Darby Allin ends MJF’s World title reign on AEW Dynamite, Sting makes surprise appearance

For the first time ever, Darby Allin can call himself AEW World Champion.

Allin defeated MJF in front of his home crowd in Everett, Washington, to win the championship in quick fashion on Wednesday’s Spring BreakThru episode of AEW Dynamite, hitting the now-former champion with four coffin drops and a side headlock takeover for the pin and win, a call back to their past AEW match.

The match surprisingly took only a few minutes, started by an MJF low blow with Allin later hitting one of his own, followed by a Scorpion Death Drop and the sequence above.

Sting, Allin’s former AEW Tag Team Championship partner, made a surprise appearance as Allin was preparing to walk to the ring, saying it wasn’t showtime but Allin’s time. He then came out to take part in the post-match celebration along with the locker room.

Allin earned the shot with his Dynasty victory over Andrade El Idolo this past Sunday.

The win ends MJF’s second title run that began at last December’s Worlds End and saw seven successful title defenses.

At the onset of Dynamite, they played off that MJF had no idea the match was happening Wednesday even though it was announced Sunday night after Dynasty, saying AEW officials had been trying to get in touch with him all week and that the match was starting the show.

Allin came out to start the show, soon followed by an irate MJF who ran down the crowd, said he wasn’t doing the match, and would sue everyone involved. An emotional Allin tried to goad him into it, but MJF said his back was hurt from Sunday and wasn’t doing it.

Bryan Danielson got up from commentary and said he got a message from Tony Khan in the back who said the match would be pushed until the main event and if MJF didn’t defend, he would stripped of the title.

AEW Dynamite Spring BreakThru live results: MJF vs. Darby Allin World title match

AEW Dynamite Spring BreakThru is live tonight at Angels of the Wind Arena in Everett, Washington.

Coming off the AEW Dynasty pay-per-view in Vancouver on Sunday, the promotion has scheduled three championship matches for tonight’s show.

Kevin Knight will defend his newly won TNT title against Claudio Castagnoli. Willow Nightingale will put the TBS title on the line against the newly returned Kamille. And MJF will defend the AEW World Championship for the second time in just a few days against Darby Allin.

Also, Chris Jericho will be interviewed by Renee Paquette. Jericho is coming off having dropped his return match at Dynasty to Ricochet.

The full lineup for the show:

  • Kevin Knight vs. Claudio Castagnoli for the TNT Championship
  • Kamille vs. Willow Nightingale for the TBS Championship
  • MJF vs. Darby Allin for the AEW World Championship
  • Renee Paquette interviews Chris Jericho

Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern.

**********************************

AEW Dynamite comes on the air with Renee Paquette outside the arena as a car pulls up and AEW Champion MJF steps out. MJF kept cutting Paquette off so he can run down the list of who he’s beaten in this current reign and how he kicked out of the ineffective One-Winged Angel. Paquette was about to tell him some info when Don Callis walks in to wish him the best of luck tonight, apologizing for the whole Andrade thing. MJF didn’t know Andrade lost at the PPV, saying he was too busy preparing for the main event of Dynasty. MJF said Callis owes him a favor and he still loves him, but tell Andrade he’s not championship material. Paquette screams at MJF that Darby Allin is challenging him tonight, right now actually. MJF yelled “what the f*ck?” and we go right to the ring for Allin’s entrance.

Excalibur is joined by Bryan Danielson & Tony Schiavone and they talk about Allin’s hometown crowd, as they’re chanting Allin’s name loudly. MJF stormed to the ring in his suit to tell the little emo freak he’s as stupid as he looks if he thinks MJF is wrestling in an impromptu title match. Perhaps the fans are too braindead to understand how much money MJF has, if he doesn’t want something to happen, it won’t happen. He’ll sue everyone, including the skank ref, Aubrey, the little pervert, Justin Roberts, even Tony Khan and anyone who chooses to live in the dumpster fire that is Washington. MJF’s back hurts from wrestling Kenny Omega almost an hour ago at Dynasty and wonders how the company would look like if they forced MJF to wrestle tonight. MJF said he’s doing Allin a favor, saying he’s good, not great, not championship material. With love and respect, Allin isn’t ready to be World…

Allin ripped the mic away and said all it takes is one night to drop the wrestling world on its head. If he’s not ready now, he’ll never be, as he’s killed himself for this company. He’s taped posters around the city for this show, he hung the AEW flag atop of Mount Rushmore for this company and in tears now said his career started 10 miles from here at the Buddy Wayne Academy. He took a deep breathe his first day of school saying he’ll either succeed or fail as Darby Allin, not changing a thing. Tonight, he’ll climb atop the top of this sport, so ring the bell.

MJF said they’re not ringing the bell, but Danielson stood up and said he just got a message from Tony Khan, saying he actually agrees with MJF, that it’s unfair to wrestle when he’s unprepared. That’s why Khan will give him plenty of time to prepare, as this will happen in the main event. Crowd does the Yes chants, as Danielson says if MJF refuses, he’ll be stripped of the title. Allin spun MJF around and screamed he’s beating MJF’s ass with a headlock takeover. Allin leapt out of the ring, slammed himself into the railings before going to the back.

-Tony Schiavone caught up with Kenny Omega after the main event of Dynasty, as Omega said he’s got nothing and apologizes. The camera goes into the trainers room where Will Ospreay is still being worked on, as Omega asks if he’s doing ok? Ospreay said no, but welcome to the club. Omega said this isn’t how he pictured it for either of them, as he feels like he let everyone down. Ospreay cut him off saying he was there when Omega lost to Okada in the Tokyo Dome in 2017 and saw him fight back and win the big one. Omega said he doesn’t have time left, but Ospreay does, it’s his time, he knows Ospreay can take it back. Ospreay said they’ve still got this. He’s been crying the last 40 minutes, but his dream is still being the AEW World Champion and hopes Omega hasn’t given up on it, either, he knows Omega can do it. Both of them agree to have one another’s backs. Ospreay leaves and Omega says to himself “I’m you’re hero, huh? Maybe I can’t give up, maybe there’s still a chance.”

Tommaso Ciampa vs. Dezmond Xavier

(While Xavier had his hope spots, this was quite a dominant showing for Ciampa and a good way to get him over as a potential threat for whoever the AEW World Champion is when the night is over.)

Ciampa rushed Xavier at the bell, attacking in the ring and briefly outside before heading back in, where Xavier used his speed to battle back momentarily before being decked with a running Ciampa knee off the apron. Xavier vaulted over the ring steps, as back inside, both trade strikes until Xavier popped off a snap dropkick, forcing Ciampa to take a powder. Crowd tried to start bald chants, Ciampa wasn’t having it and said he’s not Ricochet. Ciampa gained control back inside with a kitchen sink and kept Xavier grounded.

Xavier escaped a headlock, mounting a comeback with a springboard Tornado DDT before quickly going up top, rolling through a 450, eating a rolling elbow from Ciampa. Xavier reversed Project Ciampa into a hurricanrana pin for two, tripped up Ciampa to the outside where he was met with a low Tope. Back inside, sense of urgency, Frog Splash hits for a near fall. Thrust kick catches Ciampa, as Xavier tried another springing DDT, but Ciampa caught him with a pump knee in mid-air. Project Ciampa destroys Xavier, as Ciampa lowers the kneepad and took Xavier’s head off for the win.

