Swerve Strickland is setting his sights on the AEW Unified Championship after a recent high-profile victory. Following his win with Will Ospreay at All In, Strickland’s challenge caught the attention of reigning AEW Unified Champion Kazuchika Okada, paving the way for a major showdown.
Their win over the Young Bucks has already shifted dynamics in AEW, leading to the Jackson brothers being stripped of their executive vice president roles. This development builds anticipation for the upcoming championship contest.
Events Leading to the Forbidden Door Match
On the July 30 episode of Dynamite, the Young Bucks defeated The Outrunners to advance in the World Tag Team Championship Eliminator tournament. After the match, the Bucks and Okada launched a continued attack, prompting Strickland to intervene and even the odds.
The following day on a live Collision episode, Strickland formalized his challenge to Okada, which the champion accepted. Their title match is now confirmed for Forbidden Door, scheduled for August 24 in London.
Alongside this main event, it has been announced that “Timeless” Toni Storm will defend the AEW Women’s World Championship against Athena, who earned her shot by winning the Women’s Casino Gauntlet Match at All In.
The confirmed matches for Forbidden Door include:
- “Timeless” Toni Storm (c) vs. Athena – AEW Women’s World Championship
- Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Swerve Strickland – AEW Unified Championship
- The Hurt Syndicate (c) vs. Winners of the Eliminator Tournament – AEW World Tag Team Championship
- Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. To Be Announced
Wider Wrestling News Highlights
In other news, Triple H reportedly declined a prominent request by Cody Rhodes involving John Cena, believing it would diminish Cena’s image. Meanwhile, Santino Marella has returned to WWE with aspirations to claim championship gold once again.
Ric Flair recalled his final conversations with Hulk Hogan, sharing advice he offered in their last interactions. Tiffany Stratton responded to criticism about her character and presentation on screen, indicating no plans to alter her approach.
A Netflix documentary titled WWE: Unreal has stirred claims that Triple H exposed The Rock’s involvement in John Cena’s heel turn. In separate developments, just days before his WWE SummerSlam match against CM Punk, Gunther shared a confident prediction for their bout via social media.
Further, Triple H is set to attend a White House event with U.S. President Donald Trump, joining other notable sports figures. Additionally, a WWE legend has signaled an intent to challenge Becky Lynch for the Intercontinental Championship ahead of SummerSlam.
Significance and What to Expect Next
The confirmation of the AEW Unified Championship bout between Swerve Strickland and Kazuchika Okada marks a significant moment for AEW as it bridges major talent and storylines from both AEW and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. This match at Forbidden Door in London is expected to elevate the profile of the AEW Championship and intensify cross-promotional interest.
With top-tier matches confirmed, including the AEW Women’s World Championship defense and the AEW World Tag Team Championship eliminator finals, the event promises to deliver high stakes and memorable moments for fans worldwide.
