AEW’s explosive Dynamite, new signings, and cross-promotional drama shake up the wrestling world
AEW Dynamite on July 16, 2025, delivered high-stakes action, major storyline twists, and set the stage for new rivalries. Meanwhile, the wrestling landscape saw major signings, social media bombshells, and international tournaments that could reshape the industry. Here’s everything you need to know about this pivotal week in pro wrestling.
AEW Dynamite: Match Results and Fallout
Trios and Tag Team Turmoil
AEW Dynamite’s July 16th card was stacked with high-impact matches. Kyle Fletcher’s victory over Mascara Dorada showcased his technical prowess, hinting at a future mid-card title run. The Don Callis Family, joined by The Young Bucks, triumphed in an all-star 8-man tag, signaling a possible heel turn for the Bucks as they align with Callis after losing their EVP status.
The$100k 4-Way Fight saw Thekla, with help from Julia Hart and Skye Blue, outmaneuver Willow Nightingale, Kris Statlander, and Queen Aminata. This result hints at a new women’s faction rising in AEW.
Kazuchika Okada’s quick win over Rafael Quintero was overshadowed by Swerve Strickland’s post-match confrontation, setting the stage for a potential dream feud. In the main event, Hangman Page, Mark Briscoe, and Powerhouse Hobbs overcame The Death Riders, with Darby Allin’s surprise appearance from the rafters helping the babyfaces stand tall. The fallout points to continued hostilities between Page and Moxley, with Allin possibly joining the fray.
Promos and Storyline Developments
Hangman Page opened the show with a heartfelt promo, teasing a future clash with MJF. Adam Copeland clarified his intentions toward FTR, not Christian Cage, and delivered a spear to Stokely Hathaway, escalating their rivalry.
Toni Storm’s flamboyant victory celebration was interrupted by Athena, who teased cashing in her Casino Gauntlet contract. This confrontation, amplified by social media buzz, has fans speculating about a high-stakes women’s title match. Backstage, AEW officials are reportedly thrilled with the chemistry between Storm and Athena, viewing their feud as a potential highlight for the division.
“My buffet is always open, and Athena, you’re next in line,” Storm quipped, blending humor and bravado.
Athena’s video response was chilling: “There will be no happy ending for you, Toni. I’m coming for that title.” The segment trended across wrestling Twitter, with fans and AEW’s official accounts fueling anticipation for their inevitable clash.
Swerve Strickland vs. Kazuchika Okada: Feud Brewing
After Okada’s match, Swerve Strickland confronted him in the ring, referencing his role in the Bucks’ downfall at All In. Don Callis intervened before things turned physical, but the tension was unmistakable. Backstage reports and booking hints suggest AEW is building toward a marquee feud between Swerve and Okada, possibly culminating at a major pay-per-view.
Major Signings and Rumored Moves
AEW bolstered its roster with the signings of Ricochet, MVP, Shelton Benjamin, Bobby Lashley, Megan Bayne, Josh Alexander, Mina Shirakawa, Mikey Bailey, and Kevin Knight. These additions strengthen AEW’s mid-card and tag divisions, while Josh Alexander’s technical skills and Mina Shirakawa’s international appeal stand out.
WWE countered by signing Penta El Zero M and is rumored to be pursuing Wardlow, Danhausen, and Hikaru Shida. NJPW welcomed back Gallows and Anderson, reinforcing its tag division, and is focused on retaining Konosuke Takeshita.
TNA made headlines by signing Maggie Lee and the Von Erich brothers, but the biggest news is Victoria Crawford (formerly Alicia Fox in WWE) officially joining TNA. “Yeah, so it’s official – I’m with TNA,” Crawford confirmed, marking a significant acquisition for the promotion.
Social Media Highlights
CM Punk’s WWE Revelations
On social media, CM Punk revealed he had a “handshake agreement” to return to WWE in 2019, but Vince McMahon “ghosted” him, preventing the deal. Punk also questioned the premise of WWE’s Netflix docuseries “WWE: Unreal,” stating he was taught to “protect the business.” These revelations reignited debate about WWE’s backstage culture and creative direction.
Source: eWrestlingNews, Wrestling Inc.
Roman Reigns’ Return Impact
Roman Reigns returned to Monday Night Raw after a three-month hiatus, sparking speculation about his SummerSlam opponents and future storylines. His comeback dominated wrestling Twitter, with fans and analysts debating who will challenge the Tribal Chief next.
Source: eWrestlingNews, Wrestling Inc.
NJPW G1 Climax 35 and Global Expansion
New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s G1 Climax 35 faced setbacks as Hirooki Goto was pulled due to an elbow injury, leading to a “Last Chance Play-In Gauntlet” featuring Taichi, Chase Owens, Satoshi Kojima, and Tomohiro Ishii. The ongoing “New Japan Soul 2025” tour at Korakuen Hall saw El Desperado defend the IWGP Junior Heavyweight title against Kosei Fujita and Hiroshi Tanahashi face Tiger Mask in a special anniversary match.
Cross-promotional news is heating up, with AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2025 in London already generating “one of the biggest gates in AEW history,” according to Tony Khan. NJPW’s international partnerships continue to expand, keeping the promotion at the forefront of global wrestling.
Source: PWMania, Wrestling Observer Newsletter
TNA Slammiversary: AJ Styles Rumors and Major Signing
Speculation is at a fever pitch about AJ Styles possibly appearing at this weekend’s TNA Slammiversary. TNA President Carlos Silva’s promise of a “phenomenal” event—a clear nod to Styles’ nickname—has fueled rumors, with reports confirming “talks have absolutely happened” for a major WWE star appearance. However, uncertainty remains due to Styles’ current WWE contract.
Victoria Crawford’s signing is official, adding star power and experience to TNA’s women’s division.
Source: PWInsider, WrestlingNewsSource
Wrestling’s New Era
This week’s AEW Dynamite set the tone for a summer of high drama, with new alliances, rising stars, and feuds that could define the year. Major signings across AEW, WWE, NJPW, and TNA are reshaping the competitive landscape, while social media revelations and international tournaments keep fans buzzing. As the road to SummerSlam, Forbidden Door, and Slammiversary heats up, now is the time to tune in and witness wrestling’s next evolution.
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