Jon Moxley has publicly addressed his plans in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) just as the promotion faces a string of dramatic developments, including a high-profile retirement and the reshuffling of major matches. The immediate focus now centers on Moxley’s scheduled Continental Title eliminator match, set against the backdrop of retirements, surprise returns, and injury-induced changes across both AEW and the Japanese wrestling scene.
Hiroshi Tanahashi Concludes His Historic In-Ring Career
Hiroshi Tanahashi, recognized as one of the defining figures in Japanese professional wrestling, retired from active competition after a remarkable 25-year career. His final match took place at Wrestle Kingdom 20, where he faced his long-standing rival Kazuchika Okada in a bout that served as a symbolic transition for a new generation. Okada’s victory was followed by an emotional farewell ceremony, attended by wrestling icons such as Kenny Omega, Will Ospreay, Jay White, and Katsuyori Shibata. Their presence underscored Tanahashi’s influence not only in Japan but also on AEW stars and the broader wrestling world.
Unexpected Setback Temporarily Halts AEW Collision Bout
On AEW Collision, a match between Shelton Benjamin and Dante Martin took a dramatic turn when Martin, stepping in as a last-minute replacement for the injured Scorpio Sky, suffered a hard spill against the guard rails after being pushed from the ropes by Benjamin. Ringside medical staff and officials, including Christopher Daniels, quickly reacted, evaluating whether Martin could continue. MVP, who was present, voiced concern about Martin’s condition. Despite the scare and advice to stop, Martin opted to continue after clearance, but the ordeal highlighted the ever-present risks in the ring. Following the incident, Benjamin capitalized on the situation to secure victory, positioning himself as a formidable contender ahead of his showdown with Jon Moxley.
Jay White Returns to the Spotlight During a Wrestling Milestone
Elsewhere, Jay White, a key AEW talent recently sidelined by injury, made a notable appearance at Tanahashi’s retirement ceremony at Wrestle Kingdom 20. This marked his first public involvement in wrestling since a legitimate hand injury in March 2025 halted a planned storyline featuring an alliance with The Death Riders and a major angle involving Swerve Strickland and the AEW World Championship. With AEW President Tony Khan signaling White’s return to active storylines, speculation is mounting about The Switchblade’s reappearance on AEW programming, following his international spotlight moment in Japan.
Moxley Addresses His Next Major Challenge and AEW Commitment
Jon Moxley, coming off his victory in the Continental Classic at Worlds End, has laid out his intentions in AEW as he prepares for a Continental Title eliminator match against Shelton Benjamin. Moxley’s continued status as an active, defending champion perpetuates AEW’s commitment to high-level competition. In a direct and revealing backstage message, he offered candid respect and anticipation for his rival.
“When I step into the ring with Shelton Benjamin on Wednesday, he will be very high on the list of straight up baddest dudes I’ve ever been in the ring with. He can and should and will throw me around like a ragdoll. There’s really nothing I do better than Shelton Benjamin, and I’ve all respect in the world for those guys. […] But Wednesday, Shelton Benjamin, I’ll think of the price tag, you’re going to have to do a whole lot more than than hurt me,” said Moxley.
As Shelton Benjamin enters the contest following a hard-fought win over Josh Alexander in a previous eliminator match, the stage is set for an intense encounter. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Jon Moxley, celebrated as the Purveyor of Violence, can withstand the challenge posed by Benjamin, known as the Gold Standard, especially after a week fraught with injuries and pivotal moments for AEW’s roster.
The Road Ahead for AEW Following Tumultuous Shakeups
With Hiroshi Tanahashi’s emotional retirement, Jay White’s re-emergence, and injury-driven drama in AEW’s active storylines, the coming weeks are likely to bring further changes and high-stakes contests. The spotlight now turns to Jon Moxley AEW future, as he faces adversity both in the ring and in navigating the ripple effects of this period’s events. AEW fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in a rapidly evolving wrestling landscape, with Moxley, Benjamin, White, and others poised at the center of the action.
Just as @The305MVP tried to get @lucha_angel1 to give up, Dante fired back!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/Tu8KCTQUmC
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 4, 2026
