Tommaso Ciampa marked his arrival in All Elite Wrestling with an unexpected debut, immediately setting sights on the TNT Championship. Following his recent exit from WWE, Ciampa confronted then-TNT Champion Mark Briscoe, making it clear he intended to challenge for the title without hesitation.
Ciampa quickly backed up his words, securing the TNT Championship by defeating Briscoe in his very first AEW match on AEW Collision.
Ciampa’s Title Reign Ends Amidst Intense Competition
Ciampa’s promising title reign was short-lived, as he dropped the TNT Championship to Kyle Fletcher during the February 11 episode of AEW Dynamite. The match between Ciampa and Fletcher was highly praised and considered an early candidate for Match of the Year. Following this victory, Fletcher announced his first title defense would be against Mark Briscoe in a Ladder Match scheduled for the AEW Grand Slam: Australia event later this weekend.
Adopting a TakeOver Mentality Against Kyle Fletcher
Before the loss to Fletcher, Ciampa spoke with VICE about the mindset he brought to their encounter, comparing it to his experiences at NXT TakeOver events. He expressed admiration for Fletcher’s skill set and attitude inside the ring.
Kyle is one I’m extremely keen on,
Ciampa said.
I think he’s just an incredible worker, athlete, promo, and presentation. I’m excited to see what I do with a young guy who came from a whole different era than me. That feels like a TakeOver mentality I have going into that one.
Ciampa further explained the significance of Fletcher’s connection to the TNT Championship.
It’s hard for me to pick a TNT champion who made the title and the title made him more so than Kyle Fletcher. I feel like that’s a guy who really resonates with it. He’s a big boy, he’s young, he’s athletic. He wants the title. Just [standing] face-to-face with him in the ring on Collision on Saturday, I saw it in his eyes… there’s no hesitation. He’s not nervous. He’s ready for the spotlight.
Tommaso Ciampa’s AEW Journey and Its Larger Implications
Ciampa’s transition from WWE to AEW highlights his determination to compete at the highest level amid a fiercely competitive roster. His approach, inspired by the intensity and focus cultivated during NXT TakeOver, reflects his desire to establish a strong presence in AEW’s growing landscape.
The title loss to Kyle Fletcher opens new storylines, with Fletcher poised to defend the championship against Mark Briscoe in a high-stakes Ladder Match, underscoring AEW’s commitment to delivering memorable contests.
This emerging rivalry and Ciampa’s mindset set the stage for an intense run in AEW, with fans closely watching how his NXT-era focus translates into success within a fresh environment.
