AEW is preparing for the landmark debut episode of Dynamite in 2026, with Tony Khan AEW Dynamite 2026 already generating significant buzz due to bold promises from the company president. On January 7, the wrestling world will focus its attention on this high-stakes event as Tony Khan and co. orchestrate a lineup of major matches and dramatic moments to define the new year at AEW.
High-Profile Matches Announced for the 2026 Dynamite Premiere
The upcoming show on January 7 boasts a powerhouse card, featuring some of AEW’s brightest stars. Fans will witness Sammy Guevara face Bandido in a singles contest, while Marina Shafir takes on Toni Storm in what’s expected to be a hard-fought matchup. The intrigue continues with Swerve Strickland and Hangman Page joining forces to battle Hook and Powerhouse Hobbs in a Lights Out Match—a format renowned for chaos and unpredictability. Jon Moxley, representing the Death Riders, will square off against Shelton Benjamin in a pivotal Continental Championship Eliminator Match, further raising the stakes of the night. This lineup speaks to Tony Khan’s efforts to set a thrilling tone for the company in 2026.
Risks of Not Delivering Shocking Returns
Despite the strong card, there are crucial opportunities AEW could miss if Tony Khan does not deliver the element of surprise for which he is known. A lack of unexpected returns or debuts, such as appearances by major stars like Kenny Omega, Wardlow, or Adam Cole, could mean missing out on a viral moment that regenerates audience excitement. AEW fans have come to expect memorable surprises at milestone shows, and launching the year without one could set a less impactful tone for the company’s momentum moving forward.
The Importance of Spotlighting MJF and Bandido’s Rivalry
Another potential pitfall is overlooking a heated confrontation between Bandido and AEW World Champion MJF during the event. Although Bandido is scheduled to compete, failing to initiate or escalate a rivalry between him and MJF—either backstage or in the ring—would miss the chance to build anticipation for their expected clash on January 14. Incorporating a charged interaction, whether through a tense staredown or a sharp exchange of words, could significantly increase fan investment in their storyline and further energize the 2026 Dynamite narrative.
Critical Match Booking: Moxley’s Momentum Versus Benjamin’s Upset Potential
The Continental Championship Eliminator Match featuring Jon Moxley and Shelton Benjamin comes with major implications. Moxley, after a tumultuous 2025 that saw him lose the World title and struggle with confidence through a string of defeats in the Continental Classic, finally regained momentum by triumphing in the tournament at AEW Worlds End. Allowing Shelton Benjamin, a key member of the Hurt Syndicate, to pick up a clean victory over Moxley risks undermining the Death Riders leader’s credibility just when he is regaining prominence in AEW. Maintaining Moxley’s momentum will likely be essential for Tony Khan as he navigates the company’s storytelling direction for the new year.
Looking Ahead: What These Moves Mean for AEW’s Future
As AEW launches Dynamite in 2026, the decisions made by Tony Khan and the creative team will lay the groundwork for months to come. Introducing shock returns and escalating rivalries, particularly between fan-favorite stars and top champions like MJF, could generate lasting excitement. Conversely, strategic missteps with match outcomes and missed opportunities for big moments may affect AEW’s engagement and viewership as it embarks on another year of competition in the wrestling landscape. All eyes will be on Dynamite to see if Tony Khan can deliver on his high-stakes promises and set AEW on a victorious path.
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Wednesday, 1/7AEW World Champion @The_MJF Appears LIVE!
What will MJF say after being confronted by Hangman, Kenny Omega, Swerve, Samoa Joe & Brodido?
MJF defends the title vs @BandidoWrestler NEXT WEEK,1/14!
Dynamite, THIS WEDNESDAY! pic.twitter.com/DuFc2qOiZf
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 5, 2026
Jon Moxley is a Master of Promos pic.twitter.com/RWTUJpDiqV
— AEW Guardian (@BeowUniverse) January 4, 2026