Post-match, Ciampa took the mic saying this was an example, he’s sick of waiting, he wants it all of the gold. If he’s not making himself clear, Darby Allin, Maxwell Jacob Friedman, whoever wins, the Psycho Killer is coming for the AEW World Title. Ciampa punt kicks Xavier in the ribs for good measure before ripping up fans signs ringside.

Match Result: Tommaso Ciampa defeated Dezmond Xavier

-Video package for Darby Allin is shown and the hell he’s had to go through over his time in AEW to get to this moment tonight. We go back to the first meeting between MJF & Allin, with MJF winning via side headlock (and Dynamite Diamond Ring). We see Allin defeating Andrade and MJF defeating Omega at Dynasty. Also a post-match promo MJF cut with Renee Paquette saying he’s going to celebrate his win, going dark on socials (thus explains why MJF had no idea about tonight’s title match.)

FTR Talk Their Dynasty Victory

Dax Harwood said he’s heard the chatter online and it seems that FTR winning again has made everyone angry and he gets it. The fans love an underdog story because they feel like they can relate, but they aren’t underdogs, they’re losers. Speaking of losers, they gave Adam Copeland & Christian Cage a brush with relevancy and they couldn’t get the job done. As long as FTR are AEW Tag Team Champions, they’ll never get a shot at the titles again. Stokely said he’s been told the sickos know everything about everything, so clearly, they know the story of David vs. Goliath. FTR are Goliath, while there’s a lot of Milli Vanilli’s in the back like Brodido, Bang Bang Gang, Cope & Christian and every time David steps up to Goliath, they get bitched out. Stokely knows that Tony Khan will sign every chud to put them into the tag division, but they’ll all fall to the giants known as FTR.

Cash Wheeler said that was beautifully said and would like to pay homage to ridding us all from Copeland & Cage and calls for a moment of silence. For those of you with flash photography, they’re giving the fans a 10 second pose. Stokely lays out and FTR poses with the titles, flipping the fans off, saying Seattle has been great.

**********

Kevin Knight vs. Claudio Castagnoli for the TNT Title

(Just a damn good power vs. speed showdown, as this was an excellent first challenger for Knight to start his reign. It definitely sounds like in the post-match promo that we’re setting up possible competitors potentially for the Owen Hart Tournament, if that’s starting soon. Ciampa & Knight calling their shots would certainly indicate it will be.)

Renee Paquette is ringside and said Washington is the place Kevin Knight started his career (also at the Buddy Wayne Academy), so what better way to kick off his TNT Title reign, as he’s spent plenty of time studying for this match. Castagnoli made his entrance right behind her and was standing atop the guard rail looking down at her as she kept talking about the match looking up at him in what was a cool visual.

Castagnoli charged at the bell, but Knight was ready with multiple pin attempts and high dropkick, sending Castagnoli reeling outside with a clothesline. Quickly back in, Castagnoli flattened Knight before take off with a lariat and boots aplenty. Keeping Knight grounded, Castagnoli worked a neck crank, but Knight managed a hip toss outside and launched off the apron for a flying clothesline. However, back inside, Castagnoli gained control with his power advantage, continuing to work over Knight, as the crowd started “Let’s Go Jet” chants. Knight used his speed to thwart the power, got a few more pin attempts, before leaping over Castagnoli into a lariat and double down.

Knight ate a few uppercuts before finally able to bodyslam Castagnoli, something he was unsuccessful at the previous few attempts. Leaping standing splash got a near fall, as Castagnoli was dropkicked off the top to the outside, as Knight cleared the top rope for a huge dive. Back inside, Knight tried his standing jump hurricanrana from the corner, but Castagnoli caught him, powered him back up the ropes, wanting an Avalanche Neutralizer, only Knight fought off. It wasn’t timed perfect, but Castagnoli threw Knight off the top, leapt with him for a huge uppercut for two. Knight tried another springboard, but was plucked out of the air for a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker for two. Giant Swing is dished out, as Castagnoli wanted a Sharpshooter, Knight fought it, dodged a catapult in the corner for a leaping lariat. Quickly up top, Knight hit the UFO Splash for the win.

Post-match, Knight put over Castagnoli as one of the hardest hitting guys he’s ever been in the ring with. The Jet is looking good as the new TNT Champion and brings up losing the Trios Titles the night before Dynasty and how Speedball Bailey is still beating himself up over the loss, but don’t let it get you down, you see how fast it can call change. Knight said he’ll be keeping a close eye on the main event, as Jet 2 Belts sounds Jet 2 Fly.

Match Result: Kevin Knight defeated Claudio Castagnoli to retain the TNT Title

**********

-Footage of Ricochet defeating Jericho at Dynasty was shown, ending with a Spirit Gun that could’ve ended it, but a Lionsault by Ricochet for good measure sealed the deal.

Renee Paquette interviews Jericho

Jericho was met with a loud ovation from Washington, as Paquette asks how it feels to be back. Jericho said it was one of his favorite performances at Dynasty, even though he lost, which he says was because he was outnumbered 3 on 1, but gives credit where it’s due. The Demand’s music hits immediately and Ricochet tells the fans to sit down and shut up. Ricochet respects Jericho, especially after his valiant performance at Dynasty, but he didn’t listen, so the opportunity presented itself for Ricochet to take Jericho out with his own move, which is now The Ricosault. Despite that, Jericho didn’t embarrass himself, but it wasn’t enough to avoid the Rise of Ricochet, so do yourself a favor, quit while you’re ahead. However, Jericho runs down all the reincarnations of Jericho, but says to make this new one the one who stays home after getting his ass kicked by The Demand and it could be the best run of his career.

Jericho takes the mic and calls The Ricosault brutal and starts working Bald, Dumb & Ugly into his promo like he’s Mr. Subliminal. Ricochet knows what he’s doing and he’s not going to bite. Jericho calls him scared (and bald), so Ricochet tells Kaun & Liona to stay at the ramp, he’ll take care of this. Ricochet hits the ring and gets his ass kicked quickly, calling for Kaun & Liona, who rush the ring and the 3-on-1 attack is on. They plant Jericho with Open The Gates before The Ricosault is hit yet again as The Demand stand tall.

-After Dynasty on Sunday, Renee Paquette asked Don Callis & Kazuchika Okada what happened out there when Konosuke Takeshita walked by, saying it was an accident, mockingly saying I’m So Sorry! Okada had to be held back by Callis, as Takeshita walked away smiling.

Will Ospreay vs. Hechicero

(I was initially worried that Ospreay was going to get way more offense than he should’ve considering the hell his neck went through at the PPV. Hechicero turned it on and I very much enjoyed how they worked a commercial break with the doctor tending initially to Ospreay, but Hechicero ultimately kept up his onslaught. Ospreay found a way, which I think is safe to say will be the story going forward, as it should. Post-match, another Callis monster shows up and is the next obstacle for Ospreay on his way to the title.)

Ospreay was heavily wincing taking off his entrance robe, as Bryan Danielson talks how this could be an incredibly bad idea to wrestle this soon after what happened at Dynasty against Jon Moxley. Don Callis walks out and gives an entrance to Hechicero as only he can (I think I caught a Super Nintendo in there). Despite Ospreay being heavily taped up, it was an even back and forth ground work early. Ospreay managed to fire off a snap hurricanrana that sent Hechicero outside, as Ospreay met him with a slingshot cross body. 10 corner punches back inside by Ospreay, who sinks in a Figure Four to keep Hechicero grounded. Marina Shafir is shown watching in the front row, as a series of standing switches led to Hechicero hitting a spinning hammerlock backbreaker and corner step-up knee to the back for two. Surfboard Stretch and pulling the hair to crank the neck back even more, as Hechicero stayed in control until Ospreay fired off a desperation handspring corkscrew kick for the reset.

