In a sudden development, Tony Khan replaces AEW star Scorpio Sky ahead of his advertised match on this week’s Collision, citing that the wrestler has not been cleared medically to compete. The change comes just before the event, scheduled to take place with Scorpio Sky matched up against Shelton Benjamin in a highly anticipated bout.
Scorpio Sky, who returned to All Elite Wrestling programming in July 2025 following a near two-year break, had recently resumed competition on both Collision and ROH shows. His re-entry to television was marked by his involvement with the SkyFlight faction, rekindling fan interest in his in-ring performances. This week, anticipation built as his match with Shelton Benjamin approached, but Tony Khan confirmed via a live stream on X that Sky would be unable to take part due to last-minute medical advice.
“Shelton Benjamin of the Hurt Syndicate vs Scorpio Sky of Sky Flight, this was the match I was really excited about. Scorpio Sky is not gonna be cleared tonight by doctors, it’s an unexpected thing.” – Tony Khan, AEW President
In light of Scorpio Sky’s withdrawal, Tony Khan announced that Sky’s stablemate, Dante Martin, will take his place for the Saturday night match against Shelton Benjamin. Dante Martin stepping in preserves the storyline involving the SkyFlight group and ensures the Collision card remains intact despite the setback.
Scorpio Sky’s Return and Uncertain Tenure in AEW
Scorpio Sky’s absence had stretched from September 2023 until his return in July 2025, a gap that led to widespread speculation about his future with the company. During an appearance on the Creating Character podcast earlier this year, Scorpio Sky discussed his uncertainty during the hiatus and the process that led him back to Tony Khan’s promotion.
“To be completely honest with you, there was a time where I thought I was never going back to AEW. It just felt like things were heading in that direction,” Sky said. “That’s not what I wanted, and fortunately, it’s not what they wanted. We worked it out. I’m really happy to be back.” – Scorpio Sky, AEW Wrestler
Now, with Scorpio Sky sidelined again, the AEW roster and fans are left waiting for news about his eventual return. At 42 years old, uncertainty surrounds how soon he might recover and resume action in the ring. Dante Martin’s current opportunity against Shelton Benjamin further highlights the unpredictability and intensity that characterize AEW programming and Tony Khan’s management decisions.
This recent turn of events underscores both the volatile nature of professional wrestling and Tony Khan’s readiness to adapt AEW’s lineups as situations demand. Attention is now on the upcoming Collision event and Scorpio Sky’s health, as supporters and colleagues anticipate further updates about his status and the evolving storylines within SkyFlight and the larger AEW universe.
— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) January 3, 2026
