Tony Khan announces blockbuster AEW Fyter Fest matches, setting the stage for high-octane showdowns and sparking intense reactions among key AEW talents. This week, backstage tensions, a former champion’s outcry, and the arrival of new stars have transformed Fyter Fest into one of the most talked-about events in the wrestling world.
Thunder Rosa Voices Frustrations Over Current Status
Thunder Rosa, the former AEW Women’s World Champion, made headlines after expressing her unhappiness with her current run in All Elite Wrestling. Having faced five straight losses across singles and tag-team matches, Rosa’s last major televised win was in February against Penelope Ford. The ongoing slump has led her to publicly question her direction under Tony Khan’s leadership and whether her efforts are being acknowledged within the Jacksonville-based company.
During a candid moment on her YouTube vlog, Rosa stated:
“Then what the f**k do I have to do? Show my t**s? I don’t know.”
This outburst underlined her frustration and reignited conversations about how AEW manages its established stars, particularly those who once held championship status.
Tag Team Main Event Confirmed for Fyter Fest
As excitement builds for AEW’s Fyter Fest, Tony Khan has officially confirmed a major tag team match for this week’s Dynamite. The anticipated face-off features former World Tag Team Champions FTR, comprised of Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler, going head-to-head with the CMLL standouts Atlantis Jr. and Templario.
This bout was set in motion after a heated incident on Collision, when FTR’s promo was interrupted by the masked luchador duo. The confrontation, which included spirited exchanges about Mexican wrestling tradition, quickly erupted into a physical clash, leaving Atlantis Jr. and Templario standing tall. Tony Khan’s quick decision to sanction the match, with confirmation airing during Collision, has heightened anticipation for what many see as a must-see attraction.
Kyle Fletcher Faces Criticism Over In-Ring Mishap
Kyle Fletcher, one of AEW’s up-and-coming wrestlers, found himself at the center of controversy following an incident during his TNT Championship match against Adam Cole on Dynamite. In a tense moment, Fletcher misjudged a Powerbomb, causing Cole’s head to make dangerous contact with the apron—an especially worrying scenario given Cole’s previous battles with concussions.
The risky spot triggered immediate backlash from All Elite Wrestling personnel, some of whom expressed outright anger over Fletcher’s miscalculation. According to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live:
There were a lot of people furious at Kyle Fletcher,
Highlighting the concern for Cole’s safety, especially due to his medical history. The tension didn’t end in the ring, as both men were later involved in a backstage altercation that was eventually diffused by security.
Debut of Thekla Set to Shake Up Women’s Division
Adding to the week’s developments, AEW confirmed that Thekla, referred to as the “Toxic Spider,” will make her official in-ring debut at this year’s Fyter Fest. This announcement followed her striking entrance on Collision, where she made an immediate impact by attacking former champion Jamie Hayter. Thekla’s experience, honed in Japan with Stardom against notable competitors like Mina Shirakawa and Athena, makes her a compelling addition to Tony Khan’s women’s division.
While her opponent for Fyter Fest remains unannounced, fans are eagerly anticipating the energy and skill Thekla is expected to bring. Her arrival introduces new storylines and opportunities within the promotion‘s competitive landscape.
Dustin Rhodes Celebrates Personal Milestone and Mentorship
AEW veteran Dustin Rhodes also made news this week by announcing that his daughter, Dakota, had gone into labor, marking another joyful moment as he prepares to become a grandfather again. Beyond the ring, Rhodes serves as a mentor at his wrestling school, a role made even more prominent after WWE Superstar Bayley visited to help train his students. Bayley praised Rhodes and his team for their guidance, reflecting the deep ties between current wrestlers and the next generation of talent.
Impact and Next Steps for AEW
The flurry of announcements, candid admissions, and escalating tensions underscore the shifting dynamics within All Elite Wrestling. Tony Khan’s blockbuster announcements for AEW Fyter Fest have framed this event as a turning point for both veterans like Thunder Rosa and emerging stars such as Thekla and Kyle Fletcher. With major matches, backstage drama, and new talent debuts, the wrestling world will be watching closely to see how these developments alter AEW’s storylines and locker room dynamics in the weeks ahead.
