In 2025, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) experienced a breakthrough year by signing prominent wrestlers and delivering strong storytelling under the leadership of Tony Khan. Among the notable arrivals was former NXT Champion Andrade El Idolo, whose return to AEW has been widely praised. The 36-year-old Mexican star quickly became an essential part of the promotion, joining the Don Callis Family and securing a victory over Swerve Strickland on last week’s episode of AEW Dynamite.
Andrade is set to face Kenny Omega this week, with the winner earning a chance to challenge MJF for the AEW World Championship at Revolution 2026. This high-stakes match underscores the company’s confidence in Andrade as a top contender and highlights his role in the promotion’s current plans.
Tony Khan Endorses Andrade as a Stronger Competitor Than Ever
During a recent appearance on the Rich Eisen Show, Tony Khan lauded Andrade’s performance since coming back to AEW, describing him as being at the peak of his abilities. Khan’s praise reflected a strong belief that Andrade is performing better now than at any previous point in his career, emphasizing the wrestler’s growth and value to AEW’s roster.
“We have Andrade El Idolo, who’s returned very recently to AEW. And he is truly, I think, at his very best right now I’ve ever seen him,” said Khan.
Expert Reactions and the Road Ahead for Andrade
Veteran wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer expressed surprise at Andrade’s recent victory over Swerve Strickland on Dynamite, noting that the outcome was unexpected given Strickland’s status as a former AEW World Champion. Meltzer appreciated the match finish and observed a trend in Tony Khan’s booking style to include more surprises and “cross ups” involving top wrestlers vying for the world title.
“I really liked the finish of that show. The idea is all the top guys want the World Title. I wasn’t expecting Andrade to win but I thought there was certainly a chance of it just because it’s a cross up, [Tony Khan’s] liking to do cross ups more now,” Meltzer said.
With Andrade positioned for a key match at Revolution 2026, fans and analysts alike are optimistic about his chances to capture the world championship. His current run in AEW promises to surpass his initial tenure, as the company appears committed to elevating his status among its elite wrestlers.
The Significance of Andrade’s Return for AEW’s Future
Andrade El Idolo’s resurgence is a critical part of AEW’s strategy for maintaining momentum in 2026. By investing in top-tier talent like Andrade and setting up high-profile matches against stars such as Kenny Omega and MJF, Tony Khan is reinforcing AEW’s reputation as a destination for premier wrestling talent. This approach is likely to increase fan engagement and generate fresh storylines as AEW continues to compete on the global wrestling stage.
“We have Andrade El Idolo, who’s returned very recently to AEW. And he is truly, I think, at his very best right now I’ve ever seen him.”
– Tony Khan
(@RichEisenShow) pic.twitter.com/mV2b3QgFMa— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 3, 2026