Ospreay hit Pip, Pip, Cheerio and a standing Sky Twister Press, both of which netted near falls. Both rise and the straps have come down for Hechicero, who dodges a trifecta of strikes, until Ospreay floated over a hip toss into an enzugiri. Ospreay wanted Hidden Blade, but Hechicero countered into his Guillotine Head Scissors Driver for two, as Ospreay got his foot on the rope. Callis left commentary pissed off, arguing with referee Rick Knox, as Hechicero was relentless on his attack as Doc Sampson came in to check on Ospreay. Hechicero grabbed Ospreay, took him outside and slammed him onto the railing, taking him back in the ring, locking in a head scissors, continuing to target the neck. Back to the floor, Hechicero cleared the top with a huge dive before going back inside up top for a diving bulldog for two.

Out of nowhere, Ospreay managed a desperation Stundog Millionaire, Cheeky Nandos, tried a reverse slam, but Hechicero into a roll-up for two. Both continue trading pin attempts until Ospreay hit a thrust kick, Oscutter blocked, as Hechicero rolled Ospreay into a cross arm-breaker into a triangle choke. Ospreay powered up into a Styles Clash and Hidden Blade for the win.

Post-match, Ospreay stared down Callis & Lance Archer when he was attacked from behind by Mark Davis, who squashed Ospreay and stood tall over him. So that’ll be his next mountain to climb.

Match Result: Will Ospreay defeated Hechicero

(Editor’s Note: Josh Nason took over at this point this due to tornado warnings in Ryan’s town. Be safe, Ryan!)

Thekla/Alex Windsor segment

The AEW Women’s World Champion interrupted Renee Paquette and came out to crow about defending the title against Jamie Hayter at Dynasty. That brought out Alex Windsor and they had a verbal exchange that led to a match being made for Collision. One funny moment was Windsor saying Thekla was stupid enough to get fired from Japan which Thekla denied before quickly admitting she did which got a laugh out of the fans.

TBS Champion Willow Nightingale defends against Kamille

Made this past weekend after Kamille’s surprise return, this was her first Dynamite match since October 2024 and second AEW match this week after well over a year away for reasons that are unknown until a tell-all podcast drops in 2029.

This had an ad break early that killed the flow a bit at which point I realize I can watch without ads. Nightingale continued her run of defeating returning wrestlers with a backslide counter for the pin and successful title defense. Kamille looked fine here, but let’s see where things are in a few months and if they keep the new American Gladiator in the mix.

Kris Statlander and Hikaru Shida were then shown backstage as Shida was mocking Nightingale with Statlander looking slightly embarrassed and also ambivalent. Shida said they had so much fun last week tagging up, they are doing it again on Collision this week. It’s crazy these two are former AEW Women’s World Champions and it seems like Tony Khan has no idea what to do with them at this point. That seems to be a trend (Riho, Nyla Rose, Britt…what’s her name?).

Match Result: Willow Nightingale defeats Kamille to retain the TBS title

Darby Allin was prepping to walk to the ring and as Renee Paquette was asking him a question, Sting walked up, fully painted up. Allin asked him for some advice and then said, “It’s showtime.” Sting quickly replied that, “It’s not showtime. It’s YOUR TIME!” It does feel like Allin is going to win this thing tonight, huh…or maybe not?

AEW World Champion MJF defends against Darby Allin

This is going ad-free and also starting at just after 10 pm Eastern. Unless I missed something, I think we’re going until 10:30.

Well, I guess not. This was super quick. In a sequence, MJF used his Dynamite Diamond ring as Aubrey Edwards was distracted. Allin then hit his own blow as she was distracted again, hit a Scorpion Death Drop and then four coffin drops, and a side headlock takeover for the pin and win.

The locker room spilled out to celebrate including Sting and they did the whole celebration.

To me, this whole thing felt way too choreographed given the location and the Sting pre-match pep talk. I don’t understand wanting to change the title right now, but alas, it happened. I assume this leads to a rematch at Double or Nothing and MJF regaining the title there. Right?

Match Result: Darby Allin defeats MJF to win the AEW World title

AEW Collision Spring Break Thru 4/16/26

  • Thekla vs. Alex Windsor for the AEW Women’s Title
  • The Young Bucks vs. The Rascalz
  • We’ll Hear from Adam Copeland
  • Jon Moxley vs. Nick Wayne in a Continental Title Eliminator Match
  • Kris Statlander & Hikaru Shida in Action

AEW needed a fully committed MJF & are getting it once again | Opinion

I’m glad the fully committed MJF finally returned to AEW in a time when the company desperately needed that to happen.

Here’s a refresher on the 18 months between January 2024 and June 2025 that was a stretch I think he might even privately admit was a bit “mid”.

After losing at December 2023’s Worlds End and ending the longest World title reign in company history, he was out nearly six months recovering from injuries and made a surprise return at May 2024’s Double or Nothing to confront Adam Cole who had turned on him before he left.

That return was, well, yeah. MJF simply kicked him low, hit a brain buster, booted him out of the ring, did a “I’m staying” promo to finally end the whole “bidding war of 2024” bit, showed off a new AEW tattoo, and away we went – a strange way to kickstart what once promised to be an all-time AEW feud that suffered from sh*t luck timing due to injuries.

Sure, MJF feuded with Will Ospreay in a somewhat memorable International/American title angle in 2024, but the Cole storyline just laid out there never fully concluded until December 2024’s Worlds End. By that point, fans were just done with it and I’m guessing so were Cole and MJF. It was voted the worst feud of that year by readers of our website (yes, even AEW gets ‘worst’ awards on our website!) and it was hard to dispute that. It was past the expiration point, but they had to drink the sour milk anyway.

He wrestled just 11 times in 2024 and after defeating Daniel Garcia at September 2024’s All Out (remember that whole ordeal about Garcia’s indecision on whether to re-sign affected this?), MJF disappeared for two months only to return for a Full Gear match against Roderick Strong that I completely forgot happened. I bet you did too.

After he beat Cole at Worlds End, he was gone for another two months, came back to beat Dustin Rhodes, took on Hangman Page at 2025’s Revolution, and then, there was the whole Hurt Syndicate thing that just…I don’t know what. Alrighty, then.

It wasn’t until his Mistico feud began in June 2025 that we finally got glimpses of the talent that was white hot for most of 2021, 2022 and 2023. He just didn’t feel as committed as he did before, likely because of outside interests like doing movie projects and such, and it was evident watching him on screen. Wrestling felt like one of the things he was doing rather than the primary thing he was doing.

That’s definitely not the case anymore.

Since last summer, everything old feels new again. There was the aforementioned Mistico feud and his rivalry with Mark Briscoe in which he physically pushed all the chips into the middle, especially in the tables n’ tacks match at last September’s All Out. While there was another three month gap with no in-ring activity, he regained the World title at last December’s Worlds End and it’s been one of the best moves Tony Khan has made creatively in a long time.

He’s defended the title seven times since then, two of those coming outside AEW as he committed to the “traveling champion” moniker. He has wrestled Page, Bandido, Brody King, Mike Bailey, Kevin Knight, Zilla Fatu, Alec Price, and this past weekend, Kenny Omega. The shortest of those was 17 minutes and he’s put everything he has into them. While not as star-laden yet in terms of challengers that his first reign had, I think I have overall enjoyed this run more and we’re only four months in.

