Jon Moxley, the reigning Continental Champion, is set to defend his title against Konosuke Takeshita at AEW Grand Slam Australia 2026. After overcoming a series of defeats last year to claim the championship from Kazuchika Okada, Moxley has solidified himself as a resilient and determined competitor. Fans and analysts alike are already eyeing potential challengers who could step up to face him following this high-stakes event.
Potential Clash with Tommaso Ciampa
Tommaso Ciampa made a notable entrance into AEW earlier this year, marking his debut by defeating Mark Briscoe to capture the TNT Championship. Although his reign was brief after losing the title to Kyle Fletcher on Dynamite this week, this setback could be strategic in building his momentum toward bigger goals. AEW President Tony Khan appears to be positioning Ciampa for a shot at Jon Moxley’s Continental Championship, a matchup that many fans have eagerly anticipated. A confrontation between Ciampa and Moxley promises intense action and is likely to generate substantial interest among wrestling enthusiasts.
Kazuchika Okada’s Drive for Redemption
Kazuchika Okada has experienced a remarkable AEW journey, at one point holding the International, Continental, and Unified Championships at the same time. However, his title run was interrupted when Jon Moxley defeated him for the Continental Championship last year. True to his competitive nature, Okada is expected to strategize his return to the title scene, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch. This rivalry carries a strong narrative and is poised to deliver a memorable showdown that will captivate the AEW audience.
Kyle Fletcher’s Rising Ambitions
Kyle Fletcher’s career trajectory has surged since aligning with Don Callis, emerging as a premier competitor in AEW. Breaking free from Will Ospreay‘s shadow, Fletcher has secured significant victories against leading figures such as Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada. Currently holding the TNT Championship, Fletcher is a major focus of Tony Khan’s promotional efforts. There is growing anticipation that Fletcher will aim to challenge Jon Moxley for the Continental Championship, which could lead to him becoming a double champion. Given Fletcher’s in-ring prowess and track record, this potential rivalry could provide compelling moments and elevate the competition surrounding Moxley’s title reign.
With AEW Grand Slam Australia approaching, Jon Moxley’s upcoming defense is just the beginning of what may be a thrilling series of contests. Matches against contenders like Tommaso Ciampa, Kazuchika Okada, and Kyle Fletcher each offer unique storylines and high-stakes encounters that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. The unfolding rivalries promise to shape the direction of AEW championships and maintain Jon Moxley’s position as one of the promotion’s most formidable champions.
Tommaso Ciampa’s full debut entrance in AEW!#AEWDynamite
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) January 29, 2026
