The wrestling world loves a good grudge match, and AEW’s Powerhouse Hobbs isn’t backing down from potential round two with the legendary Paul Wight. Their explosive encounter from late 2023 left fans wanting more, and it sounds like both men are ready to settle the score.
Hobbs Keeps His Guard Up Around the Wrestling Giant
During a recent interview with the “MuscleManMalcolm” YouTube channel, the current AEW World Trios Champion made it crystal clear that he’s expecting payback from the seven-foot legend. The tension between these two powerhouses remains thick as Texas barbecue.
“Oh yeah, it’s gotta happen [a match between him and Wight]. I know Paul pretty well, I know ain’t gonna go out like that. So, you know, I gotta always look front, back, side to side.”
Those words carry weight when you consider what went down between them. Hobbs knows he painted a target on his back, and Big Show isn’t exactly known for letting things slide.
That Unforgettable Car-Slamming Moment
November 2023’s chaotic eight-man street fight on AEW Dynamite delivered one of the year’s most jaw-dropping spots. Hobbs showcased his incredible strength by bodyslaming the 380-pound veteran directly onto a car hood. The visual was stunning, but more importantly, it established Hobbs as someone who could hang with wrestling royalty.
What makes this moment even more significant is that it marked Wight’s final AEW television match. The former WWE Champion went out on his back, doing exactly what he promised – putting over younger talent in memorable fashion.
Wight’s Reduced Schedule Tells a Story
The wrestling legend’s absence from AEW programming isn’t without reason. After undergoing major surgeries to replace both knees and hips, Wight has been selective about his appearances. His most recent wrestling action came during the Jericho Cruise, where he once again crossed paths with Hobbs in six-man tag team action.
Despite his reduced in-ring schedule, Wight returned to AEW programming in November as part of the Full Gear commentary team. This appearance confirmed he remains under contract with Tony Khan’s promotion and satisfied with his current role.
The Ticking Clock on a Hall of Fame Career
Time isn’t on Wight’s side, and he knows it. The veteran stated in November 2023 that he has roughly two years remaining as an active competitor. His mission during this twilight period focuses entirely on elevating the next generation of stars.
This timeline creates urgency around a potential Hobbs rematch. Every match matters when you’re counting down to retirement, and Wight has shown he’s committed to making each one count for the younger roster.
Why This Match Makes Perfect Sense
From a booking perspective, a proper singles encounter between these two would benefit everyone involved. Hobbs gets the rub of defeating a legitimate legend in a featured match, while Wight fulfills his goal of creating new stars. The existing storyline practically writes itself.
AEW has built its reputation on long-term storytelling, and this feud has all the ingredients for a compelling chapter. The respect between competitors, the explosive history, and the natural size matchup create instant intrigue.
Will Tony Khan pull the trigger on this dream match before Wight’s retirement clock runs out, or will Hobbs have to keep watching his back indefinitely?
