The reason Jack Perry missing from AEW television continues to puzzle fans, as recent updates explain that the popular wrestler remains absent despite being eligible for a return. Perry last competed in January at Wrestle Dynasty, and no official injury or suspension currently keeps him off-screen.
Background on Jack Perry’s Status in AEW
Several All Elite Wrestling stars are currently nowhere to be found on televised shows. Jack Perry, last seen in January during his IWGP Global Title match loss to Yota Tsuji, is among these absent performers. Previously, Perry served a nine-month suspension after his involvement in the 2023 backstage altercation resulting in the firing of CM Punk by Tony Khan. This past incident had a significant impact on Perry’s AEW trajectory, but his absence since January has raised new questions among wrestling fans and commentators alike.
Injured AEW Stars and Perry’s Separate Situation
On an episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer addressed the growing number of missing AEW talents, clarifying that some are currently dealing with health issues. He explained:
“Wardlow has a knee injury, Keih Lee had surgery on I think both knees and is waiting to come back.”
—Dave Meltzer, wrestling journalist
While Wardlow and Keih Lee are sidelined by documented injuries, questions remain about other wrestlers, including Jack Perry, who are potentially fit to compete. Meltzer’s co-host, Bryan Alvarez, added further context about these other missing competitors, including Perry:
“I am under the impression that Killswitch, Britt Baker, and Jungle Boy; there is nothing preventing them from being on television right now except they are not being booked on television, and I don’t know why.”
—Bryan Alvarez, wrestling commentator
This statement refers to Jungle Boy, better known as Jack Perry, along with Britt Baker and Killswitch. According to Bryan Alvarez, these athletes are medically cleared, yet absent from weekly lineups due to creative decisions or booking choices rather than physical setbacks.
More Insight Into Jack Perry’s Non-Injury Absence
Expanding on Jack Perry’s specific case, Meltzer provided an update stating that Perry is able to return to action if called upon. He said:
“Jack Perry, I know is – he can be booked, he’s just not right now, as far as why I don’t know. I just remember I had a conversation about when Jack Perry’s coming back and it’s like he is, [Tony Khan’s] got the guys he’s using right now and when he has the need for Jack Perry to be back, he’ll be back. I don’t know when that’ll be.”
—Dave Meltzer, wrestling journalist
Despite speculation, Perry’s ongoing absence does not stem from injury, nor is it punitive according to the latest information. Tony Khan, the AEW president, appears to be making choices about which athletes to spotlight as current storylines unfold. Perry’s teammates in The Elite continue their work in his absence, adding further uncertainty about his standing within the team and future involvement upon his return.
What Jack Perry’s Absence Means for AEW and Fans
The lack of clear answers regarding the reason Jack Perry is missing from AEW television contributes to a conflicted and emotionally charged atmosphere among supporters and industry observers. The situation also highlights the unpredictable nature of wrestling booking—where even healthy, cleared stars like Perry, Britt Baker, and Killswitch may find themselves sidelined without public explanation.
As AEW’s roster remains in flux, the decision to keep particular talents off TV may relate to evolving creative priorities or shifts in company focus. Jack Perry’s next appearance hinges on when Tony Khan decides the timing is right, leaving both fans and analysts to speculate about what’s behind the prolonged absence and what Perry’s eventual return could mean for AEW storylines and The Elite’s dynamics moving forward.
