Jay White, a prominent wrestler recognized for his role in AEW, made his first public wrestling-related appearance in months, but not in the Jacksonville-based promotion that elevated his American profile. The Jay White wrestling return came instead at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 20, marking a major moment for fans following his injury-induced hiatus.
Jay White’s AEW Journey and Recent Absence
Since joining AEW in 2022, Jay White quickly became a central figure due to his dynamic charisma and top-tier wrestling abilities. Known as “The Switchblade,” White led the Bang Bang Gang faction and captured Trios Championship gold with Austin and Colten Gunn. His momentum soared into early 2025 with main-event appearances, including deep involvement in Adam Copeland’s rivalry with the Death Riders. However, White’s trajectory shifted in March 2025, when a legitimate hand injury forced him out of in-ring competition, putting all storylines on pause.
Return Spotlight at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20
The news of Jay White appearing at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 20 was significant, as NJPW is where he first achieved elite status before signing with All Elite Wrestling. White was in attendance for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement ceremony, a respected gesture given Tanahashi’s legendary career. This event attracted many major wrestling figures and White’s participation was seen as a sign of respect for his roots in Japanese wrestling. While he was not involved as a competitor, White’s presence energized discussions about his possible in-ring return and kept the anticipation among fans high.
Altered Plans in AEW Due to Injury
Prior to his hand injury, reports suggest Jay White was set for a major storyline within AEW. There were strong indications that Tony Khan and AEW management were preparing to integrate White into the Death Riders group, led by Jon Moxley. During a feud with the Death Riders, White was reportedly supposed to interfere in Swerve Strickland’s World Title match at Dynasty 2025, costing Strickland the championship and joining the Moxley-led faction shortly afterward. According to accounts from Self-Made Sessions featuring Ibou, these plans had to be shelved due to White’s untimely injury, just days before the event.
Potential Timetable for Jay White’s Full In-Ring Return
Tony Khan announced previously that Jay White’s absence would last until the end of 2025, largely dependent on his recovery process. Now that the year has drawn to a close, speculation is mounting about when White might re-enter the AEW scene or whether NJPW might play a larger role in his next chapter. The Jay White wrestling return at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 20 has reaffirmed his connections to multiple organizations, leaving fans attentive to future updates and potential cross-promotional events.
Jay White’s ongoing storyline, his ability to capture attention in both AEW and NJPW, and the uncertainty around his next move ensure that his return will remain a heated topic of discussion within the wrestling community, impacting both promotions and their storylines in the coming months.
JAY WHITE is back in NJPW for Hiroshi Tanahashi's retirement ceremony!#NJWK20 pic.twitter.com/SYFE1b0rCb
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) January 4, 2026
