The Miz hosting American Gladiators with AEW stars has sparked both excitement and controversy within the wrestling world. The popular competition show is slated to make a return in 2025, but not all parties seem pleased with WWE and AEW talent appearing on the same stage.
The Return of a Classic Show with a Wrestling Twist
American Gladiators, which enjoyed runs from 1989 to 1996 and again in 2008-2009, is preparing for another comeback next year. WWE Superstar The Miz will take on the role of host for this new season, bringing his high-energy persona to the program. What sets this reboot apart is the presence of AEW performers, including Wardlow and Kamille, who are set to join as Gladiators. The A-Lister will headline the hosting duties, placing him at the center of this unique crossover.
Crossover Causes Tension Between Promotions
While the collaboration promises dynamic entertainment for fans, it has surfaced that not everyone is thrilled about the arrangement. According to recent reporting by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, friction has arisen within one of the two wrestling promotions over the blend of WWE and AEW talent sharing the spotlight. Online discussions reflect a divided fanbase, with some pointing to WWE as the dissatisfied party based on the company’s longstanding reputation for guarding its brand and limiting cross-promotional involvement.
On the other hand, a portion of viewers speculate that AEW could be uneasy about their stars adding shine to a show where The Miz, the WWE veteran, is promoted as the main attraction. His established charisma and legacy give him a headline presence, potentially overshadowing AEW’s contribution and stirring subtle discontent behind the scenes.
The Miz’s Recent WWE Storyline Could Impact the Show
The Miz is also involved in a developing story with Carmelo Hayes, where the two have formed an unconventional partnership dubbed “Melo Don’t Miz.” Rather than functioning as a typical tag team, their bond is rooted in a mentor-mentee dynamic, with The Miz occasionally passing major opportunities—such as a Money in the Bank shot—to Hayes. However, momentum has not been on Hayes’s side, and WWE appears to be building an angle based on mounting distrust and frustration between them.
If Hayes suffers another defeat this week in his King of the Ring qualifier, tension could escalate, possibly culminating in a face-off between the two during a major event like SummerSlam. Yet, given Triple H’s preference for extended story arcs, this confrontation could be delayed for a future premium live event, leaving the outcome—and its timing—uncertain.
Significance of the Cross-Promotional Move and What Lies Ahead
The collaboration between WWE and AEW stars on American Gladiators marks a rare blending of rival promotions in a mainstream setting, and could impact future relationships between the companies. With The Miz at the center of attention and AEW names like Wardlow and Kamille in prominent roles, the show’s return is not merely nostalgic—it’s become a flashpoint for industry friction and competitive brand management. How both organizations handle this situation may set the tone for similar projects down the line, as fans look forward to seeing what unfolds both on-screen and behind the scenes in 2025.
