Eddie Kingston has been absent from AEW programming for over a year, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his comeback. His anticipated return has sparked speculation about a possible alliance with Jon Moxley, especially considering recent developments in AEW’s landscape.
Kingston’s last appearance involved teaming with Cope (formerly known as Edge) during a feud against the House of Black. In May of last year, during a match with Gabe Kidd, Kingston suffered a serious knee injury that sidelined him indefinitely. Since then, he has made no appearances or public statements related to AEW.
Changes in AEW and Jon Moxley’s Emergence
AEW has undergone significant shifts since Kingston’s injury, notably Jon Moxley’s rise alongside the Death Riders faction. This new dynamic has reshaped the promotion’s storylines, creating a potential pathway for Kingston’s re-entry. Although no official timetable has been announced for Kingston’s return, speculation centers on how he might be reintroduced, particularly through involvement with Moxley and the Death Riders.
The Complex Relationship Between Kingston and Moxley
Eddie Kingston and Jon Moxley share a complicated history in AEW, transitioning from close allies to adversaries. Their rivalry intensified in 2023, when Kingston sided with The Elite against Moxley and the Blackpool Combat Club. Kingston’s animosity stemmed in part from his disdain for some of Moxley’s allies, including Claudio Castagnoli, further straining their past friendship.
Since Kingston was not present when the Death Riders faction was formed, it remains unclear how he feels about the group. His injury hiatus has kept his stance on them a mystery, leaving room for dramatic surprises upon his return.
Possible Scenarios for Kingston’s Return and Alignment
There is a strong possibility that Kingston could return in a startling fashion by joining forces with the Death Riders. Such a move would reunite him with Jon Moxley, but in an unexpected role as an ally rather than opposer. This alliance could provide Kingston with fresh motives and add depth to the faction’s storylines.
In recent times, Kingston has attempted to persuade Moxley to rejoin his side, though Moxley has remained committed to his current path. This ongoing conflict suggests Kingston might make one last emotional appeal. Recovering from a severe injury himself, Kingston could deliver a heartfelt promo urging Moxley to abandon the Death Riders and rekindle their former partnership. How Moxley responds—whether with acceptance or rejection—will be pivotal in shaping future narratives.
Kingston’s Previous Feud and Future Storyline Possibilities
Before his injury, Kingston was embroiled in a heated rivalry with Gabe Kidd over the NJPW Strong Openweight Championship. Their clash culminated at the Resurgence pay-per-view last year, where Kidd emerged as the new champion, coinciding with Kingston’s injury during the event.
AEW might use this unresolved storyline to fuel Kingston’s comeback, positioning him as a member of the Death Riders seeking revenge against Kidd. This development could lead to a highly anticipated rematch, adding another layer of drama to AEW programming.
Complicating matters, Gabe Kidd is presently sidelined due to a knee injury that forced him to forfeit matches in the G1 Climax tournament. The timing of both wrestlers’ recoveries may align, setting the stage for their renewed confrontation once they are back in action.
Fan Expectations and the Impact of Kingston’s Return
Eddie Kingston quickly became a beloved figure in AEW, and his absence has left a noticeable gap. His return is expected to generate significant excitement and discussion among fans and within the wrestling community. Kingston’s potential integration into the Death Riders faction introduces intriguing possibilities for his character and existing storylines, especially in relation to Jon Moxley’s ongoing trajectory.
