All Elite Wrestling (AEW) closed out 2025 with Jon Moxley triumphing in the Continental Classic and capturing the MJF World Title at the year’s final major pay-per-view, World’s End. While some anticipated Moxley’s victory, the outcome against MJF surprised many, particularly those who thought Samoa Joe’s championship reign wouldn’t end so soon. There are growing discussions surrounding the titles held by champions like Chris Statlander, FTR, and Babes of Wrath.
At Wrestling Inc., we often group these inquiries into one overarching question after each pay-per-view to gain insight into AEW’s future. So as we embark on 2026, it’s a fitting time to reflect: What lies ahead?
Will FTR Have a Busy 2026?
FTR has retained the AEW Men’s World Tag Team Championships after a hard-fought Chicago Street Fight against The Bang Bang Gang at AEW World’s End. Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler have consistently been recognized as a top-tier team, but the intrigue now centers on who might challenge them for the titles in the forthcoming weeks and months.
Considering recent challengers and the potential absence of "Switchblade" Jay White and Kolten Gunn, the opportunity for Juice Robinson and Austin Gunn to vie for the titles seems to have slipped away. FTR might need a babyface opponent to compete on television ahead of Revolution, yet the storyline development appears to be lackluster.
While the Young Bucks have officially turned babyface, their extensive history with FTR could complicate any future encounters. Jon Moxley’s recent shift towards a babyface persona raises questions about whether the rest of the Death Riders can team up effectively against FTR. Other factions, like The Hurt Syndicate, are currently sidelined, and teams like Private Party seem to be departing from the company. So, who remains viable?
JetSpeed could easily fit the bill, having shown great chemistry with FTR during their matches, but don’t overlook the dynamic of Adam Copeland and Christian Cage, who are looking for one last title run. As fresh possibilities for FTR emerge, including potential matchups with Jurassic Express or the newly reunited Eddie Kingston and Ortiz, the year ahead looks busy, but can they continue their reign?
Written by Sam Palmer
Who Will Face Willow Nightingale and Harley Cameron Next?
Willow Nightingale and Harley Cameron have had a fantastic 2025, making history as the inaugural AEW Women’s World Tag Team Champions and successfully defending their titles at "World’s End" against TBS Champion Mercedes Mone and ROH Women’s Champion Athena. With the new year on the horizon, fans are left wondering what challenges await Nightingale and Cameron after their decisive victories.
Surprisingly, AEW hasn’t fully explored a program featuring the Babes of Wrath against "Timeless" Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa, despite the former winning the tournament for the inaugural tag championships against Timeless Love Bombs. With Nightingale and Cameron seemingly putting the Mone and Athena saga behind them, they now have the chance to take on various talented women’s tag teams, which could invigorate a division that has struggled with proper storylines.
Mone and Athena may still have unresolved issues following a chaotic match that may lead to a feud. With Nightingale now positioned as Mone’s next challenger, the dynamics could shift significantly, potentially leading to an engaging storyline.
Written by Angeline Pugh
What’s Next for Darby Allin Post-Gabe Kidd?
Darby Allin made a triumphant return from injury just in time for AEW World’s End, where he faced Gabe Kidd and emerged victorious in a climactic match. This victory, however, leaves Allin without a clear direction following a tumultuous rivalry filled with physical confrontations and an intense steel cage match at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door.
As we head into 2026, Allin’s path remains uncertain, especially with AEW’s next pay-per-view not scheduled until March. Allin’s recent match history this year casts doubt on whether he’ll enter the AEW World Championship scene, especially after MJF’s victory.
Uncertainty also surrounds Kidd’s future with New Japan Pro Wrestling, as reports suggest that his contract is nearing its end without definitive updates. This ambiguity leaves fans speculating on what to expect from both Allin and Kidd going forward.
Written by Daisy Ruth
How Will Chris Statlander Advance from Here?
On the December 13, 2024, episode of "AEW Rampage," Chris Statlander vowed to keep progressing, and she certainly delivered in 2025 by defeating "Timeless" Toni Storm to become the first woman to hold both the TBS Championship and the AEW Women’s World Championship. With a solid title defense against Jamie Hayter at "World’s End," Statlander looks ahead to 2026 with her championship reign at stake.
With established competitors like Storm and Hayter sidelined, Statlander must now focus on emerging challengers like Thecla and the Sisters of Sin, who may pose threats to her title. Yet, she could receive support from fellow babyface teams like the Babes of Wrath, adding intriguing dynamics to the women’s tag team landscape.
Statlander’s reign could hinge on the return of familiar faces or whether new talent rises to challenge her. With some questioning whether Mone poses a real threat, it remains to be seen how the AEW women’s division unfolds in 2026.
Written by Angeline Pugh
How Will Kazuchika Okada Handle His Title Loss?
Kazuchika Okada’s decision to bypass the International Championship following his loss to Moxley impacted the ongoing narrative within AEW. Despite no longer being the unified champion, Okada still finds himself pursued by those eager to claim his title.
The fallout from his recent matches raises questions about loyalty within his camp, especially after his controversial victory over Konosuke Takeshita during the Continental Classic. Okada must now navigate relationships with his faction while dealing with potential challengers eyeing his title.
Additionally, Okada has an upcoming match against wrestling icon Hiroshi Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom, which might significantly impact his stature in New Japan Pro Wrestling. As he seeks redemption, the wrestling world will be watching closely to see how he rebounds.
Written by Max Everett
Can Jon Moxley Find His Balance as Continental Champion?
Jon Moxley’s journey through the Continental Classic culminated in a remarkable victory over Kazuchika Okada, marking his first reign as Continental Champion. Moxley’s persistence amid setbacks has raised questions about his direction now that he has a title in hand.
While his win allowed him to bypass defending the international title, lingering tensions within his faction and the looming influence of rivals like Konosuke Takeshita might complicate his reign. Moxley’s recent heroism may clash with the dynamics of the Death Riders, leading to potential conflicts.
Looking ahead, Moxley’s victory positions him for interesting storylines, possibly against the Don Callis Family. This new chapter in his career adds further excitement to AEW’s landscape.
Written by Max Everett
Who’s Next for MJF as AEW World Champion?
MJF kicked off his second reign as AEW World Champion at "World’s End," defeating notable opponents including Samoa Joe and Hangman Adam Page. With this fresh title run, the anticipation around his future challengers is building.
Bandido, the current ROH Men’s World Champion, has earned a title shot after winning the Dynamite Diamond Ring, setting the stage for an anticipated clash on January 14. If MJF successfully defends his title, the spotlight will shift to potential matchups against names like Kyle Fletcher, while others like Samoa Joe might linger in the title picture.
Regardless of challengers, MJF’s reign is poised to shape AEW’s narrative significantly as it heads into 2026.
Written by Sam Palmer
Fan Take: The developments in AEW’s storyline signify a pivotal moment for wrestling fans, as rivalries intensify and new challengers emerge. The potential matchups and feuds could dictate the landscape of professional wrestling, promising thrilling battles that keep fans engaged through 2026.
