Folks, gather ’round because we’ve got a big update that’s shaking up the wrestling world like a snow globe! The AEWxNJPW Forbidden Door pay-per-view has always been a hot topic, especially regarding AEW’s lucha talent. In the past, stars like the Lucha Brothers, Komander, and Rush faced roadblocks due to AAA’s rivalry with New Japan’s partner, CMLL. But this year, it seems the landscape is changing faster than a lucha libre match!
On last night’s episode of “AEW Dynamite,” CMLL’s Rugido, Magnus, Esfinge, and Volador Jr. clashed with Blackpool Combat Club, while Rey Fenix emerged victorious in a four-way match, and Rush confronted MJF in a fiery face-off. These appearances raised eyebrows and questions among fans about whether the rules had shifted regarding AAA-affiliated luchadors appearing alongside CMLL talent.
Well, according to wrestling guru Dave Meltzer, that’s exactly what happened. On “Wrestling Observer Radio,” Meltzer revealed that AEW owner Tony Khan has managed to “work things out” between AEW, AAA, and CMLL. Now, AAA-affiliated talents can strut their stuff at the Forbidden Door PPV. When co-host Bryan Alvarez asked how Khan pulled off this magic trick, Meltzer simply replied, “money talks,” while also noting Khan’s robust relationships with New Japan and CMLL, and CMLL’s eagerness to promote its talent in the US.
This development not only explains why Rush and Fenix appeared last night but also hints at their prominent roles in AEW’s future. Fenix is set to challenge Will Ospreay for the AEW International Championship on next week’s “Dynamite,” and the intense showdown between Rush and MJF signals that their rivalry is just heating up.