Bryan Danielson has officially transitioned into a full-time commentator role for AEW as of the September 10 episode of AEW Dynamite in Jacksonville. The former AEW World Champion was welcomed to the announce team alongside Excalibur and Taz, with the crowd responding enthusiastically to this unexpected change. This marks a notable shift for Danielson, who has stepped away from regular in-ring competition but remains actively involved in the promotion.
Danielson’s move to commentary follows recent overseas promotional work in Australia and a praised stint at the Forbidden Door event, which impressed AEW President Tony Khan enough to solidify Danielson’s place on the broadcast team. While Danielson has retired from wrestling full-time, there is still some uncertainty about a possible return dependent on his health.
Former AEW Champion’s Wrestling Future Considered Unlikely
During the Dynamite broadcast, Excalibur addressed Danielson’s future in the ring, suggesting that his active wrestling career is probably over. As he welcomed Danielson to the announce booth, Excalibur described the former AEW World Champion’s competitive wrestling days as being behind him.
“Danielson is joining us as a member of the announce team. His competitive in-ring days are behind him,” said Excalibur
Danielson had previously confirmed his full retirement after losing the AEW World Championship to Jon Moxley at WrestleDream 2024, although he has since made rare appearances in non-wrestling roles, most notably in commentary, where his insightful delivery has been praised.
Former TNT Champion Daniel Garcia Joins Death Riders in Surprise Turn
In a dramatic twist on the same episode of Dynamite, Daniel Garcia, the ex-TNT Champion, shocked fans by turning heel and pledging allegiance to the Death Riders faction. Hints of this alliance had been foreshadowed by Jon Moxley, who had been seen encouraging Garcia backstage to embrace his darker potential. Moxley’s narrow wins over Garcia recently appeared to fuel Garcia’s frustrations, culminating in the heel turn.
In the main event, after Moxley and his teammates Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, and The Young Bucks defeated Brodido and The Opps, the Death Riders attacked Samoa Joe. Darby Allin rushed to defend Joe, but Garcia suddenly assaulted Allin, drawing boos from the crowd and confirming his new darker alignment within AEW.
MJF Sparks Controversy With Disrespectful Remarks About Wife Alicia Atout
One of AEW’s most polarizing figures, MJF, again stirred tensions during a backstage promo by making a disrespectful comment about his recently married wife, Alicia Atout. Speaking during an intense confrontation with Mark Briscoe, MJF referred to Atout as a “silly little b**ch” and explained that their honeymoon was delayed until after his anticipated fight with Briscoe.
Atout responded publicly on social media, calling out her husband’s rude behavior.
“MAXWELL. JACOB. FRIEDMAN. RUDE MUCH… 😭.” —Alicia Atout
Despite the controversy, the couple had only recently married on September 5 after over two years of dating. MJF is scheduled to face Briscoe at the AEW All Out 2025 event, setting the stage for further tension.
Significance and Future Outlook for AEW Storylines and Talent Roles
Bryan Danielson’s shift to commentary represents a major change in AEW’s landscape, as one of the company’s most respected wrestlers transitions to a permanent broadcast role, providing valuable insights and maintaining his presence despite stepping away from active competition. This move allows AEW to retain his star power while preserving his health and future options.
The unexpected heel turn by Daniel Garcia and his alliance with the Death Riders signals heightened faction warfare within AEW, promising more intense rivalries and storyline developments. Meanwhile, MJF’s continued provocative behavior, especially regarding his personal relationships, adds real-life tension to his ongoing feud with Mark Briscoe, keeping fans deeply engaged and anticipating their upcoming showdown.
Overall, these developments indicate a period of evolving roles and escalating drama within AEW, with significant implications for future programming and talent direction.