He’s on TV regularly again, he’s wrestling more, and his promos feel more inspired and less laden with forced attempts at catchphrases. In short, it feels like he has fully bought into what’s being asked of him and he’s excelling, truly putting the World title as a North Star that everyone is trying to get to. That’s the way it should be and he’s nailing it.

Of course, that leads us to tonight’s Dynamite where he defends again, this time against past rival Darby Allin. There’s a narrative out there that Allin should win tonight because it’s where he trained as a wrestler, that it would be a good story, you need surprise title changes, blah, blah.

I’m here to tell you there’s no way MJF’s run should end tonight, even if it’s to create a moment that would just be erased at next month’s Double or Nothing in a rematch anyway.

AEW needs the MJF train to roll into their biggest show of the year: August’s All In. That’s just over four months away – plenty of time for intriguing feuds with Andrade El Idolo, Swerve Strickland, and maybe even someone like Kazuchika Okada. There’s zero reason to make a stop on the way to Wembley. Zero.

As to who MJF could defend against in London, there’s plenty of time to figure that out even though the odds-on favorite is the aforementioned Ospreay. I’m looking forward to continuing to enjoy the hopefully continued ride until we get there and more of MJF being the conductor.

Interview segment added to AEW Dynamite Spring BreakThru

AEW has announced a new addition to the lineup for tonight’s Spring BreakThru episode of Dynamite.

The fallout from AEW Dynasty takes place tonight on a special Dynamite episode from Everett, Washington. Coming off his loss to Ricochet at the pay-per-view, Chris Jericho will be interviewed by Renee Paquette.

“@ReneePaquette interviews @IAmJericho,” AEW announced. “Jericho’s #AEWDynasty return to the ring was an exciting battle vs @KingRicochet , before The Demand’s plan came together + Ricochet took the win! We’ll hear from Jericho [tonight]!”

Dynasty was Jericho’s first match for AEW following a year-long absence. Despite persistent rumors that he would be heading to WWE around the start of 2026, Jericho ultimately ended up returning to AEW on Dynamite two weeks ago and is back with the company for the long-term.

Angel of the Winds Arena is the venue for tonight’s show. In addition to this Jericho segment, three title matches have been booked, including a big World Championship bout between MJF and Washington native Darby Allin.

AEW Dynamite Spring BreakThru (Wednesday, April 15) —

  • AEW World Champion MJF defends against Darby Allin
  • TBS Champion Willow Nightingale defends against Kamille
  • TNT Champion Kevin Knight defends against Claudio Castagnoli
  • Renee Paquette interviews Chris Jericho

WOL: Don Callis joins us in studio!

Wrestling Observer Live with Bryan Alvarez and Filthy Tom Lawlor is back with special in-studio guest, DON CALLIS! We’ll discuss a ton of different topics including all the highlights of his career from WWF to Impact Wrestling to New Japan to AEW. He’ll be in Everett tomorrow for Dynamite as well. A fun show as always, so check it out~!

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AEW reveals Summer Blockbuster 2026 location

This June, AEW is coming to Cincinnati for special episodes of Dynamite and Collision.

It was announced today that AEW Summer Blockbuster 2026 will be held at The Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio on Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11. The first night will be a Dynamite episode while the second will be a Collision taping.

Tickets are set to go on sale to the general public next Monday (April 20).

Cincinnati is the hometown of AEW Continental Champion Jon Moxley. He’s featured on the Summer Blockbuster poster alongside AEW World Champion MJF, Women’s World Champion Thekla, and Tag Team Champions FTR.

Last year’s inaugural Summer Blockbuster was held in Portland, Oregon and aired as a four-hour live special. A 30-minute draw between Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay was among the matches that took place

In addition to these two shows, AEW has announced upcoming dates in Richmond, Virginia and Youngstown, Ohio:

  • Wednesday, June 3: Dynamite at Siegel Center in Richmond, Virginia
  • Saturday, June 6: Collision at Covelli Centre in Youngstown, Ohio
  • Wednesday, June 10: Dynamite Summer Blockbuster at Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Thursday, June 11: Collision Summer Blockbuster at Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio

AEW Dynamite ratings down for Dynasty go-home show

Wednesday night’s episode of AEW Dynamite averaged 654,000 viewers on TBS, down 10.4% from the previous week. It was the lowest audience for the show since March 11th.

Dynamite averaged a 0.14 rating in the 18-49 demo. That’s down 6.7% from last week and is the second highest rating the show has done in that category since February 4th.

The show went head to head with an NBA game on ESPN that topped all cable with a 0.35 18-49 rating. Dynamite finished 6th on the prime time cable charts for the night.

As compared to the same week in 2025 the overall viewership was down 0.8% while the 18-49 rating was down 17.7%.

Listed below are the last 11 weeks of overall viewership and 18-49 demo ratings for AEW Dynamite on TBS as well as the 10 week average in both categories. This week’s show was down 2.8% in overall viewers but up 16.7% in 18-49 as compared to recent averages.

DateAEW 18-49AEW total viewers
1/28/20260.09653,000
2/4/20260.15654,000
2/11/20260.12604,000
2/18/20260.12692,000
2/25/20260.1633,000
3/4/20260.12650,000
3/11/20260.09619,000
3/18/20260.13730,000
3/25/20260.14765,000
4/1/20260.15730,000
4/8/20260.14654,000
*10 wk avg0.12673,000
*not includingcurrent week

B&V: AEW Dynamite with Dynasty build, NXT, more!

The Bryan & Vinny Show is back with tons to talk about as we recap the AEW Dynamite go-home show for Dynasty this coming Sunday night, NXT with build for perhaps the swan song for a few different talents, look at the weekend Bryan and Vinny schedule, WrestleMania convention notes and more! A fun show as always so check it out~!

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WOR: WrestleMania, Dynasty, Dynamite and NXT, tons more!

Wrestling Observer Radio with Bryan Alvarez and Dave Meltzer is back with tons to talk about including the WrestleMania night one and two line-ups, TNA pulling wrestlers from matches and why, Alberto El Patron update, Ric Flair is angry and then not angry, Dynamite results and Dynasty line-ups, NXT TV, Collision spoilers and tons more! A fun show as always so check it out!

Timestamps:
Start: WWE WrestleMania 42 lineup for both nights
4:57: TNA pulls wrestlers from matches against AEW talent
11:11: Alberto el Patron update, the situation between Ric Flair, Roots of Fight, and WWE
19:07: Mexico notes on CMLL & a new TV deal, Catalina leaving CMLL for AAA
25:21: UFC lineup, Observer book on 1992 coming out
34:43: AEW Dynamite report
58:59: Ratings
1:03:11: WWE NXT notes
1:09:42: AEW Collision spoilers

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Three United Empire members make AEW debuts on Dynamite

Three members of United Empire made their AEW in-ring debuts as part of Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite.

After last weekend’s Sakura Genesis, Will Ospreay asked newly-crowned IWGP Heavyweight Champion Callum Newman for some help in AEW against the Death Riders from the group he founded.

Newman came through as he, Francesco Akira and Henare joined Ospreay in an anything goes eight-man tag team match against Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, PAC and Daniel Garcia on Dynamite as a teaser for Sunday’s Ospreay vs. Moxley match at Dynasty. The eight men also had a show-opening brawl, leading to the match that wasn’t announced before the show.

