Buddy Matthews Drops Big AEW Return Hint During Hiatus

Australian AEW wrestler Buddy Matthews has been sidelined from competition following a significant ankle injury sustained in February 2025 during the AEW Grand Slam Australia event. After undergoing surgery in August, Matthews has been focusing on his rehabilitation but recently shared a hint on social media suggesting that his return to AEW action could be near. This development generates excitement about Buddy Matthews AEW future among fans.

Prior to his injury, Matthews was gaining strong momentum in AEW, but the accident during his match entrance against Kazuchika Okada interrupted his progress. Throughout his recovery, he has maintained a formidable physique and kept fans updated, fueling speculation about when he will rejoin the active roster.

Rhea Ripley’s Road to WrestleMania 42 After Tag Team Success

While Buddy Matthews continues his recovery, his wife, WWE superstar Rhea Ripley, is refocusing on her singles career after months competing in the women’s tag team division. As part of the tag team Rhiyo with IYO Sky, Ripley had achieved championship success but the pair lost the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships to Nia Jax and Lash Legend on SmackDown’s February 27 episode.

Following the title loss, Ripley swiftly rebounded by winning the WWE Women’s Elimination Chamber match the very next night. This victory secured her the opportunity to challenge Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 42. Ripley also announced her switch from RAW to SmackDown to advance her feud with Cargill heading into the marquee event, underscoring her determination to capture the title.

Upcoming Implications for Matthews and Ripley in Wrestling

Buddy Matthews’ indication of a forthcoming return to AEW action is a positive sign for the promotion and his fans, marking a potential resurgence in his wrestling career. Meanwhile, Rhea Ripley’s rise toward a major WrestleMania title match highlights her growing prominence within WWE. As Ripley prepares for a high-profile showdown at WrestleMania 42, audiences will be watching closely to see if she can dethrone Jade Cargill and elevate her status further.

Together, the couple represents prominent figures in their respective wrestling companies, with Matthews’ recovery and hint at reemergence complementing Ripley’s quest for championship glory in WWE.

Thomas Schultz
Thomas Schultz
Thomas Schultz is a journalist at CynicalTimes.org, covering the AEW Men’s Division. With one year of experience, he reports on match results, storyline developments, and the rising stars shaping All Elite Wrestling. Thomas brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to accurate, engaging coverage of AEW’s top talent and weekly action. His writing captures the energy, rivalries, and momentum behind one of wrestling’s fastest-growing promotions. From major title bouts to emerging contenders, Thomas keeps fans up to date on everything happening in the AEW men’s roster.