Since its founding in Jacksonville in 2019, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has swiftly risen to become a formidable rival to WWE, the dominant force in sports entertainment. Under the leadership of Tony Khan, AEW has achieved rapid growth through shrewd strategic moves, including recruiting several notable WWE stars such as Bryan Danielson, Adam Copeland, Mercedes Mone, and Christian Cage to their roster.
Major Developments Shaping AEW’s 2025 Landscape
The year 2025 marks a pivotal point for AEW as the promotion secures lucrative television contracts, hosts numerous sellout events, and delivers grand spectacles like AEW All In: Texas. These successes elevate the company‘s profile, yet upcoming changes could significantly affect its future. Key shifts might include talent departures and arrivals that could realign AEW’s competitive position and fan engagement.
Talent Departures and Their Implications
Jon Moxley, once the dominant AEW World Champion, lost his title to Hangman Adam Page in a dramatic Texas Death match at AEW All In: Texas. Despite previously signing a five-year contract extension in 2022, rumors suggest Tony Khan might release Moxley, similar to earlier releases of other wrestlers this year. Such a move could pave the way for Moxley’s potential return to WWE, dealing a blow to AEW’s star power.
Rhea Ripley’s Potential Shift Toward AEW
Currently a standout performer in WWE’s women’s division, Rhea Ripley has experienced a series of losses at the start of 2025, including at the Evolution Premium Live Event where Naomi’s successful Money in the Bank cash-in denied Ripley a title win over IYO SKY. These setbacks might increase Ripley’s frustration, possibly motivating her to leave WWE for AEW.
Joining AEW would also mean reuniting with her husband, Buddy Matthews, who is already part of the company. This move could enable Ripley to spend more time alongside Matthews, both on and off screen, while potentially elevating AEW’s women’s division with a major new star.
Broader Effects of Talent Moves in Wrestling
Wrestlers like Bayley and Mercedes Mone illustrate the impact of shifting from WWE to AEW. Bayley, considered a pioneer in women’s wrestling, never received the same prominence in WWE as fellow Four Horsewomen Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair. Meanwhile, Mercedes Mone left WWE and reached new heights in AEW, suggesting that Ripley could similarly revive her career if she makes the switch.
AEW’s ability to attract top talent from WWE reflects its growth and ambition, but these moves also carry risks. Losing key stars like Moxley could challenge AEW’s momentum, while signing high-profile wrestlers such as Ripley could reinforce AEW’s competitive edge in the evolving wrestling landscape.
The Future of AEW and Wrestling Dynamics in 2025
As AEW continues to push boundaries with high-profile signings and ambitious events, the wrestling community awaits how these potential roster changes will alter the rivalry between AEW and WWE. Rhea Ripley’s move to join Buddy Matthews at AEW could signify a major shift, reshaping storylines and fan engagement in the coming year.
With Tony Khan at the helm, AEW appears ready to capitalize on key opportunities and navigate challenges, maintaining its trajectory as a top wrestling promotion. The developments around Ripley and other stars in 2025 are likely to have lasting effects on the industry’s landscape.
“These WWE segments are not for kids – Watch here 😏”
— Unnamed source
“The Role Model, possibly being tired of her treatment, could jump ship to All Elite Wrestling to join The CEO and begin her path as one of the biggest attractions in professional wrestling.”
— Source close to situation
