Deonna Purrazzo, a prominent figure in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), has been absent from AEW television since February 2025. Tony Khan has recently provided new information regarding her situation, affirming plans for her return. After debuting in early 2024 with a strong push that included a title challenge against Toni Storm for the Women’s World Championship at Revolution 2024, her presence on AEW programming has dwindled. Despite this, Khan remains optimistic about her future in the company and her potential for a significant comeback.
Tony Khan Discusses Deonna Purrazzo’s Prospects and Recent Activity
During a media call ahead of the Ring of Honor’s Death Before Dishonor pay-per-view, AEW CEO Tony Khan addressed questions about Deonna Purrazzo’s role. Khan expressed strong support for Purrazzo, citing her as an exceptional talent who initially found success within AEW. He also pointed out her desire to expand her wrestling opportunities beyond AEW by participating more on the independent circuit and in ROH events, where she made her last appearance in June. Khan emphasized his intent to help Purrazzo regain momentum through forthcoming opportunities.
Khan highlighted that Deonna is set to participate in the Pure Championship Tournament, signaling a strategic plan to reintroduce her prominently within AEW.
“I think Deonna is an excellent wrestler, and she’s gonna be in the Pure Championship Tournament. I really want to get Deonna going again. I say these things because I think she’s a really good talent and person. I think she brings a lot of positive things, and I really want to stress, if one thing doesn’t go perfectly, it’s okay to take some time, and we’ll reevaluate when the right thing comes up, and we’ll slot you back in,” he said. —Tony Khan, AEW CEO
“Deonna has been really positive of [sic] AEW, and I want to give Deonna a good opportunity. I’m still very interested in Deonna wrestling, and she has been open that she wants to get out there and wrestle more on the independents and take advantage of the opportunities in ROH when they come. Based on the positive sentiment she’s been putting out there, and her wanting to do the work, and the body of work she’s put up in her career, and what I know she’s capable of at her best, absolutely, I want to give Deonna opportunities.” —Tony Khan, AEW CEO
Deonna Purrazzo as a Role Model Within AEW’s Locker Room
Beyond her in-ring skills, Deonna Purrazzo has earned praise for her professionalism and positive attitude, even during periods when she was not in the spotlight. Tony Khan specifically noted her commendable conduct in the locker room, highlighting how she maintains a constructive outlook and remains eager to compete, regardless of her television status. This attitude has made her an example for others within AEW.
“Deonna is somebody that is a good example of how to conduct yourself in the locker room; even if you’re not necessarily featured on TV, being [sic] very positive in the sentiment of the company and also express an interest in going out and wrestling and taking advantage of the opportunities to go out there and get in the ring and make the most of them.” —Tony Khan, AEW CEO
Looking Ahead for Deonna Purrazzo and AEW
With Tony Khan’s clear commitment to reinvigorating Deonna Purrazzo’s role, her forthcoming participation in the Pure Championship Tournament holds particular significance. This opportunity not only allows her to showcase her wrestling talents but also signals AEW’s intention to feature her more prominently moving forward. Her willingness to compete on independent circuits and within ROH indicates a versatile approach to building her career, aligning with AEW’s flexible model for its talent.
Khan’s encouragement and strategic planning suggest that fans can expect to see The Virtuosa return to a more active status in AEW and ROH, highlighting her as both a competitive wrestler and a respected figure behind the scenes. This update by Tony Khan provides a hopeful outlook on Purrazzo’s trajectory and underlines her value to the Jacksonville-based promotion.