The end came when Moxley went for a fourth Paradigm Shift on Ospreay, but Newman ran in and hit Moxley with a clothesline, setting him up for a Ospreay Hidden Blade through a table as both Ospreay and Newman pinned Moxley. The double pin and Newman bailing out Ospreay could be important seeds for an eventual turn on Ospreay down the road.

It’s unknown if the three men will also be in attendance at Sunday’s pay-per-view.

AEW Dynamite live results: Chris Jericho addresses his return

AEW Dynamite airs live tonight from Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Four segments have been advertised for the show ahead of time. Chris Jericho will address his AEW return from last week in Winnipeg on tonight’s episode. Kenny Omega is also advertised as he prepares to challenge MJF for the AEW World Championship in Vancouver on Sunday at AEW Dynasty.

Also scheduled for Wednesday’s show, Queen Aminata returns to the ring for the first time in six months and will receive a TBS Championship match against Willow Nightingale.

A trios match is also set for tonight, with Andrade El Idolo, Mark Davis, and Konosuke Takeshita of the Don Callis Family facing Darby Allin, Bandido, and Jack Perry.

  • Willow Nightingale (c) vs. Queen Aminata for the AEW TBS title
  • Chris Jericho to address his return
  • Darby Allin, Bandido & Jack Perry vs. Don Callis Family (Konosuke Takeshita, Mark Davis, & Andrade El Idolo)
  • Kenny Omega to speak

Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern.

AEW Dynamite comes on the air with Excalibur welcoming us, but we cut backstage to Will Ospreay & Jon Moxley slugging it out in the parking lot, but all the Death Riders make the save and start beating Ospreay down until a car pulls up and Alex Windsor gets out of the driver’s seat. New IWGP World Champion Callum Newman, Henare & Francesco Akira step out of the car and the brawl is on. Akira leaps off the hood of a car onto Claudio Castagnoli, Henare slammed Wheeler Yuta onto it, as Shafir & Windsor spill out into the crowd, as does Moxley & Ospreay, fighting in the ring. Shafir saves Moxley, but Windsor decks her with a lariat. Newman & PAC are paired off ringside, as Moxley & Daniel Garcia put the boots to Ospreay until Henare sprints out from the back, launching Moxley with a Pounce. Akira flies in with an assisted dropkick on Garcia, as PAC returns and tries a lariat on Henare, who no sells, allowing Newman to run in with a big boot and slingshot dive outside onto PAC. Castagnoli runs out to dish out uppercuts aplenty, but he & Henare tumble to the floor. Moxley locks Ospreay in a Rear Naked Choke, but Ospreay rolls out right at Newman hits Moxley with a top rope double stomp. Moxley escapes a Tiger Driver, as Death Riders bail, leaving The United Empire standing tall in one hell of a start to Dynamite.

Ospreay takes the mic and said he flew to Japan to bring Henare, Akira, the youngest Heavyweight champ of all time, Callum Newman. He’s going to give Moxley about 90 minutes, challenging them tonight in the main event, Death Riders vs. United Empire.

-Don Callis is backstage to talk about Kyle Fletcher having to vacate the TNT Title, saying it’s thrown a wrench into their plans of becoming the longest TNT Champion of all time. Now, the TNT Title will be up for grabs in a Casino Gauntlet at Dynasty and was ready to make ProtOkada vs. The Young Bucks at the PPV, but he already has a pivot that will blow your minds. Okada & Takeshita, he only hears when will they fight, when he’s like Phil Jackson, and like Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen, he kept those stars together and you won’t see them fight for a very long time, as Callis calls the shots. Callis said he might take the money MJF paid them for getting rid of Darby Allin, pick up Connor McDavid and hit the town. Tonight, they are Kyle Fletcher Strong.

National Champion Jungle Jack Perry, Bandido & Darby Allin vs. The Don Callis Family (Andrade El Idolo, Konosuke Takeshita & Mark Davis)

(I first want to say RIP Bo Lueders, guitarist for Harm’s Way and close friend of Brody King, who is attending the funeral, thus why Bandido replaced his tag partner in this match tonight. The match was an action packed party match and one that was controlled a lot by The Callis Family, who looked great in this one. I was surprised Davis, who had laid out Perry with his trifecta of moves, didn’t just pin him, instead it was Andrade standing tall. The post-match, more chaos aplenty, as we set up not only Takeshita & Okada vs. The Bucks at Dynasty, but keep the wheels going of the never-ending bad blood between the two crown jewels of the Callis Family.)

Bell sounded and Andrade immediately left up the ramp, confusing Allin, who quickly hit Takeshita with a Code Red for two. Davis almost got his gut-wrench piledriver, but Perry flew in with a missile dropkick. Perry & Bandido hit double dives to the floor, as Allin took the mic, called Andrade one of the best wrestlers in the world, but stop being Don Callis’ little b*tch. Andrade came back to the stage, but Takeshtia laid out Allin with a Chaos Theory suplex down the aisle. Callis came to the ring to join commentary, as Takeshita worked over Allin back in the ring. Perry made a tag, cazadora arm drag to the outside on Takeshita, as Davis was sent out with him, allowing Perry to hit a big moonsault. Back inside, Perry tried leaping off the top, but was swatted in mid-air like a fly by a Takeshita forearm. Callis said Fletcher being injured will unite his Family and make them stronger than ever. Andrade dropped Perry over the guard rail before posing with yet another female fan ringside, taking a selfie that Callis said would cost her $60 Canadian.

Nigel McGuinness said Andrade could break up any marriage within a quarter mile and Callis said you’re calling him El Homewrecker and hopes they can get a sponsorship. Perry was worked over for an extended time until he avoided a Davis leaping senton and splash, catching him with an enzugiri and hot tag to Bandido. Cazadora hurricanrana on Davis, Gorilla Press to Takeshita onto Davis, as he signaled for 21-Plex, but Takeshita rolled out into a perfect Blue Thunder Bomb for two. Davis tried to catch Bandido with his bounce back lariat, only Bandido countered into a snap hurricanrana pin for two. Another enzugiri delivered, Takeshita comes in with a wild forearm, Perry met him with a Poison Rana, as Andrade tripped him up, only played to the crowd, giving Allin a chance to hit a Tope. Allin went after Callis, but Davis made the save, sending Allin crashing into the guard rail. Davis & Takeshita swing Allin clear over the railing and timekeepers table, crashing hard. Bandido was slammed on the edge of the ring with a powerbomb, as Perry tried fighting everyone back inside, but was clobbered with a home run right hand, bounce back lariat and gut wrench piledriver by Davis. Andrade came in to pick up the pieces and hit The DM on Perry for the win.

Post-match, Andrade kept making the belt gesture to Callis, as Perry had the boots put to him, as Bandido & Allin crawled back in. Andrade pointed to the Dynasty sign before punting Allin low, as Bandido was sent outside, while Callis gouged the eyes of Perry. The Young Bucks music hit and they sprint out to save Perry and take the fight to Davis & Takeshita until more Don Callis Family members hit the ring. Lance Archer, Hechicero, El Clon all take superkicks, as Davis took a BTE Trigger for good measure. Takeshita was about to take a Meltzer Driver, but Kazuchika Okada ran out and put a stop to it. Takeshita & Okada on the same page momentarily, putting the boots to The Bucks as they stare each other down, shove one another and start trading forearms. The Family step in to separate the two, as The Rascalz appear in the ring and hit a triple dive onto the entire Family, aside from Okada, who laughed in Takeshita’s face. That distraction allowed Myron Reed to lay out Okada with a huge dive, as we’re told Okada will face Reed on Collision for the International Title.

