Adam Cole, a prominent AEW star, had returned from a leg injury last year and was enjoying a successful period. After ending his feud with MJF, Cole challenged Daniel Garcia for the TNT Championship and claimed the title. He was set to defend the championship against Kyle Fletcher at the All In: Texas event, but just before the show, it was announced that Cole was injured and unable to compete. He relinquished the TNT Championship at that event due to concussion complications, with the decision to sideline him coming shortly before the match. This update adds Adam Cole to the list of AEW wrestlers currently out with serious injuries.
Buddy Matthews’ Ankle Injury and Absence
Buddy Matthews had been gaining momentum, appearing ready for a significant singles push. Earlier this year, he challenged Kazuchika Okada for the AEW Continental Championship at the Grand Slam Australia event. Unfortunately, Matthews injured his ankle during his entrance but still completed the match. Since then, he has not appeared on AEW programming. He was seen on crutches during a vacation with Rhea Ripley, but there is no current word on his expected return date.
Eddie Kingston’s Recovery from Knee Injury
Eddie Kingston enjoyed a remarkable year in 2023, simultaneously holding the AEW Continental, ROH World, and NJPW STRONG Openweight Championships. After losing two of these titles, he defended the NJPW STRONG Openweight Title in a No Rope Last Man Standing match against Gabe Kidd at NJPW STRONG Resurgence last year. During this match, Kingston suffered a torn ACL and meniscus but managed to finish the bout. He has been sidelined since and is undergoing rehabilitation. Kingston has been training intensely with fitness coach Cezar Bononi and recently shared an update stating he is healthy and preparing for his comeback, though he must finalize some matters before returning to the ring.
Orange Cassidy’s Pec Injury After Eliminator Match
Orange Cassidy had been a consistent competitor for AEW during his reign as International Champion, successfully defending the title multiple times. Since losing the championship, Cassidy has aimed to re-enter the title scene. On the March 19 episode of Dynamite, he participated in an International Title Elimination match against Mark Davis, Ricochet, and Mike Bailey. Cassidy suffered a torn pectoral muscle during this contest and has been out of action since. The timeline for his return remains uncertain.
The Impact of These Injuries on AEW’s Roster
With Adam Cole, Buddy Matthews, Eddie Kingston, and Orange Cassidy all sidelined by serious injuries, AEW has seen several key stars temporarily removed from active competition. These absences affect title scenes and storylines, leaving fans eager to see how the promotion adapts. The recovery progress of each wrestler will be closely followed as they work toward their respective returns. AEW’s approach to managing these injuries will be crucial for maintaining momentum and ensuring the health and safety of its top talent.
