Tensions have erupted following Tony Khan AEW All In Texas booking at Dynamite’s milestone 300th episode, after a major stipulation was introduced for the upcoming premium live event in Texas, sparking controversy and frustration among fans and talent alike. The new match conditions and the future of several stars have left the wrestling community uneasy, fueling debate about the company’s current direction.
Unexpected Stipulation Raises Doubts for All In Texas
During AEW Dynamite 300, an intense confrontation between Swerve Strickland, Will Ospreay, and AEW Executive Vice Presidents Matt and Nick Jackson led to high stakes for the Texas PLE. Strickland pushed that if The Young Bucks lose, they would lose their EVP status in the company. Ospreay added another layer, suggesting that if he and Strickland were to lose, they would not be allowed to challenge for the AEW World Championship for an entire year. Strickland showed visible frustration and confusion at this twist, reflecting an increasingly tense backstage mood.
This came as a surprise since both Strickland and Ospreay have been chasing world championship gold—most recently, Swerve’s loss to Jon Moxley at AEW Dynasty has kept him hungry for the top spot. The rapidly escalating stipulation has already transformed the upcoming Texas match into a critical point for several major players, and Tony Khan’s decision-making is under intense scrutiny.
Fans Predict an Inevitable Outcome in the Main Event
The possibility that Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay might beat The Young Bucks seems almost certain to many fans, which risks sucking drama out of the match. The audience, knowing how slim the odds are for Ospreay and Strickland to lose such a high-profile contest, are already prepared to turn on the storyline if it unfolds as expected. There are broader implications, too—if Matt and Nick Jackson lose their televised EVP roles, it blurs reality and could have off-screen ramifications for their positions backstage.
The dynamic between these teams has further complications. A win for Ospreay and Strickland, who have both been eyeing championship opportunities, could simply move Ospreay up as the next world title challenger—his last attempt was at 2024 Forbidden Door, where he lost to Strickland. This bout’s built-in predictability and its impact on future title pictures are causing frustration within the AEW fanbase.
Bracing for a Major Character Shift if Strickland Loses
After Ospreay suggested the year-long title ban, Strickland’s reaction made it clear he was deeply unsettled by the idea. Considering he has worked relentlessly to capture the world championship again after losing it to Bryan Danielson at All In Wembley back in August, the stipulation strikes a nerve. Should Strickland and Ospreay lose to The Young Bucks, it’s likely that Strickland’s anger will boil over, pushing him to attack Ospreay in frustration. This turn could mark a significant new heel phase for Strickland, especially with deep tensions already brewing.
Such a move would have ripple effects throughout the AEW roster. Following this potential betrayal, Strickland may redirect his aggression toward Hangman Adam Page, who is preparing to challenge reigning AEW World Champion Jon Moxley. With long-standing animosities in play, Strickland could even sabotage Hangman’s championship dreams, setting up further feuds and complications down the road.
The Risk of Rushing a New Championship Contender
If Strickland and Ospreay are barred from challenging for the AEW World Championship for a year after a loss, AEW will be forced to insert a fresh competitor into the title scene without a natural progression. Names like Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF), Kenny Omega, Bobby Lashley, Kazuchika Okada, Konosuke Takeshita, Hangman Adam Page, Samoa Joe, Nick Wayne, and Daniel Garcia could all be rushed into the spotlight to fill the gap. This abrupt shift could disrupt ongoing storylines and undermine established narratives that the company has meticulously built.
With All In Texas only days away, AEW President Tony Khan faces mounting pressure to adjust the stipulation. There still remains a tight window for him to rethink the match’s structure, ensuring smoother storytelling and clearer roles for all personalities involved—crucial for keeping fans invested and the promotion’s momentum intact.
Uncertainty Looms Over AEW’s Future Storylines
The Texas live event and its outcome hold substantial weight for AEW’s direction, roster hierarchy, and future championship pursuits. As Tony Khan’s booking decisions continue to invite scrutiny, AEW fans and talent will be watching closely to see if he makes any changes before the bell rings. The intense speculation reflects growing anxieties among viewers and participants as the company navigates a pivotal chapter.