Match Result: The Don Callis Family defeated Jungle Jack Perry, Brody King & Darby Allin when Andrade pinned Perry

-Lexy Nair is backstage with Doc Sampson and said last week, MJF was trying to get into Kenny Omega’s head with what he said the doctor’s told him. Sampson said Omega did have issues with diverticulitis, but he’s in the best shape of his life, cleared by surgeons and by him and he’s not happy with MJF doing that. He has to get back to work and if Nair had any other questions, just ask.

**********

Willow Nightingale vs. Queen Aminata in a TBS Title Open Challenge

(A very competitive match in Aminata’s return, as she showed a lot of aggression here, looking excellent, even in defeat. A strong showing for Nightingale as well, as I’m glad we’re getting more TBS Title defenses in recent weeks and it certainly looks like Shida wants another shot, despite losing last week in her return on Collision.)

Aminata’s first match back in 5 months, as she dropped Nightingale with a swinging Fisherman’s Suplex out the gate for a quick near fall. Nightingale was forced to regroup, but Aminata was right out after her, with both trading stiff shots. Hikaru Shida is seen watching on in the crowd, as Aminata missed a running boot against the railing, as Nightingale sent her crashing into it. Back inside, Aminata is clutching her neck, as Nightingale unloaded a series of short arm lariats. Flying arm drag from Aminata, who followed up with a running PK for two.

Chocolate Kisses dished out, as Aminata kept Nightingale grounded until a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker turned the tables. Shotgun dropkick off the middle rope, followed by a Death Valley Driver for two. Aminata dodged a corner cannonball, rolled outside, but didn’t create enough distance, as Nightingale flew off the apron with a somersault senton. Back inside, Nightingale tried a moonsault, but crashed and burned, as Aminata exploded out with a forearm for a close near fall. Aminata went up top and hit a double stomp, but again, Nightingale kicked out. Both trade stiff shots, as Nightingale dares Aminata to hit her like she wants to be champ and Aminata obliged, cutting off a Nightingale Pounce with a forearm, but Nightingale bounced up off the ropes into a home run lariat into the double down.

Both ladies rise, as Amianta tried another swinging suplex, but Nightingale got a high stack backslide for two. Aminata put on the brakes for the Doctor Bomb and countered into an Air Raid Crash for a close two. Nightingale hit a big boot and Pounce that launched Aminata outside, as Nightingale brought her back in for a Doctor Bomb for the win. Post-match, Nightingale shook Aminata’s hand, as Shida shook her head looking on.

Match Result: Willow Nightingale defeated Queen Aminata to retain the TBS Title

-A very good and detailed video package of MJF’s impact of the sport of professional wrestling is shown.

**********

Chris Jericho Addresses His AEW Return

Big ovation and reaction for Jericho, who said it’s great to be back in AEW and Dynamite, ready to sign his new contract just a few kilometers down the road where he started his career at the Ponoka Moose Hall. Jericho has taken a lot of risks in his career, including taking one of the biggest in 2019 on AEW and he’s so happy to continue to help build the company he helped start. It’s a risk that paid off, as some the risks have paid off, while others haven’t, he’s had some stinkers, but it’s ok, he loves pro wrestling. He respects this business and that’s why he’s in the best shape of his career, what the fans deserve. It doesn’t matter if he’s in the opener, main event, not on the show at all, he wants to helps others and this company, which is all that matters to him. Loud Jericho chants, as he said it’s the perfect time to sign this contract when Ricochet’s music hits and out walks The Demand.

Ricochet said Canada freakin sucks, he hates it here, but didn’t come out here to talk about that, he came to talk to Jericho, they come in peace. If they came out here to hurt Jericho, Kaun would’ve already pulled the trigger. They want Jericho to do himself a favor and just don’t, don’t do any of this, don’t come back, why would he want to, out a year he’s bound to be rusty. They both know there’s a difference between sing shape and ring shape, but he’ll give credit where it’s due, Jericho is one of the best AEW champions of all time and without him, AEW might not have had the rise that it did. He doesn’t know how much AEW Jericho has been watching, but Ricochet is kind of the man right now, attendance is up, ratings are up and he’s the inaugural National Champion. It’s all due to The Rise of Ricochet, as he speaks for everyone in saying no one wants Jericho here and get out of AEW before he gets himself hurt.

Jericho can’t believe how bald Ricochet is, but he respects him, only he doesn’t give a sh*t what he thinks. Jericho has a clause in his contract saying he can choose anyone he wants to wrestle at Dynasty on Sunday. He can choose Kaun or Liona, the popcorn guy in the 14th row, his nephew from Alberta or Conor McGregor himself (I think he was going for Connor McDavid), but said he has a decision to make. Instantly Jericho said he made his mind up saying he hasn’t had to do this in 10 years, but for Ricochet, it’s valid. You know what happens when you’re bald, wearing a fancy pants sweatsuit and when Jericho needs an opponent when he doesn’t have one? Jericho reveals his personalized clipboard and said Ricochet just made the list, signing the contract, saying he’ll see Ricochet on Sunday.

-Lexy Nair is backstage with The Don Callis Family and said Andrade will take care of Darby Allin and said while he wanted ProtOkada vs. The Young Bucks, something the fans were drooling to see, but he has something even bigger and better, Takeshita & Okada vs. The Bucks. Takeshita said no and Callis was insulted, saying this is for Kyle, they need to come together and beat The Bucks. Takeshita agrees, but said he wants to challenge Okada for the International Title. Callis said he needs this match to happen and said it’s fine, if they get the job done at Dynasty, Takeshita gets his title shot and they can get it out of their system. Callis demands they shake hands and they do, as Okada pulls him in, saying Takeshita is Scottie Pippen, Okada is Michael Jordan. They have to be pulled apart to end the segment.

Tommaso Ciampa vs. Mascara Dorada for the #1 Spot in the TNT Title Casino Gauntlet at Dynasty

The TNT Title is placed on the commentary table, as Ciampa gives a long look at Silvy before the match begins. Ciampa tried working over the arm, but Dorada’s speed prevented that from happening, as both trade quick pin attempts until Ciampa scurries out of a LeBell Lock to the outside to look at the title again. Back inside, Ciampa side-stepped a flipping Dorada, who grabbed the arm, scaled the ropes into a double springboard arm drag. Thrust kick sent Ciampa outside, where he dodged a Dorada dive and clobbered him with a running knee. Ciampa wanted another back inside, as Dorada avoided and the two exchanged chops before Dorada got hurricanrana from the corner and Tornillo outside to follow.

Ciampa was able to gain control and slam Dorada repeatedly into the commentary table and railing, but back inside, Dorada answered with a wild arm drag and hurricanrana. Ciampa tried to sweep out the legs on the apron, but Dorada hurdled, hit a PK and massive moonsault off the ring post to the outside. Quickly back inside, 450 Splash connects, but Ciampa kicked out. Back inside, Ciampa ate a leg lariat, as Dorada tried a handspring, but Ciampa hit a low dropkick and Project Ciampa for the closest near fall of the match. Ciampa wanted his Psycho Driller but Dorada slid out with a flipping Electric Chair neckbreaker for two. Dorada went up top for a moonsault, but Ciampa got the boots up, lowered the knee pad, charged, but ate a round house kick. Dorada tried another kick, but got hung up in the ropes, allowing Ciampa to hit Widow’s Bell and the running knee for the win.

