Nick Wayne will not compete at the upcoming AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door event after sustaining a broken foot. In his absence, Luchasaurus will return to team with Kip Sabian against Cope and Christian Cage, stepping in on Wayne’s behalf. This development has prompted attention to Wayne’s status within AEW and NJPW as fans await further updates on his recovery.
Clarification on Wayne’s Injury Status and Recovery Timeline
Although Wayne appeared via video on the August 20 edition of AEW Dynamite, which led to speculation that his injury might be scripted, it has been confirmed that he is legitimately sidelined. Dave Meltzer, speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, indicated that Wayne’s recovery could take approximately 10 weeks if surgery is not required. This timeline offers a tentative outlook for when Wayne might return to action.
Implications for Wayne’s Championship and AEW Roster
Nick Wayne currently holds the Ring of Honor World Television Championship, a title he claimed in April 2025 after defeating Komander during AEW Collision: Spring BreakThru. It remains uncertain whether Wayne will have to relinquish the championship during his recovery. His injury adds to AEW’s increasing list of sidelined wrestlers, as Will Ospreay and Swerve Strickland also cope with injuries, though both are expected to participate in Forbidden Door before potentially taking time off.
Luchasaurus Returns to Action at Forbidden Door
Luchasaurus’s return for Forbidden Door will mark his first AEW match since August 2024, when he was sidelined by double pneumonia. His partnership with Kip Sabian aims to fill the gap left by Wayne as they face Cope and Christian Cage, maintaining the event’s competitive lineup despite these last-minute changes.
