In the latest round of AEW news, wrestling analyst Sam Roberts proposed a blockbuster pitch for Jon Moxley that has reignited speculation about the rising star’s potential WWE return. Reflecting on AJ Lee’s comeback to WWE after a long absence, Roberts called Moxley’s return “earth-shattering,” stressing the massive impact it would have on the industry.
“If Dean Ambrose came back to the WWE. If Ambrose came back, it would be Earth-shattering,” said Roberts.
Jon Moxley, formerly known as Dean Ambrose in WWE, made his mark as part of The Shield alongside Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins from 2011 to 2019. During his WWE career, he secured three Intercontinental Championships and one WWE Championship. Since moving to AEW, Moxley has become a four-time AEW World Champion and one of the promotion’s top stars, contributing significantly to AEW’s growth and visibility.
Bryan Danielson Critiques WWE’s Competitive Approach and AEW’s Role
Bryan Danielson, an influential AEW wrestler, has publicly expressed frustration with WWE’s recent strategies, particularly their efforts to counter AEW programming. Danielson criticized the WWE’s aggressive tactics in sidelining competitive rivals, asserting that both companies’ coexistence ultimately benefits wrestlers.
“It’s one of the things where people who really crave power and a lot of money play these weird games that I don’t understand. It’s like, okay, we’re going to run all the competitors that might be competitive with us out of this business. Why? It’s good for the wrestlers both in AEW and WWE,” said Danielson.
Danielson also highlighted the importance of AEW in revitalizing wrestling careers, referencing stars like Cody Rhodes and CM Punk. According to him, neither would be where they are today without AEW’s existence.
“If AEW wouldn’t have started, would Cody Rhodes be where he is right now? No. They have a megastar because AEW exists. Would CM Punk ever have come back? Probably not.” [H/T WrestlePurists on X ]
Dustin Rhodes Provides Health Update After Surgery
Wrestling veteran Dustin Rhodes has shared an update on his recovery following recent surgery and injury setbacks. Rhodes suffered a loss to Kyle Fletcher during a Chicago Street Fight match on AEW’s Collision show, resulting in him losing the TNT Championship—a title he had won recently at the All In event during a Fatal 4-Way match against formidable opponents Sammy Guevara, Fletcher, and Daniel Garcia.
Rhodes revealed on social media that he is healing progressively and taking “baby steps” toward full recovery after undergoing double knee replacement surgery. At 55 years old, he remains uncertain when he might return to active competition, but fans remain hopeful for his future appearances within the Jacksonville-based promotion.
Bryan Danielson’s Uncertain Future Raises Concern Among Fans
Despite being one of AEW’s most popular performers, Bryan Danielson has recently voiced doubts about continuing his wrestling career after losing his World Title to Jon Moxley at WrestleDream 2024. In a candid interview with The Kairouz Bros, Danielson admitted he might never wrestle on television again, casting uncertainty over a potential appearance at AEW’s Grand Slam event in Australia set for 2026.
I’m not sure that’s what Australia wants to see: 45 minutes of Bryan Danielson doing Hammerlocks.” said Danielson. [H/T: Fightful]
His tone shifted while discussing his physical condition, acknowledging that although his wrestling intellect remains sharp, his body does not fully cooperate. This reality has him contemplating the future of his in-ring career amid ongoing physical challenges.
Industry Implications and What to Expect Next
The possibility of Jon Moxley returning to WWE after years of AEW success has stirred significant excitement and speculation within the wrestling community. If such a move occurs, it would not only disrupt the current dynamics among promotions but also elevate competition between major wrestling organizations. Bryan Danielson’s concerns about WWE’s strategies and his own career uncertainty underscore broader tensions within the industry.
Meanwhile, Dustin Rhodes’ recovery remains a closely watched story, as fans and peers alike hope to see the veteran back in the ring. As AEW continues to grow, the evolving careers of key stars like Moxley, Danielson, and Rhodes will play pivotal roles in shaping the future of professional wrestling.
