A prominent AEW Champion, Kyle Fletcher, recently mentioned former NXT Champion Adam Cole amid Cole’s ongoing absence from wrestling events. The mention came after Cole was forced to vacate the AEW TNT Championship due to a serious health issue, disrupting plans for a significant match scheduled between the two at All In Texas in July.
Adam Cole had been set to defend his TNT title against Kyle Fletcher during the All In Texas event, spotlighting what fans anticipated as a major showdown. However, Cole’s unexpected health condition led to him relinquishing the championship, surprising the AEW audience and leaving the match cancelled. Fletcher brought up this cancellation during a backstage promo following the latest episode of Collision, ahead of his upcoming TNT title defense against Kyle O’Reilly on Dynamite’s Title Tuesday.
Kyle Fletcher Recalls Cancelled Title Bout and Upcoming Match
In a recent promo, Kyle Fletcher reflected on the turned-down opportunity to face Adam Cole for the TNT Championship. Fletcher said,
“That was one by one upto facing Adam Cole for this championship and we know how that turned out.”
The AEW TNT Champion has held the title since July and is now preparing to defend it against O’Reilly, who presents a strong challenge this Tuesday.
Fletcher expressed his ambition to become the greatest TNT Champion in AEW history as he moves forward with this title defense, indicating his commitment to cementing a lasting legacy amid the changing landscape caused by Cole’s hiatus.
Jim Cornette Voices Worries Over Adam Cole’s Health
The situation surrounding Adam Cole has drawn concern from veteran wrestling personality Jim Cornette, who addressed Cole’s condition during his Drive-Thru podcast. Cornette observed noticeable changes in Cole since his return, remarking that the wrestler appeared “smaller” and “frailer.” He speculated that Cole might have pushed himself too far, saying:
“Since he’s been back, he’s getting smaller. He’s getting frailer. I’m thinking that maybe he’s been doing it when he shouldn’t have been doing it… I’m more worried about him than his bad booking in f—ing AEW… I feel so bad for him. I like that kid and, but, and I know it’s what he’s always wanted to do, and he was doing it well, but goddamn, don’t kill yourself. Literally.”
– Jim Cornette, Wrestling Personality
Cornette’s remarks highlight the concern from within the wrestling community regarding Cole’s health and future in the sport. Fans remain uncertain about when Cole will return to active competition.
Implications for AEW and What to Expect Next
Adam Cole’s situation has impacted AEW’s TNT Championship picture significantly, reshaping the roster and match bookings. Kyle Fletcher’s rise as the reigning champion and his upcoming match against Kyle O’Reilly will be key moments to watch, as Fletcher aims to seize lasting recognition during Cole’s absence.
Adam Cole’s hiatus serves as a reminder of the physical toll wrestling can impose, raising questions about his long-term prospects and the need for careful management of his health. AEW fans await updates on Cole’s recovery and potential return, while storylines adapt to evolving circumstances within the promotion.
EXCLUSIVE: "My purposes is to become the greatest TNT Champion of all time!"@KyleFletcherPro is ready defend his title vs @KORCombat on TITLE TUESDAY! pic.twitter.com/y2nen4Qd08
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) October 5, 2025
