The mystery surrounding Wardlow’s extended absence from All Elite Wrestling programming has finally been solved. The former TNT Champion hasn’t been seen in an AEW ring since his unsuccessful world title shot against Samoa Joe nearly a year ago, leaving fans wondering about the powerhouse’s status with the company.
The Injury That Started It All
Wardlow’s troubles began during the spring of 2024 when he suffered what medical professionals believed to be a labrum injury. This type of shoulder injury is particularly troublesome for wrestlers, as it affects the cartilage that stabilizes the shoulder joint during high-impact moves.
The former “War Dog” was already dealing with this setback when fate dealt him another blow. According to reports from Fightful Select, Wardlow was involved in a car accident sometime after sustaining the initial injury.
The collision didn’t just add insult to injury—it literally made his existing condition worse. The car accident reportedly aggravated the labrum problem, extending what might have been a shorter recovery period.
Hollywood Calling: Wardlow’s Television Opportunity
Fast-forward to early 2025, and Wardlow has apparently landed on his feet in the entertainment world. Sources indicate the AEW star secured what’s being described as a “very appropriate and special” role on a non-AEW television project.
This opportunity explains some of the Los Angeles-based activity surrounding Wardlow that was first reported back in March 2024. While it remains unclear whether his current TV role connects to those earlier LA projects, the timeline suggests he’s been building relationships in the entertainment industry for nearly a year.
The Business Decision Behind His Continued Absence
Here’s where the story takes an interesting turn from a business perspective. Despite receiving medical clearance from AEW officials to return to in-ring competition, Wardlow remains off television programming.
The reason? A mutual agreement between the wrestler, AEW management, and CEO Tony Khan that makes perfect sense from a booking standpoint. All parties recognized that bringing Wardlow back for a brief run, only to have him disappear again due to his outside television commitments, wouldn’t serve anyone’s interests.
This kind of long-term thinking demonstrates a mature approach to talent management that benefits both the company’s storytelling continuity and the wrestler’s career development.
Contract Status and Future Implications
Wrestling fans concerned about Wardlow’s future with AEW can breathe easier knowing his contract situation remains stable. According to the same Fightful Select report, the former champion still has a “notable amount of time” remaining on his current deal.
This extended contract timeline gives both sides flexibility to navigate his entertainment industry opportunities while maintaining his connection to AEW. It’s a win-win scenario that allows Wardlow to explore new ventures without burning bridges in professional wrestling.
Wardlow’s AEW Journey So Far
The Ohio native joined All Elite Wrestling in 2019 and quickly established himself as one of the company’s most impressive physical specimens. His three TNT Championship reigns showcased his ability to work as both a monster heel and a fan favorite.
His most recent title reign lasted 59 days before Luchasaurus ended it in June 2023. Since then, Wardlow’s last significant storyline involvement came through his association with the Undisputed Kingdom stable.
That connection led to his final televised appearance at AEW Dynasty, where he interfered in Roderick Strong’s International Championship defense against Kyle O’Reilly—a moment that now serves as his last major storyline contribution.
What’s Next for the Former TNT Champion?
Wardlow’s presence backstage at the 2025 Revolution pay-per-view in Los Angeles suggests he maintains strong relationships within AEW despite his extended absence. This kind of behind-the-scenes involvement often indicates a performer who remains invested in the company’s success.
The combination of his medical clearance, stable contract situation, and ongoing entertainment industry opportunities positions Wardlow uniquely within the wrestling landscape. He’s essentially building a diversified career portfolio while keeping his wrestling options open.
With his injury concerns apparently resolved and his television project moving forward, the question becomes: when will AEW fans see Wardlow step through the ropes again, and what new dimension will his outside entertainment experience bring to his character?
