Tony Khan changes AEW rules by introducing a surprise adjustment to a familiar match format during the December 31 AEW Dynamite, held at Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Omaha, Nebraska. This unexpected announcement aimed to add fresh intrigue and opportunities for competitors as the company closed out the year.
New Stipulation Unveiled During AEW Dynamite’s Year-End Show
The final AEW Dynamite broadcast of the year featured several high-stakes matches, with Tony Khan making headlines by updating a key rule connected to the AEW Continental Championship Eliminator. Fans in Nebraska witnessed Continental Champion Jon Moxley defending against Josh Alexander, also known as ‘The Walking Weapon,’ in one of the night’s spotlighted contests.
The Eliminator bout was set under existing Continental Rules, which prevent outside assistance to keep the contest fair. However, Khan announced a new twist: if Josh Alexander either defeated Moxley or lasted the 20-minute duration without losing, he would secure a future opportunity for the AEW Continental Championship.
“If @Walking_Weapon can either beat @JonMoxley or last the entire time limit, he’ll earn a future AEW Continental Championship Opportunity!Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/koH0ZKvLVu” — All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 1, 2026
Moxley Defends Title Despite Lingering Injuries
The contest not only brought excitement to the event but also highlighted ongoing storylines, such as Jon Moxley’s struggle with recurring leg injuries, a problem persisting throughout the tournament. In a hard-fought match, Moxley managed to subdue Alexander by applying a submission hold, prompting Alexander to submit and ending his hopes for an immediate title shot.
What the Rule Change Means for AEW and Its Competitors
This sudden update to the match structure demonstrates Tony Khan’s willingness to innovate in All Elite Wrestling, keeping both competitors and audiences on their toes. The adjustment enhances competitive stakes and signals more dynamic opportunities for talent like Josh Alexander, while ensuring matches remain unpredictable for fans. As AEW continues its journey into the new year, further changes and surprises in match rules may similarly energize the company’s televised events and future title pictures.
If @Walking_Weapon can either beat @JonMoxley or last the entire time limit, he'll earn a future AEW Continental Championship Opportunity!
Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/koH0ZKvLVu
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 1, 2026
