WWE is preparing a significant event slated for September 20, 2025, directly competing with All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) All Out pay-per-view, featuring a high-profile match between Brock Lesnar and John Cena. This strategic decision aims to challenge AEW’s growing presence by leveraging two of WWE’s top stars in a prime-time showdown.
Lesnar made a dramatic return to WWE at SummerSlam 2025 by attacking John Cena following The Unseen 17’s match against Cody Rhodes. Reports indicate WWE purposely withheld Lesnar from their Clash in Paris event to build anticipation for this headlining bout, signaling WWE’s intent to counter AEW’s marquee offering with maximum impact.
Changes Behind the Scenes in AEW Casting Spotlight on Talent and Departures
AEW continues to experience notable shifts backstage, highlighted by the recent departure of Ron Edwardsen, the designer behind several of AEW’s championship belts. After six years contributing to AEW and Ring of Honor, Edwardsen shared his farewell via Instagram, thanking Tony Khan for the opportunities provided.
Additionally, AEW original Angelico has transitioned primarily into a coaching and producer role. Over the past year, the South African wrestler has focused on talent development and match planning, reducing his in-ring appearances to only two matches on AEW Collision in 2025. His tag team partner, Serpentico, has also maintained a backstage production position within AEW, further emphasizing a shift toward nurturing new talent from behind the scenes.
Veteran Commentator Jim Ross Returning to Oklahoma
Jim Ross, the WWE Hall of Famer and legendary wrestling commentator who has been with AEW since 2019, is preparing to move back to his home state of Oklahoma after residing in Jacksonville, Florida. On his Grilling JR podcast, Ross explained his decision, highlighting health considerations and his preference for returning to familiar surroundings where his longtime physicians are based.
“I’m moving toward that Oklahoma move because I’m going home. I love it. I’m going back to Oklahoma. I’ve got my buddies there, and several of them are doctors. I don’t have to get used to or get acquainted with new physicians. When you get to be my age at 73, even though I’m healthy right now and cancer-free, you still want to know that if you need a doctor, you can see one without jumping through hoops,” he said. —Jim Ross, Wrestling Commentator
Wardlow Signals Possible Return Amid Injury Hiatus
Former TNT Champion Wardlow, who has been absent from AEW television since March 2024 due to injury, appears poised to return soon. Sources report that Wardlow has recovered and was spotted backstage during a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, though he did not appear on-screen.
Wardlow posted an Instagram story featuring an episode of INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet, where members of The Hurt Syndicate were guests. This has sparked speculation among fans about whether Wardlow might join the faction, replace MJF, or engage in a new rivalry for the World Tag Team Championship. Despite the excitement, no official announcement about his comeback has been made.
AEW Faces Increasing Competition as WWE Boosts Its Star Power
The announcement of Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena represents WWE‘s most direct confrontation to date with AEW’s largest annual event. By scheduling a premium live event on the same night as AEW’s All Out, WWE is clearly investing heavily in counterprogramming efforts designed to reclaim viewership and market share.
AEW’s backstage talent adjustments and Wardlow’s potential return add layers of intrigue to the wrestling landscape, indicating dynamic shifts that promote future storylines and rivalries. Meanwhile, Jim Ross’s relocation may signify personal changes amid this evolving wrestling environment.
As Brock Lesnar All Out 2025 approaches, fans can anticipate one of the most consequential clashes in recent wrestling history, with WWE aggressively positioning itself against AEW’s expanding influence in the industry.
