One big thing: Mariah May’s 9-month storyline culminates at AEW All In London
Mariah May will challenge Timeless Toni Storm for the AEW Women’s World Championship at All In London, marking the peak of a complex narrative that began with May as Storm’s protégé.
The backstory:
• May debuted in AEW as Storm’s understudy
• After winning the Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament, May turned on Storm
• The betrayal occurred on the July 10 episode of AEW Dynamite in a bloody beatdown
What they’re saying:
May told Sports Illustrated:
“I was so interested in the story that Tony told me. My favorite part of wrestling is the storyline, and this was an amazing storyline. I was immediately invested.”
Why it matters:
This match represents a new era in AEW’s women’s division, showcasing long-term storytelling and character development. It also highlights AEW’s commitment to building new stars through intricate narratives.
Behind the scenes:
• Tony Khan’s vision for May’s character was inspired by classic films “Sunset Boulevard” and “All About Eve”
• May’s background as a film enthusiast helped her connect with the character concept
May on the character inspiration:
“I was a bit of a black-and-white film nerd growing up, especially as a teenager, so I knew all about it. I love theater, and I became obsessed with old black-and-white movies. I’d wake up, have a cup of tea, and watch. So it felt like a completely normal idea to me–it tied into my life.”
The bottom line:
The May vs. Storm match at All In London isn’t just about the championship; it’s the culmination of a meticulously crafted storyline that has engaged fans for months. This bout could set a new standard for women’s wrestling narratives in AEW.
What do you think about the Mariah May vs. Toni Storm storyline? Has it lived up to your expectations? Leave a comment below with your thoughts!