All Elite Wrestling is making final preparations at NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois for the AEW Worlds End 2025 pay-per-view, and significant backstage details have surfaced. One of the most discussed topics has been the longstanding plan surrounding MJF’s participation in the main event, which insiders say was cemented as early as mid-November, countering any speculation of a last-minute decision. This points to a deliberate creative direction as AEW sought to shape its marquee match for the year’s climax.
Kenny Omega Drops Teaser About AEW World Title Picture
This week on AEW programming, Kenny Omega made a pointed reference to needing to “take care of some things,” a moment sources describe as a purposeful hint regarding his soon-to-be renewed pursuit of the AEW World Title. This subtle line was not spontaneous; it was scripted to begin building anticipation for Omega’s return to the championship scene, setting the stage for future storylines that could shake up the main event landscape.
Travel and International Commitments for AEW Talent
Behind the scenes, several wrestlers featured at Worlds End are preparing for immediate post-show travel. Multiple talents are expected to fly out to Japan right after Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite to fulfill their scheduled appearances at Wrestle Kingdom. Meanwhile, other wrestlers also committed to Wrestle Kingdom will depart from the United States later in the week, highlighting the close creative and logistical ties between AEW’s roster and global wrestling events like New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual showcase in Japan.
Christian Cage’s Absence and Confirmation
A notable absentee from tonight’s proceedings is Christian Cage, who is not backstage at the NOW Arena for Worlds End. Instead, he is attending a hockey game in Bridgeport, Connecticut, a detail first revealed through backstage channels.
As first noted in the @FightfulSelect Worlds End scoops thread – Christian Cage is not on location tonight for the PPV. He is taking in some AHL Hockey in Bridgeport, CT. pic.twitter.com/Jnl48F3KJx
— WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) December 27, 2025
Tony Khan’s Deepening Role in AEW Creative
Tony Khan’s involvement in AEW’s creative direction has intensified in recent months, according to sources and his recent statements to Sports Illustrated’s Jon Alba. Internal accounts confirm that Khan has taken a more hands-on approach, participating directly in creative decisions more than ever before, even prioritizing AEW obligations over his presence at several Jacksonville Jaguars games this year—something considered rare in past seasons. Sources also note Khan takes particular pride in the industry honors and recognition AEW received in 2025, seeing them as validation for the company’s evolving direction.
Status and Creative Processes of Key AEW Stars
Chris Jericho’s name, according to those close to AEW creative planning, has not featured prominently in ongoing discussions about future storylines or immediate plans. Insiders attribute this to Jericho’s preference for handling creative matters in direct conversation with Tony Khan, outside broader planning meetings. Meanwhile, the Zero Hour pre-show placed Hyan and Maya World in the spotlight, underscoring AEW’s practice of identifying breakout performers through standout performances in so-called squash matches. Both are reportedly viewed favorably by those monitoring talent behind the scenes.
Intrigue Surrounding Kazuchika Okada and Upcoming Matches
There is growing curiosity among those connected with Kazuchika Okada about his immediate creative direction, especially given his upcoming bout with Konosuke Takeshita. Close associates expressed some surprise at Okada being matched so quickly ahead of Wrestle Kingdom, and many are eager to see how this storyline develops as both events approach.
Outlook for the AEW World Title Picture Moving Forward
Kenny Omega’s mention of “taking care of some things” serves not only as an in-ring moment, but also as a key indicator of possible shifts in the AEW World Title scene. As Worlds End unfolds and the roster prepares for international competition and emerging rivalries, AEW’s leadership and creative processes remain central to the company’s ongoing evolution. With major storylines poised for new twists and top stars potentially returning to title contention, fans and industry observers alike will be closely watching how these developments shape AEW’s trajectory in the coming months.
As first noted in the @FightfulSelect Worlds End scoops thread – Christian Cage is not on location tonight for the PPV. He is taking in some AHL Hockey in Bridgeport, CT. pic.twitter.com/Jnl48F3KJx
— WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) December 27, 2025
