Wardlow, once seen as one of AEW’s brightest prospects, has faced inconsistent booking throughout his tenure with the company. Despite moments of promise that suggested a major push, his momentum was never sustained, leading many to speculate that Tony Khan may eventually move forward without advancing Wardlow’s position in AEW’s competitive landscape. This situation is made more complex by ongoing injury concerns and shifts within the roster over the past year.
Impact of Injuries and Hiatus on Wardlow’s Role
Wardlow’s career with AEW has been repeatedly interrupted by injuries, including a recent torn pectoral muscle reported shortly after his return at Forbidden Door, where he joined the Don Callis Family faction. The uncertainty surrounding his recovery has likely contributed to AEW management’s hesitation to invest heavily in him at this time. Prolonged absences and the need for injury rehabs have made sustaining his push difficult in a roster that continues to evolve.
Changing Roster Dynamics and Championship Preferences
AEW’s current champions and rising stars tend to be agile, fast-paced wrestlers who demonstrate strong versatility in the ring. Performers like Kyle Fletcher, Kevin Knight, Will Ospreay, Swerve Strickland, and Kazuchika Okada exemplify this style and have frequently received top billing under Tony Khan’s direction. In contrast, larger wrestlers, often referred to as “big men,” have found it harder to gain similar championship traction, with Samoa Joe standing out as a recent exception. This trend further complicates the potential for Wardlow, a physically imposing competitor, to be pushed as a main event figure.
Wardlow’s Past Within The Undisputed Kingdom
Wardlow was known as the enforcer for the Undisputed Kingdom, a faction that held a prominent place during AEW’s early days. While inside the group, he seemed poised for a significant singles push, ultimately receiving a world title shot against Samoa Joe. However, his failure to capture the AEW World Championship marked the beginning of his fade from the title scene. Additionally, the faction struggled to resonate with audiences, who often preferred their rivals, limiting Wardlow’s ability to establish himself as a top star even within the group.
Future Possibilities Amid Uncertain Booking
Despite his setbacks, Wardlow’s association with the Don Callis Family has opened a fresh storyline avenue, though his injury puts any immediate plans on hold. It remains unclear if, upon recovery, AEW will elevate him again or assign him to different roles that better suit the company’s broader needs. Tony Khan and AEW management’s decisions will likely depend on Wardlow’s health and how well he fits the current direction of AEW’s evolving roster.
