Buddy Matthews injury update and AEW return status remain uncertain, as the former World Trios Champion continues to recover from an ankle injury that has kept him off All Elite Wrestling television since February 2024. The Australian wrestler’s absence leaves fans and the promotion alike waiting for clearer news about when he might make his comeback.
Recent Developments on Matthews’ Status
Buddy Matthews, who debuted for AEW in 2022 by aligning with Malakai Black and Brody King, became part of what was famously known as the House of Black. Since Aleister Black’s return to WWE, Matthews, King, and Julia Hart have stayed active in AEW, rebranding their stable as The Hounds of Hell. Despite the new group dynamic, Matthews has been off the roster since failing to capture the Continental Championship from Kazuchika Okada at the Grand Slam Australia event.
The injury, sustained during Matthews’ entrance at the event, was confirmed as an ankle issue. This setback came at a time where other notable names, such as Mariah May, Scorpio Sky, and Danhausen, have also been noticeably absent from AEW programming. Comparisons have been drawn, but while Mariah may be heading to WWE, both Scorpio Sky and Danhausen remain under contract with AEW, potentially available for future appearances when called upon.
Matthews’ absence follows his last in-ring appearance during the Zero Hour pre-show before Worlds End 2023, where he participated in a TNT Title contenders’ battle royal. Meanwhile, Scorpio Sky last wrestled for AEW in September 2023 against Andrade El Idolo, with nothing significant materializing from his subsequent involvement on Rampage. These developments highlight the unpredictable nature of AEW’s roster as injuries and contract situations create uncertainty around fan-favorite performers.
Buddy Matthews Shares Details About His Injury and Recovery Process
In a conversation with Chris Van Vliet, Buddy Matthews opened up about the extent of his ankle injury and how it has impacted his training and possible AEW return. Matthews provided direct insight into his health and ongoing rehabilitation process:
“It’s okay. Rolled it pretty, pretty bad[ly]. I had [an] X-ray [and an] MRI. There was no break, but there was, like, a partial ligament tear and cartilage damage. Yeah, [I’m] walking. I haven’t run. I haven’t jumped. I’ve just started implementing cardio, but then it kind of stiffens up, and you know, we’re working through it,” Buddy said. (H/T WrestlingINC.)
This statement reflects both frustration and dedication, as the 36-year-old grappler works meticulously toward recovery, carefully following medical advice to avoid aggravating the injury. The absence of any timeline for full fitness keeps supporters and AEW’s creative team guessing about when Matthews could finally make a return to the ring.
Outlook for Matthews and AEW’s Evolving Roster
As Matthews continues his road to recovery, AEW faces ongoing challenges with roster management and creative direction due to injuries and shifting contracts. While Scorpio Sky and Danhausen wait for their next opportunities, and Mariah May’s future appears to be with WWE, the company must adapt to ensure fresh storylines and maintain fan interest.
Buddy Matthews injury update and AEW return status are topics of keen interest for fans, especially as AEW evolves post-Grand Slam. The wrestling world will be watching closely for any official announcement on Matthews’ return, with the potential impact on AEW’s factions and championship pursuits hanging in the balance.
