AEW in 2024: Ups & Downs
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The year 2023 was tumultuous for AEW, marked by the fallout of the CM Punk controversy and other internal struggles. Despite these challenges, the promotion ended 2023 on a high note with the successful launch of the Continental Classic (C2). This strong finish set the stage for a promising start to 2024. Now, one year later, it’s time to reflect on how AEW capitalized on that momentum, where it faltered, and what lies ahead in 2025.
The Icon & The American Dragon Retire
2024 was a milestone year for AEW as it saw the retirement of two wrestling legends: Sting and Bryan Danielson. These moments were emotional highlights for the promotion, and AEW delivered in giving these iconic stars the sendoffs they deserved.
Sting’s retirement match—a tag team bout with protégé Darby Allin against The Young Bucks—has been hailed as one of the best retirement matches in wrestling history. It was a fitting end to a storied career, blending nostalgia, high-stakes action, and a heartwarming passing of the torch.
On the other hand, Bryan Danielson’s farewell is a bit more ambiguous. While his retirement was heavily promoted and impactful, there’s a lingering sense that his departure may not be permanent. Many speculate that he will return in a part-time capacity… Much like Sting’s role in AEW over the last few years. But, time will tell. Danielson’s future still remains a compelling story to watch.
The Women’s Division
AEW’s women’s division reached new heights in 2024, cementing this year as the best in its short history. A major catalyst for this growth was the signing of Mercedes Moné. The former WWE superstar brought instant star power and legitimacy to the division, making an immediate impact from her debut.
Key rivalries, particularly between Mariah May and Toni Storm, provided some of AEW’s most captivating storylines. Both wrestlers were standout performers, elevating the division with their compelling characters and in-ring performances. Meanwhile, established stars like Kris Statlander and Thunder Rosa, as well as rising talents like Harley Cameron, had strong showings throughout the year.
AEW has often been criticized for its handling of women’s wrestling in the past. But, 2024 demonstrated the promotion’s ability to deliver meaningful and memorable stories for its female roster.
The State of The Tag Team Division
While the women’s division soared, AEW’s once-iconic tag team division continued to face challenges. Once hailed as the best in professional wrestling, the division has been struggling for the last two years. This trend persisted in 2024, despite The Young Bucks doing their best to carry the division to an acceptable standard.
There was a glimmer of hope with Private Party’s championship win, injecting much-needed energy into the scene. Looking ahead to 2025, the division has several potential catalysts for a resurgence. The return of injured teams and the possible reunion of The Golden Lovers (Kenny Omega & Kota Ibushi) could provide the spark needed to restore the division’s former glory. AEW must capitalize on these opportunities to reignite interest in tag team wrestling.
Tony Khan’s Booking
AEW’s booking in 2024 was an improvement over 2023. But, it still fell short of the heights reached during the promotion’s 2020-2022 peak. AEW earned its reputation on consistent, long-term storytelling. However, in recent years, that consistency has wavered.
While some storylines, such as those in the women’s division or Sting’s retirement, were executed brilliantly… Others felt rushed or underdeveloped. For AEW to reclaim its position as a leader in storytelling, it needs to prioritize coherence and follow-through in its narratives. A return to the meticulous booking of its earlier years could help AEW regain its creative edge.
TV & Business
2024 was a pivotal year for AEW’s business operations, particularly regarding its television contract. After months of speculation, AEW secured a new and more lucrative TV deal. I will ensure their financial stability for the foreseeable future. This cash influx opens doors for investments in production, talent acquisition, and international expansion.
AEW also stands to benefit from WWE’s departure from traditional television in favor of streaming on Netflix. As WWE leaves behind significant TV contracts, AEW has the opportunity to step in and negotiate deals with international networks looking to fill that void. The most intriguing rumor is AEW’s potential partnership with FOX. It could provide the promotion with a substantial boost in visibility and reach. While this remains speculation for now, it is poised to be one of the major stories heading into 2025.
Expansion will be a major theme for AEW in 2025. The promotion has already announced plans for international shows in England, Japan, and Australia, marking a significant step in solidifying its global presence. Success in these markets could pave the way for further expansion into regions like Mexico, Spain, or other wrestling hotspots hungry for AEW’s brand of entertainment.
What’s Next?
Domestically, AEW has the chance to address its weaknesses—particularly in the tag team division and its inconsistent booking—while building on the successes of 2024. The addition of new talent, the continued elevation of its women’s division, and potential blockbuster returns could make 2025 a defining year for the promotion.
AEW in 2024 was a year of progress and growing pains. The promotion delivered unforgettable moments, while grappling with ongoing challenges in booking and its tag team division. With a secure TV contract, financial stability, and ambitious plans for international growth… AEW is well-positioned to make 2025 its most impactful year yet. Whether it can fully capitalize on these opportunities remains to be seen. But, the foundation is firmly in place for AEW to take another step forward in its evolution.
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