Match Result: Tommaso Ciampa defeated Mascara Dorada to earn the #1 Spot in the TNT Title Casino Gauntlet at Dynasty

-The Dogs are backstage talking about losing the 8-man tag last week on Collision, but not to worry, they have two bodies. Orange Cassidy & Roderick Strong are shown beaten down, as Gabe Kidd said The Conglomeration have no one left and question how Mistico & JetSpeed think they can run the Trios division when there’s a three headed dog ready to bite their heads off? Clark Connors said they’re all back together now, as he took Cassidy’s glasses for himself. Finlay said on Collision, they’re coming for their bodies and gold.

**********

-Lexy Nair is backstage with Thekla and said to Jamie Hayter that the kingdom has changed and she’s never going to touch the Women’s Title again now that Thekla is champ. She calls Hayter the dumbest b*tch there is and will show exactly that at Dynasty.

Adam Copeland & Christian Cage Address FTR

Copeland said jealousy and pettiness is what started all of this and blew up Rated FTR. They said they were in Copeland’s shadow, claiming to be glorified henchmen, when it’s not Copeland’s fault that it was reality slapping them in their cold, dumb faces. Copeland said at Dynasty, the C&C Dynasty take their rightful place on top of the mountain as AEW Tag Team Champions. Cage said wherever FTR are, sit down and shut their mouths as he conducts business. FTR have not only piss off Cage & Cope, but also the entire country of Canada. As everyone’s favorite father figure, Cage said they’re been very naughty, so naughty Cage paid a visit to both of their mother’s. Just so there’s no confusion, Cage said he banged them both. Cage doesn’t want Stokely’s mother to feel left out, so when he visits her, it’ll be as one half of the Tag Team Champions.

FTR & Stokely came out to the stage, as RPG Vice blindsided Copeland & Cage in the ring, as FTR joined Trent Beretta & Rocky Romero in the beatdown, as RPG Vice hit Copeland in the ribs with a chair and Beretta hit a running knee. Wheeler escaped a Killswitch and sent Cage into a belt shot by Stokely, as FTR held up Cage and Stokely hit a Spear. FTR placed Cage’s arm through a chair, as Wheeler went up to Pillmanize it, as Stokely first stole Cage’s watch and then Wheeler stomped down on the arm. FTR stood tall holding the Tag Team Titles, as Excalibur pleaded for medical attention for Cage.

**********

-Darby Allin is backstage and said people would say he has a death wish and he doesn’t care about anything in this life, when it’s the exact opposite, he cares too much. He’s scared that maybe he can’t win the big one and be the face of this company, as doing that means you need to be World Champion. Andrade doesn’t understand what he’s gotten himself into on Sunday, whoever walks out between Omega & MJF, Allin needs this win more than anything. In a world that always says you’re not enough, Allin is enough and needs this more than anyone could ever imagine.

Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, PAC & Daniel Garcia) vs. The United Empire (Will Ospreay, Callum Newman, Henare & Francisco Akira) in Chaos in Canada

(Chaos in Canada was definitely the right name for this, as this was a very fun intro for the United Empire boys. I thought Newman, Henare & Akira all got to show off what they are capable of, as the fans were behind them from the jump. This match was also your reminder (if you happened to foolishly forget) that Castagnoli is a friggin horse and was the MVP of the Death Riders tonight. It was a great go-home for Moxley & Ospreay, who finally has backup and the numbers aren’t as one sided as they’ve been for so long.)

Excalibur brought up how Ospreay won the IWGP Title at 28, while Newman won it this past week at the age of 23. Death Riders attacked during their entrance, as Ospreay hit a Pip, Pip, Cheerio off the guard rail on Moxley. Castagnoli gorilla pressed Akira on the stage into a knee breaker, as Alex Windsor rushes out and starts up a brawl with Marina Shafir. Henare suffered the same fate as Akira, who shows back up with a ladder to deck Castagnoli, Garcia & PAC before bringing the ladder to the ring. It’s set up, as Akira climbs and dives off the top onto a pile of Death Riders, with Castagnoli shown clutching his right ankle in the process.

United Empire continue to be in the driver’s seat, as a table is set-up ringside while continuing to pick apart the Death Riders. PAC delivered a neckbreaker to Ospreay, before going after Akira, as the two have a lighting quick sequence ending in Akira hitting a huge leg lariat. Newman & Ospreay hit double dives onto Moxley & Castagnoli before pulling out another table and ring steps. Newman & Ospreay want a double suplex through it, but Castagnoli makes the save, launching Newman onto the barricade and caught a leaping Ospreay into a huge back breaker. It’s the Death Riders turn in control, as Akira is triple teamed in the ring with locomotion corner strikes. Newman rushes back in and shoots a double leg on Castagnoli, but suffered the same fate as Akira as a result. Moxley continues beating Henare ringside, before turning to Ospreay, biting at the ear. Henare took locomotion strikes, until he exploded out and dropped everyone in his path with clotheslines. Outside, Henare brought Garcia up the steps and again, Castagnoli made the save, catching a leaping Henare, walked him all around ringside and suplexed Henare through the table on the opposite side of the ring.

Moxley brought out kendo sticks, broke them apart and used the jagged edges to rake the back of Ospreay before trying to stab Ospreay in the eye, but Ospreay thankfully fought that off. Moxley, always thinking on his feet, opted to jam the broken kendo stick up Ospreay’s nose and that got exactly the chant you’d imagine. A table was placed in the corner, as Moxley flipped off the crowd before spiking Ospreay with a piledriver. Moxley sank in a rear naked choke, but Ospreay escaped in the corner right as Henare ran in with a running knee. Everyone gets in the ring and hits home run shots, as Castagnoli cleared Henare, Newman dropped Castagnoli, PAC with the bounce back German on Newman, Akira took out PAC, Garcia clobbered Akira with a big boot, as Ospreay tried a Hidden Blade on Moxley, but Garcia was there to sink in the Dragon Tamer, as Moxley hit a Curb Stomp. Garcia made the cover, but Newman broke the count, sending Garcia outside.

Akira showed no fear with Moxley, who tried his best, but was turned inside out with a lariat. Slugfest ensues with Moxley & Newman, who hit a rolling elbow, thrust kick and was joined by Ospreay to hit dueling Oscutters on Moxley & Garcia for a double two count. Castagnoli saved Moxley from a Tiger Driver and hit the Giant Swing. Blue Thunder Bomb by Henare on PAC, as Akira tried a slingshot dive on Castagnoli, was caught and taken up the steps to go through the table, but Henare made the save and tackled Castagnoli through the table. Akira tried to put Garcia through the table, but it didn’t break, neither did his second try via double stomp. Newman flew off the top with a splash on PAC through another table, as it leaves Ospreay & Moxley to slug it out. Ospreay tried Pip, Pip, Cheerio, but landed right into multiple Paradigm Shifts. Moxley tried for a fourth, but Newman returned to deck Moxley with a clothesline and sent him up in the corner for Ospreay to put him through the table with a Hidden Blade. Ospreay & Newman pile on Moxley to get the pin.

Post-match, Newman told Ospreay to finish off Moxley and with a smile on his face, Ospreay was about to, when Castagnoli tackled Moxley to the outside, saving him. Death Riders were nearly all left in a heap on the aisle, as Ospreay was staring them down.

