This week in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) saw significant developments both in the ring and behind the scenes, with the focus on the surprising silence surrounding Darby Allin’s AEW return silence, as well as the ongoing domination of FTR in the AEW Tag Team tournament. Additionally, Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) continued to create stirring drama, escalating tensions within The Hurt Syndicate.
As wrestling fans reflect on the recent passing of Hulk Hogan, a pivotal figure in wrestling history, AEW paid respectful tribute on their Collision show with Tony Schiavone’s brief but fitting speech. Meanwhile, the buildup between Jon Moxley and Hangman Adam Page continued to intensify, setting the stage for an exciting AEW World Title confrontation.
FTR Strengthens Their Grip on AEW Tag Team Competition
FTR, consisting of Cash Wheeler and Dax Harwood, has been the standout team in AEW’s recent Tag Team division resurgence. The duo boasts the highest number of wins in AEW tag team history and has maintained an unbeaten streak in straight tag matches since April 2024’s AEW Dynasty event, only interrupted by draws and a fall loss in multi-fall formats.
Currently competing in a tournament designed to determine the next challengers for the AEW World Tag Team Titles, FTR has advanced past their opening round victory over Jet Speed. Their upcoming opponents, Austin Gunn and Juice Robinson — known as The Bang Bang Gang — present an unorthodox pairing but one that FTR is widely expected to overcome. Beyond that, the rest of the tournament bracket features familiar rivalries and emerging threats such as The Outrunners, The Young Bucks, Gates of Agony, and Brodido (Brody King and Bandido). While these teams have shown capability, none have matched FTR’s presentation and momentum.
FTR’s motivation has been fueled recently by a harsh assault from The Hurt Syndicate, led by Adam Copeland, signaling a brewing rivalry. Given MJF’s history with FTR from their time in The Pinnacle faction, their paths crossing again adds a compelling narrative layer to the tournament’s stakes.
MJF’s Growing Arrogance Escalates Conflict Within The Hurt Syndicate
Maxwell Jacob Friedman, known simply as MJF, remains one of AEW’s most captivating personalities, despite his infrequent in-ring appearances. His ability to dominate promos and control storylines keeps him highly relevant each week. This week revealed a significant crack in the solidarity of The Hurt Syndicate, suggesting potential internal conflicts may intensify ahead.
MJF’s arrogance is on full display, backed by his secured opportunity to challenge Hangman Adam Page for the AEW World Title. Outside of wrestling, MJF is gaining mainstream exposure, starring as one of Happy Gilmore’s sons in the popular streaming movie Happy Gilmore 2, which currently ranks as the nation’s top streaming film with positive critical reception.
“What is this guy going to say this week?”
—Unnamed Commentator
This week’s promos from MJF are anticipated to continue in the same vein of his usual confident and provocative style, likely deepening existing storylines and rivalries.
Growing Concerns Over Darby Allin’s Limited Presence Since Return
Despite his impressive return to AEW two weeks ago, Darby Allin’s screen time has been minimal, totaling roughly 17 seconds. This sparse use raises concerns among fans and commentators who hoped for a stronger comeback presence from one of AEW’s most popular wrestlers.
The current creative approach seems to lean into a “Sting-like” silent, mysterious mentality. Sting, the legendary WCW franchise player, famously cultivated an aura of mystique through long silent stints and rooftop appearances; however, many argue that Darby has yet to establish comparable gravitas.
Since sustaining a brutal attack by the Death Riders—where he was thrown down the stairs during the final Rampage of 2024—Darby’s only significant on-screen material has been a five-second video clip aired at All In Texas more than seven months ago. Fans are eager for a clear mission or statement from him, particularly as it appears his primary objective is to take down the Death Riders.
Many believe that the situation can be reversed simply by giving Darby more screen time and allowing him to craft a narrative vignette, helping him communicate his goals directly to the audience.
Jet Speed Struggles to Gain Traction Amid AEW Tag Division Challenges
Jet Speed, while recently competing for the AEW World Tag Titles, has faced a difficult stretch with only one victory against three losses in their last four matches. Their rapid elevation into title contention has come under scrutiny, as they appear to be in the early stages of establishing themselves.
This mirrors similar patterns previously seen with Megan Bayne, who earned a title shot only after a ten-match winning streak, and who has maintained a solid winning record since defeat. Jet Speed’s current trajectory suggests that to become a lasting presence in AEW, they must secure more wins.
The AEW Tag Division has been noted for having relatively few established babyface teams, making Jet Speed’s role as a classic fan-favorite duo all the more important. However, their future direction and ability to resonate with audiences remain uncertain.
Looking Forward: AEW’s Storylines Poised for Shifts and Climaxes
As AEW continues to build excitement, the ongoing storyline drama promises more intense confrontations. FTR’s dominance in the tag team tournament positions them as frontrunners to claim the next title shot, especially against the backdrop of The Hurt Syndicate’s looming challenge and MJF’s escalating arrogance. Meanwhile, the delayed yet anticipated emergence of Darby Allin could provide a pivotal storyline once he receives more in-ring and on-screen opportunities.
MJF’s expanding role both inside the ring and in mainstream media adds a new dimension to AEW’s narrative landscape, while Jon Moxley’s rivalry with Hangman Adam Page is primed to deliver a high-stakes AEW World Title match.
Collectively, these intersecting storylines illustrate AEW’s strategy to blend fresh tournament action with long-term storytelling, aiming to maintain fan engagement as the wrestling year progresses.
