The competition between WWE and AEW extends beyond their wrestling events, as both promotions continue to vie for top talent. One notable figure at the center of this rivalry is Toni Storm, the current AEW Women’s World Champion. The New Zealand–Australian wrestler has found renewed success and creative freedom since leaving WWE, where she struggled to establish her character.
Storm‘s evolution into her “Timeless” persona has resonated strongly with AEW’s audience, and she is currently in the midst of her record-setting fourth reign as AEW Women’s World Champion. Although her contract expiration date remains undisclosed, industry insiders believe WWE, led by Triple H, might be interested in reclaiming her if she ever becomes a free agent.
Potential WWE Restrictions and Tony Khan’s Advantage in Retaining Storm
Despite WWE’s possible interest, reports suggest the company might not allow Toni Storm to keep her AEW-established “Timeless” gimmick if she returns to their roster. Wrestling Observer Radio’s Dave Meltzer explained that WWE typically avoids recreating personas developed elsewhere.
“WWE may not want to recreate her AEW gimmick. That’s not usually how they operate,” Meltzer said.
In contrast, Bryan Alvarez noted that AEW President Tony Khan is likely prepared to outbid WWE financially, underscoring Storm’s importance within AEW’s roster.
“Tony Khan would likely outbid them anyway. She’s one of his top stars right now.” —Bryan Alvarez
Toni Storm’s Upcoming Title Defense and Continuing AEW Storylines
Building on her momentum, Toni Storm recently defended her title against Mercedes Moné, formerly known as Sasha Banks, at the All In: Texas event. She now faces a significant challenge at the AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door event, where she will defend the AEW Women’s World Championship against Athena.
Athena, aged 36, earned this championship opportunity by winning the Women’s Casino Gauntlet Match at All In. In the weeks leading up to Forbidden Door, during AEW Dynamite’s final episode before the pay-per-view, Athena went head-to-head with Storm in a tag team bout that also featured Mercedes Moné and Alex Windsor, securing a victory over the reigning champion.
The central question remains whether Athena can dethrone Toni Storm and become a double champion, adding further intrigue to AEW’s women’s division and the ongoing competitive dynamic between these two promotions.