Match Result: United Empire defeated Death Riders when Ospreay & Newman pinned Moxley

-Similar to the video package that MJF got earlier in the night, we get one for Kenny Omega, highlighting his career from Ring of Honor & Pro Wrestling Guerrilla before going to DDT Pro & New Japan Pro Wrestling. This was a phenomenal highlight reel for Omega, documenting his rise and success in AEW as the first Triple Crown Champion before diverticulitis almost ended his career and life.

Kenny Omega & MJF Face-Off One Last Time

Tony Schiavone is in the ring (10 minutes after the top of the hour) to introduce Omega to the ring, as he walks out in a snazzy suit to a big ovation. Omega said it’s a very nostalgic feeling being here, as it’s been about 25 years, as he put over the independent wrestling scene he drove to watch. Last week, he almost lost his cool if it wasn’t for Speedball Bailey talking him off the ledge. Omega said it wasn’t the Ibushi comment MJF made or the diverticulitis line that commentary brings up every single time he wrestles. Omega said while it hurt really bad, as one famous man said, cry me a river. He can’t lie, at one point, sympathy was a good thing, but every single week, it got old. What set Omega off was thinking of all his nicknames in his career, they aren’t just words, he’s never said it about himself, it’s what the fans have referred to him as and he appreciates hearing it every time. AEW used to be just a concept where maybe fans could see the best wrestle, while the end of the day, what made MJF famous is flapping his gums. Omega remembers when he talked his sh*t, but knows that anything MJF can do, he can do better. He started thinking, maybe it should’ve been MJF who was pissed, as he realized all he can do is talk, knowing he could never do what Omega did in Japan or tell a story like he and a few others can.

Now, Omega realizes why he lost his cool, all this you see before you, he felt it was all on him, all Omega’s responsibility and save the place where the best wrestle. Omega said that he was wrong, it’s not just his legacy, it’s all their legacy and it doesn’t matter where they’re at, the fans deserve a champion who wears the belt with pride and it’s not IF Omega uses his weaknesses into strengths. While Omega might not be the same as he was before, it’s about working harder to protect the things he was afraid of before. Omega will take that title from MJF and start righting the wrongs Max has committed in this company. So be it, so it shall come to pass, at Dynasty, it will be MJF’s last defense and that, Omega can promise.

MJF’s music hits as a Burberry carpet is rolled out for the AEW World Champion who makes his way to the ring. MJF said he heard Omega talking like he was going to beat him in 2026 and he almost believed it; Omega is getting better at this talking thing. Deep down, the fans want to believe in Omega because they’re all scared sh*tless, realizing this could be Omega’s last shot, when MJF knows it will be. The clock is ticking on Omega’s career and brings up beating Omega the first time they wrestled and Omega had said he was at 70%. What’s his excuse going to be after Sunday when he’s allegedly 100%? Omega is going to find out the hard way like everyone else, you bring the best version of himself, he’ll find out like the rest, you aren’t on the level of The Devil. In front of everyone in Canada and the World, their God will fall and the Devil will rise on the throne where he belongs. It’s because I’m Maxwell Jacob Friedman and I’m Better Than You and You Know It.

Omega said he learns a little more about MJF each time they speak. He realizes what it means to MJF to protect his title and mockingly says to his “pal” to let bygones be bygones and give the photographers here what they want and shake Omega’s damn hand, Max. MJF fakes like he was leaving, tried a cheap shot, but ate a V-Trigger, as Omega steps on the finger and takes off the Dynamite Diamond Ring, placing it on his own finger. Omega knows MJF, he’s studied him and seen this a mile away. At the PPV, it’s not going to be how it’s always been, it won’t be MJF hitting his line, it’ll be Omega bidding everyone adieu, Goodbye and Goodnight, bang! Omega drops the ring onto the chest of MJF and leaves up the ramp, as MJF is recovering to end the show.

AEW Collision 4/11/26

  • JetSpeed & Mistico vs. The Dogs for the AEW Trios Titles
  • Rush vs. Anthony Bowens for the #2 Spot in the TNT Title Casino Gauntlet at Dynasty
  • Kazuchika Okada vs. Myron Reed for the AEW International Title
  • The Young Bucks vs. Hechicero & El Clon
  • Thekla & Marina Shafir vs. The Brawling Birds
  • The Hurt Syndicate Return to Action

AEW Dynasty 4/12/26

  • MJF vs. Kenny Omega for the AEW World Title
  • Jon Moxley vs. Will Ospreay for the AEW Continental Title
  • Thekla vs. Jamie Hayter for the AEW Women’s World Title
  • FTR vs. Adam Copeland & Christian Cage for the AEW World Tag Team Titles
  • Andrade El Idolo vs. Darby Allin
  • Chris Jericho vs. Ricochet
  • Kazuchika Okada & Konosuke Takeshita vs. The Young Bucks
  • Casino Gauntlet for the Vacant TNT Title
  • Zero Hour: Marina Shafir vs. Alex Windsor

Brody King explains reason for AEW Dynamite absence

Brody King is missing AEW Dynamite this week to attend the funeral of a friend who recently passed away.

It was announced last night that King won’t be appearing on Wednesday’s Dynamite due to personal reasons. In his place, Bandido will be teaming with Darby Allin & Jack Perry for a trios match against Andrade El Idolo, Konosuke Takeshita & Mark Davis.

On X/Twitter this afternoon, King thanked Bandido for taking his place and Tony Khan for allowing him to miss the show.

“I promise I would much rather be at Dynamite than having to attend my friends funeral,” King wrote. “Thank you to Bandido for being the best partner and stepping up in my absence and thank you to Tony for giving me the ability to be with my friends and family at this time. #Boluedersforver”

King’s friend Bo Lueders, a guitarist for the hardcore band Harm’s Way, passed away at 38 years old earlier this month. Lueders was also close with wrestlers CM Punk and Danhausen.

“Rest in peace Bo. I love you. I’ll miss you,” Danhausen wrote on April 2. “Check on your friends, tell them you love them.”

Dynamite is being held at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada tonight and will include Willow Nightingale vs. Queen Aminata for the TBS Championship, an appearance by Chris Jericho, and more.

WOL: NXT TV, Dynamite, Dynasty main event thoughts, more!

Wrestling Observer Live with Bryan Alvarez and Lance Storm is back with tons to talk about including a look at NXT from Tuesday night, which had a good half and a bad half, the AEW Dynamite line-up for tonight, some thoughts regarding the main event of Dynasty, WWE’s social media policy in effect, and tons more! A fun show as always so check it out~!

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Bandido replacing Brody King in AEW Dynamite trios match

Brody King has been replaced by his tag team partner, Bandido, in the upcoming AEW Dynamite trios match.

Previously set to tag along with Darby Allin and Jack Perry on the April 8 edition of AEW Dynamite, King has now taken himself off the schedule and will be missing this Wednesday’s Dynamite due to personal reasons.

King’s partner, Bandido, will now replace him in the team as the trio takes on the team of Andrade El Idolo, Mark Davis, & Konosuke Takeshita. AEW President Tony Khan earlier announced the match change on social media.

AEW Dynamite lineup | April 8, 2026

The upcoming AEW Dynamite episode is scheduled to take place at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Canada. Here is the updated lineup for the show:

  • Willow Nightingale (c) vs. Queen Aminata for the AEW TBS title
  • Chris Jericho to address his return
  • Darby Allin, Bandido & Jack Perry vs. Don Callis Family (Konosuke Takeshita, Mark Davis, & Andrade El Idolo)
  • Kenny Omega to speak
  • Jon Moxley appearance
  • Will Ospreay appearance