Britt Baker, a leading figure in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), recently appeared in public after an extended break, stirring curiosity among fans. Known as a former AEW Women’s World Champion, Baker’s absence since November 2024 has drawn speculation, especially given that she has been reportedly healthy during this time.
Her wrestling career was interrupted abruptly after a victory over Penelope Ford, and rumors about a possible move to WWE circulated but remained unconfirmed. More recently, AEW president Tony Khan has hinted at her return, though no exact timeline has been provided. Baker’s recent attendance at the Super Bowl EA Sports Madden Bowl in San Francisco on February 6 marked her first prominent public outing in over a year.
Industry Voices Question AEW’s Handling of Britt Baker’s Departure
Veteran wrestling figure Dutch Mantell, known in the industry as Dr. D.M.D., expressed criticism over how AEW managed Baker’s hiatus. Speaking on the podcast Story Time, Mantell argued that AEW missed an opportunity to capitalize on her departure from the promotion creatively.
He explained that when wrestlers depart or take breaks, promoters typically arrange for them to “put someone over,” meaning they lose to a rising star to help boost that wrestler’s reputation. In contrast, Baker left AEW immediately following a win, which according to Mantell, did not benefit anyone else on the roster.
“They don’t ever do that. If somebody is leaving and I’m paying them, I’m gonna get something out of them before they leave. Because at least get something on tape. Cause that’s their job. You say, ‘I want you to go out and make this guy look good because all I’m interested in is the finish. I want this guy to beat you,’ Because then they’re gonna leave, and now you don’t have anything on tape to show one of the people you are pushing that they beat this person. I’ve never understood it, and I still don’t understand it. Unless Tony just don’t want to ask them. His company. I’d ask him,” he said.
Mantell’s remarks highlight a common frustration in professional wrestling about maximizing star power and storyline continuity before a talent’s disappearance from a promotion. AEW’s decision to have Baker leave on a winning note might reflect internal choices at the highest levels, including Tony Khan’s leadership style.
What Britt Baker’s Return Could Mean for AEW and Fans
After more than a year out of the spotlight, Britt Baker’s recent public sighting has revived conversations about her future in AEW. Given her status as one of the company’s top female performers, her return could have significant implications for the promotion’s women’s division, which has been eager for fresh storylines and star power.
Fans are watching closely to see whether Baker will resume her wrestling career soon and how AEW will integrate her back into ongoing narratives. Her prolonged absence and the backstage issues rumored to have led to her suspension have added to the tension felt among followers of the sport.
In the coming months, the wrestling world will likely see if AEW can capitalize on Britt Baker’s talent in a way that also benefits other rising stars, addressing some of the concerns raised by industry veterans about building new champions in her absence.
