Breakdown
- Bryan Keith’s journey to a full-time AEW contract, sparked by a conversation outside a hotel.
- AEW President Tony Khan’s spontaneous decision to feature Keith on TV upon spotting him among the extras.
- Keith’s impressive feats leading to his contracting, including facing the Blackpool Combat Club and vying for the AEW International Championship.
In the dynamic world of professional wrestling, few stories captivate fans as much as a wrestler’s breakthrough into the big leagues. Bryan Keith’s ascent to securing a full-time deal with AEW is one such tale, embellished with unexpected turns and pivotal matches that have left fans both thrilled and inspired.
The Spark
In a recent episode of “AEW Unrestricted,” Will Washington recounts a seemingly innocuous encounter that set Bryan Keith’s AEW journey into motion. “Darius Martin came to me…we were outside the hotel, and he asks, ‘What’s it going to take to get Bryan Keith in here?'” This query ignited discussions and eventually led to Keith being scheduled for an appearance in Chicago, right after the “All In” event, marking the beginning of his AEW journey.
An Unplanned Strike
Keith’s presence at the AEW arena was unbeknownst to AEW President Tony Khan initially. Khan, upon spotting Keith among the extras, was compelled to make an immediate decision. “We’ve got to get Bryan Keith on TV, I didn’t know he was going to be here,” Khan expressed, according to Washington. This spontaneity by Khan opened the door for Keith, leading him to a match against Hangman Page on his debut.
The Road to Contract
Keith’s path didn’t stop there; his performances against top-tier competitors like the Blackpool Combat Club and in matches for the AEW International Championship not only showcased his prowess but also cemented his place within AEW. His qualification for the Survival of the Fittest match for the Ring of Honor Television Championship at ROH Final Battle marked another high point in his burgeoning career.
Keith’s journey from an almost happenstance appearance to a fully-contracted AEW wrestler is a testament to the unpredictable, yet opportunity-rich landscape of professional wrestling. It speaks to the industry’s openness to talent, regardless of how they arrive on the scene, and the unscripted moments that often lead to the most compelling narratives.
What are your thoughts on Bryan Keith’s ascent in AEW? Do you see him capturing major titles in the near future? Leave your comments below.
