After nearly two years away from AEW television, Scorpio Sky delivered one of the most surprising comebacks in recent memory during this week’s milestone Collision 100 episode. The former TNT Champion emerged as the mystery challenger for Max Caster’s struggling open challenge series, ending a 658-day drought that had wrestling fans wondering if they’d ever see Sky compete in AEW again.
The Unexpected Answer to Caster’s Challenge
Max Caster’s “Best Wrestler Alive Open Challenge” has become a weekly showcase of his overconfidence meeting reality. The Acclaimed member has yet to secure a victory in this ongoing series, but few expected his latest opponent to carry such historical weight within the company.
When Scorpio Sky’s music hit in Ontario, California, the crowd reaction told the story of a wrestler who had been genuinely missed. Sky’s presence immediately elevated what could have been another routine squash match into something far more significant for AEW’s landscape.
A Triumphant Return With Familiar Faces
Sky didn’t return alone to the squared circle. The former SCU member was accompanied by a notable contingent that bridged different eras of AEW programming. Christopher Daniels, his longtime partner from their SCU days, provided veteran support alongside Top Flight’s rising stars.
Leila Grey, Dante Martin, and Darius Martin’s presence suggested this wasn’t just a one-off appearance. The multi-generational support system hints at potential storyline developments that could weave Sky back into AEW’s active roster in meaningful ways.
Quick Work of Max Caster
True to the pattern established in previous open challenge matches, Sky dispatched Caster with relative ease. The victory marked not just a return to form, but a statement that ring rust wasn’t a factor despite the extended absence.
Sky’s performance demonstrated the veteran instincts that made him a dual champion during AEW’s formative years. His seamless transition back into active competition suggests he’s been staying in fighting shape throughout his hiatus.
Tony Khan’s Previous Comments Come Full Circle
Sky’s return gains additional context when viewed through Tony Khan’s recent public statements. During the AEW Double or Nothing media scrum just over a month ago, the AEW President specifically addressed Sky’s absence with telling words about using him “when the time’s right.”
Those comments now appear prophetic rather than diplomatic. Khan’s timing aligns with AEW’s 100th Collision episode, suggesting this return was strategically planned rather than a spur-of-the-moment decision.
From Champion to Mystery: Sky’s AEW Journey
Sky’s absence stretches back to September 2023 for AEW television, with his last company appearance occurring during an ROH taping in October 2023. This extended hiatus came after a period where Sky held both TNT Championship and World Tag Team Championship gold.
His dual championship success positioned him as a cornerstone talent during AEW’s early expansion phase. The lengthy absence raised questions about his future with the promotion, making this return all the more impactful for longtime viewers.
What’s Next for the Returning Champion?
Sky’s comeback opens numerous possibilities for AEW’s creative direction. His connection with Christopher Daniels and Top Flight suggests potential faction developments or mentorship angles that could benefit multiple wrestlers simultaneously.
The timing of his return during Collision’s milestone episode indicates AEW views Sky as a significant enough talent to anchor major moments. Whether this leads to immediate championship pursuits or longer-term storytelling remains the key question moving forward.
Scorpio Sky’s return reminds us why patience in professional wrestling often pays dividends for both promotions and talent. After 658 days away, his impact was immediate and his future possibilities seem limitless. Will Sky’s comeback lead to another championship run, or does Tony Khan have bigger plans brewing for the returning star?
