The AEW landscape has shifted dramatically after MJF captured the AEW World Championship at Worlds End, but Tony Khan AEW World Champion speculation is already swirling. While MJF fends off a wave of new contenders, signs are emerging that Darby Allin could be the next name poised to claim the company’s prestigious title.
Fresh Rivals Emerge for MJF After Title Victory
MJF’s celebrated victory at Worlds End saw him outlast Swerve Strickland, Hangman Adam Page, and Samoa Joe in a fierce four-way battle for the AEW World Championship. However, his reign has barely begun, and already several competitors have set their sights on dethroning him. Bandido, fresh from winning the Dynamite Diamond Ring, is scheduled to challenge MJF for the championship at Maximum Carnage in just two weeks. Meanwhile, on a recent episode of Dynamite, Kenny Omega interrupted MJF with a direct message—he, too, is after the title.
The same show delivered even more drama as both Hangman Adam Page and Swerve Strickland confronted MJF. Despite their combined attack, MJF managed to escape unscathed, keeping his reign alive for now. In a significant moment, Darby Allin, a fan-favorite and one of AEW’s standout homegrown talents, formally declared his intention to go after the AEW World Championship during the broadcast, upping the anticipation for what’s next in the title picture.
Darby Allin Positioned as the Next Possible Champion
Among all the determined challengers, Darby Allin’s pursuit of the AEW World Championship stands out. Known for his daring style and strong connection with fans, Allin has been a fixture in AEW since its inception. His commitment to the company and popularity among the audience make him a natural candidate in speculation about who could dethrone MJF. Industry observers and fans alike suggest that putting the title on Allin would reward homegrown talent and satisfy the AEW faithful, adding further intrigue and emotion to Tony Khan AEW World Champion storylines.
MJF Reveals the Triple B Title Belt on Dynamite
Continuing to make headlines, MJF kicked off the latest episode of Dynamite, boasting about his Worlds End triumph and taunting both his adversaries and the Nebraska crowd in attendance. During this segment, before Kenny Omega emerged, MJF made a dramatic gesture by discarding the standard AEW World Championship belt in favor of his signature Big Burberry Belt, or “Triple B”—a custom title that he had popularized during his initial reign as champion. This move drew attention not only for its defiance but also for the sense of individual showmanship MJF brings to his reign.
With so much talent vying for the championship, Tony Khan faces critical decisions about who will next carry the AEW World Champion mantle. As anticipation builds for Bandido’s title match and as Kenny Omega and other stars circle the scene, Darby Allin’s declaration for the world title campaign ensures the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping AEW’s championship narrative.
What Lies Ahead for the AEW World Championship
The heated competition for the AEW World Championship has made it one of the most closely watched prizes in the wrestling world. With Tony Khan, MJF, Darby Allin, Kenny Omega, Hangman Adam Page, Swerve Strickland, and Bandido all playing active roles, fans are bracing for a series of compelling clashes. As the company’s leadership and fans alike consider who best represents the next era, the possibility of Darby Allin seizing the title—solidifying his status as a homegrown hero—remains a tantalizing prospect for AEW’s future.
Blood was spilled and battles were survived. After his war with @GabeKidd0115 at #AEWWorldsEnd, @DarbyAllin delivers a haunting message to the Death Riders!
Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/NNvZZhwWgc
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 1, 2026
