Tony Khan‘s booking mistakes at AEW Fyter Fest have fueled backlash from fans after several high-profile missteps took place during the four-hour event. With All In: Texas drawing near, questionable decisions concerning key stars and match finishes have cast a shadow over the company‘s latest showcase.
Josh Alexander’s Losing Streak Raises Concerns
Josh Alexander, who made a name for himself as a standout in TNA Wrestling prior to joining AEW, has struggled to make a significant impact since arriving in the company. When Alexander debuted on the April 16 episode of Dynamite to compete against Hangman Page in the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament Quarter Final, anticipation was high for his AEW future. Yet, he fell short in that bout, which set a precedent for his subsequent matches.
After swiftly aligning with The Don Callis Family, his fortunes did not improve. Alexander suffered further losses to Hangman Page and Will Ospreay during Beach Break, and Brody King not long after. These setbacks continued at Fyter Fest, where Alexander faced Daniel Garcia and Paragon but was booked to lose again. For a wrestler tipped as a potential World Champion, this continuous string of losses has started to erode his momentum.
Some within the community feel that Fyter Fest offered the right moment to reverse Alexander’s fortunes, yet the booking decision favored his opponents. This ongoing pattern makes it tougher for Alexander to be seen as a credible threat going forward, especially with All In: Texas on the horizon and the need for strong challengers in the AEW roster.
Missed Return for Cope Leaves Fans Disappointed
Cope, more widely recognized in wrestling circles as the Rated R Superstar, has been absent from AEW television since being attacked by FTR at AEW Dynasty 2025. Though speculation swirled about his possible comeback and a marquee match set for All In: Texas, his opponent has yet to be named and Cope remained unseen at Fyter Fest.
Given the proximity to All In, many saw Fyter Fest as the ideal stage for Cope’s return. Such a move could have helped reignite excitement for the event and potentially increased viewership. With the opportunity missed, AEW lost not only a moment to reintroduce a major star but also the chance to begin the storyline build-up for one of the company‘s biggest shows of the year.
Repeated Interference Mars Jon Moxley’s Title Defenses
Jon Moxley has held the AEW World Title since last year, establishing himself as a dominant champion. Yet, a recurring criticism has emerged from fans and critics regarding the nature of his title defenses. Most matches have featured outside interference, particularly from his stablemates in the Death Riders, diluting the legitimacy of his championship reign.
At Fyter Fest, this issue surfaced again when Moxley took on Mark Briscoe. Observers saw the match as a prime opportunity for Moxley to secure a clean victory without the aid of his allies. However, Wheeler Yuta and Marina Shafir interfered during the contest, continuing the pattern that has dogged many of his recent defenses. This decision has left supporters questioning whether Moxley can defeat top names like Hangman Page on his own, especially as he prepares to defend the title at All In: Texas.
The continued reliance on these finishes could hinder Moxley’s standing as a credible champion if the pattern persists heading into key future matchups.
Implications for AEW and the Road to All In: Texas
Tony Khan’s approach at Fyter Fest has drawn negative reactions across the AEW fanbase, with some citing specific missed opportunities involving Josh Alexander, Cope, and the ongoing saga of Jon Moxley’s title matches. With All In: Texas serving as a significant milestone, the questionable booking has left both wrestlers and viewers uncertain about the direction of upcoming storylines and potential title shifts.
The aftermath of Fyter Fest places added pressure on Khan to address these concerns and to recalibrate AEW’s creative trajectory in advance of its marquee event. How he responds will be pivotal, as the company seeks to sustain momentum and rebuild anticipation among its dedicated following.
