Jon Moxley AEW Continental Champion is facing considerable speculation about who might be the first to topple his title reign, following his major victory at the AEW Worlds End event in Illinois. After triumphing in the finals of the Continental Classics 2025 by defeating Kazuchika Okada, Moxley took his place as the new champion, sparking high expectations and fueling debates among wrestling fans about potential challengers who could seize the championship in 2026.
The Rise of Jon Moxley as Continental Champion
Jon Moxley’s win at the AEW Worlds End event marked a significant turn in the All Elite Wrestling landscape. His victory was pivotal, not only crowning him as the AEW Continental Champion but also cementing a babyface transformation for “The Purveyor of Violence” within the Jacksonville-based promotion. The intense atmosphere at the Now Arena in Illinois amplified the impact of his win, setting the stage for a promising but possibly brief reign.
With growing anticipation, the wrestling community is keen to see how Moxley carries the prestigious title as the leader of the Death Riders. Speculation is rife about which star will achieve the honor of defeating the former AEW World Champion. Whoever emerges as the new champion will assuredly secure their place in wrestling history, given the prominence of this reign and Moxley’s stature in the company.
Bobby Lashley: A Potential Challenger Waiting in the Wings
Bobby Lashley is currently sidelined due to an injury suffered during his match at Full Gear in November. However, his possible return in the coming months fuels rumors about his involvement in a key storyline upon reentering AEW. The excitement surrounding Lashley, a former WWE Champion, makes him one of the strongest candidates to challenge Jon Moxley for the AEW Continental Championship.
Fans are eager for a compelling rivalry between Lashley and Moxley. If Lashley engages in a feud with Moxley, he has a strong chance to claim the title, potentially energizing his AEW career as “The All Mighty.” A mid-card reign would help Lashley regain momentum within the promotion. Moreover, a defeat for Moxley at the hands of a respected veteran like Lashley would not diminish Moxley’s status as a formidable competitor.
Andrade: Returning to the Spotlight
Andrade, following a public dispute with WWE, is set to appear at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 20 and is widely expected to return to AEW soon after. This looming comeback increases speculation that Andrade will be positioned in a marquee angle to restore his status within the promotion. Given Tony Khan’s ambition to strengthen AEW’s reach in Mexico City, Andrade is seen as a major asset who could become a focal point by challenging for the AEW Continental Championship.
A rivalry between Andrade and Moxley would offer high-stakes drama and provide a platform for rediscovery in both men’s careers. A victory over Moxley for the AEW Continental Championship could mark a monumental moment for Andrade, both for his personal legacy and for AEW’s expansion into new markets, solidifying him as a key figure within the organization.
Claudio Castagnoli: The Inner Faction Threat
Claudio Castagnoli and Jon Moxley are currently allied in the Death Riders, but recent hints suggest a looming conflict within the group. If a division within the faction occurs, Castagnoli could become a contender for the AEW Continental Championship, setting up a dramatic storyline between the two teammates.
The wrestling community remembers the intensity of their most recent battle on AEW Dynamite, fueling hopes for another high-profile clash. Should Castagnoli defeat Moxley, it would not only crown him as champion but could also signal the beginning of Castagnoli’s rise as a main event star in AEW. Such a storyline, pitting former allies against each other for the title, promises to captivate audiences and inject further excitement into AEW’s programming.
In the coming months, all eyes will remain on the AEW Continental Championship. Whether it’s a returning Bobby Lashley, a revitalized Andrade, or a factional showdown with Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley’s reign is set to be tested by some of the promotion’s most compelling talents. The outcome of these prospective rivalries will shape the championship’s legacy and AEW’s direction as new contenders step forward.
