A longtime WWE veteran, Billy Gunn, was unexpectedly removed from AEW television several months ago, with the decision reportedly made by AEW President and CEO Tony Khan. This move appears driven by the company’s effort to spotlight younger wrestlers within their roster.
Background on Billy Gunn’s Role in AEW
Billy Gunn, a seasoned performer and former WWE Tag Team Champion, has been involved with All Elite Wrestling since 2019. Throughout his time at AEW, he has performed both in-ring and as an on-screen personality. Gunn also had the unique opportunity to work alongside his sons, Austin and Colten Gunn, as well as other emerging AEW talent.
In 2025, Gunn took on the role of manager for Anthony Bowens but was removed from regular television appearances a few months ago. Despite this, he recently wrestled in a dark match before an episode of Dynamite and made his televised comeback on the next Collision broadcast. According to Fightful Select, AEW’s executive team kept Gunn off TV to focus on promoting the younger generation of wrestlers.
Billy Gunn is reportedly not expected to participate in a potential reunion of The Acclaimed, the group that had previously included him alongside Max Caster and Anthony Bowens. Although inactive on television, Gunn remains under contract and was present backstage during a Dynamite event in Atlanta, close to his home.
Billy Gunn’s Separation from The Acclaimed
Previously, Billy Gunn was aligned with The Acclaimed faction but parted ways with the group in early 2025 after the duo of Max Caster and Anthony Bowens went in a different direction. Despite efforts to reconcile, Gunn has distanced himself from the group due to unresolved issues.
“I am not a part of the Acclaimed right now. They are having their own little difficulties right now to try to figure out who’s, whatever, the best wrestler live and the the pride, and they’re trying to work out their conflict. Until they work out their conflict, they don’t get me. So, you know, I’ve tried to talk to them enough that…they’re not listening anymore.” ?Billy Gunn, AEW veteran
With his return to television and the uncertainty surrounding his involvement with The Acclaimed reunion, the next chapter of Billy Gunn’s AEW career remains unclear. His ongoing presence backstage and contractual ties suggest future developments could still be possible.
This situation illustrates Tony Khan’s balancing act between honoring veteran talent and elevating new stars within AEW, a strategy that will shape the company’s direction moving forward.
Don Callis tried to chop Billy Gunn and failed miserably. 😭😭😭
pic.twitter.com/7c0wMDTT9P— Drainmaker (@TheDrainmaker) January 25, 2026
