it to him for the win.
This past Wednesday on Dynamite, Death Triangle successfully defended the AEW Trios Titles against Top Flight and AR Fox.
After Death Triangle successfully defended the AEW Trios Titles against Top Flight and AR Fox, In a promo, PAC made reference to The Elite’s recent videos teasing a comeback and claimed to know what the videos were all about. PAC advised them to attend Full Gear if they wished to make a return. After PAC ended his promo, a Full Gear graphic with The Elite and Death Triangle fully displayed next to one another came on the video screen to set up the match.
Following CM Punk’s remarks from a media scrum held after All Out in September, The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega were suspended from AEW after they, CM Punk, and Ace Steel got into a brawl. The Elite have since been reinstated as a result of an investigation, and in recent weeks, videos have surfaced hinting at their return.
Posted November 19th, 2022 in AEW. Tagged: The Elite.
After weeks of not-so-subtle teasing, the clock has struck midnight and The Elite are returning.
Following a win over Top Flight and AR Fox, PAC took the mic to address the videos and rumors. “If there are certain individuals in this company who think that they can make their triumphant return this Saturday at Full Gear and if they think they can just mosey in here and best the Death Triangle, well, that’s ridiculous.” PAC then issued a challenge. The screen showed a graphic of Death Triangle without an opponent. Suddenly, The Elite’s picture appeared.
The Elite became inaugural AEW Trios champions back at ALL OUT. It didn’t last long as they were involved in a post ALL OUT brawl with CM Punk and Ace Steele (Larry, the dog was an innocent bystander). This led to suspensions of everyone involved and the stripping of their titles (Punk was AEW World Champion at the time).
On the following Dynamite, Death Triangle faced Best Friends for the vacant Trios championships. Death Triangle went on to win and have defended the titles several times since.
Although The Elite (The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega) have yet to make their return to AEW television, they have been backstage at recent AEW Dynamite events.
As previously reported, Warner Bros. Discovery is filming a behind-the-scenes reality TV show with AEW, although at the time, the talent involved in the show was unknown.
Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that filming is underway, and it’s believed The Elite will be featured on the show. This may explain why the trio has been backstage at recent events before returning to TV following their suspension.
Latest Development
(via AEW)
Meltzer wrote, “They are now filming the AEW reality show each week, starting with the 11/2 show in Baltimore. I believe the Young Bucks and Kenny Omega are part of the show, which may be why they have been in despite not appearing on the television show. At least when the show was conceived, they were a part of it.”
The Elite hasn’t been seen on AEW programming since capturing the Trios Championships at the All Out PPV on September 4th. They were suspended and stripped of the titles due to their involvement in the ‘Brawl Out’ situation with Ace Steel and CM Punk.
In recent weeks, vignettes have aired teasing the trio’s return, leading many fans to believe that The Elite will finally be returning at the Full Gear PPV on November 19th.
The inaugural Trios Champions appear to be on their way back to All Elite Wrestling at the Full Gear PPV on November 19th.
During tonight’s edition of Dynamite, AEW aired another video package featuring The Elite. Kenny Omega and Young Bucks can be seen with Cody Rhodes, Finn Balor, Kevin Owens, and other wrestlers in the video.
The video features graphics from Full Gear and that appears to be the date Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks will return.
Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks defeated Death Triangle at AEW All Out on September 4th to become the first Trios Champions in company history. Their title reign lasted a few days before they were suspended for their part in a backstage brawl following the PPV.
Jon Moxley and CM Punk had a rivalry leading into the PPV. Moxley had won the AEW World Championship from Punk on an episode of Dynamite two weeks before All Out. The legendary Ace Steel talked Punk into accepting Moxley’s Open Challenge for the AEW World Championship at the PPV. CM Punk wound up accepting the challenge and defeated Moxley to become the AEW World Champion for the 2nd time (without a single title defense).
After CM Punk won the title in front of his hometown crowd, he was confronted by MJF to set up the third match in their rivalry. However, that likely will never happen as the former AEW World Champion went on a tirade after the PPV that had very little to do with winning the title ten minutes prior. CM Punk had also torn his triceps during the match, which would likely have resulted in having to forfeit the title.
The rant led to AEW EVPs Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks confronting the champion in his locker room. According to various reports, the door either was kicked open by The Elite and hit Larry the Dog in the face, or The Elite politely knocked. The truth is likely somewhere in between.
What has been confirmed is that a brawl broke out, CM Punk reportedly threw the first punch, Ace Steel hurled a chair at Nick Jackson, bit Kenny Omega, and was fired. The Elite now appear to be on their way back while there has been no word on the status of CM Punk. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has stated that AEW has been negotiating with Punk for a buyout but nothing has come to fruition yet.
The Elite (The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega) have yet to make their return to AEW television, although they have been backstage at recent Dynamite events.
The top tag team has been away from AEW since the All Out brawl with CM Punk and Ace Steel. At All Out, they won the AEW Trios Championships, but they were stripped of the titles because of their suspension.
However, there have been indications that The Elite is on their way back to television as there have been vignettes promoting the “deletion” of the Bucks and Omega in addition to The Young Bucks and Omega being added back to television commercials for Dynamite and Rampage.
The Match
In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that other stuff teased for Full Gear “is Penta & Pac & Rey Fenix vs. Kenny Omega & Young Bucks for the trios titles (I’ve heard this is probable but not 100 percent).”
A Trios Title match has yet to be confirmed for the event, nor who the champions will defend against, but with the Full Gear pay-per-view event taking place next Saturday (November 19th), the match will be announced soon.
Jon Moxley defending the World Title against MJF will serve as the main event.
