The wrestling world got a harsh reminder of how quickly things can change when LWO’s Joaquin Wilde suffered a concussion during what should have been a routine WWE Speed taping. The injury occurred during his bout against Lexis King, immediately casting doubt over his availability for this weekend’s major Worlds Collide event.
Medical Concerns Force Last-Minute Card Changes
Wrestling fans know that head injuries are nothing to mess around with, and WWE is taking no chances with Wilde’s health. According to PWInsider Elite, the talented high-flyer has been pulled from his scheduled six-man tag team match at Worlds Collide.
The original plan called for Wilde to team with Dragon Lee and Cruz Del Toro against the lucha libre trio of Octagón Jr., Mr. Iguana, and Aero Star. Now, fans will witness a different dynamic as a familiar face steps into the void.
Former Lucha House Party Star Gets Surprise Opportunity
Enter Lince Dorado, the high-flying veteran who’s getting an unexpected chance to shine on WWE programming once again. The Puerto Rican superstar spent five solid years with WWE from 2016 to 2021, becoming a fan favorite on shows like NXT and 205 Live.
Since his release three years ago, Dorado has kept busy across the wrestling landscape. He’s made appearances in both AEW and TNA while maintaining a strong presence on the independent circuit. His versatility and experience make him the perfect emergency replacement for this high-stakes lucha showcase.
A Homecoming Three Years in the Making
This Worlds Collide appearance marks a significant milestone for Dorado – his first match on WWE television since departing the company in 2021. While he’s been working dark matches and NXT live events since returning earlier this year, Saturday’s bout represents his official comeback to the spotlight.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect, as Dorado’s lucha libre background and WWE experience make him an ideal fit for this international showcase.
Ripple Effects Hit WWE Speed Programming
Wilde’s injury has created a domino effect beyond just Worlds Collide. His scheduled WWE Speed match against Lexis King appears to have been scrapped entirely, with King instead facing Noam Dar in a recently taped bout at the WWE Performance Center.
This change highlights how one injury can reshape multiple storylines and programming decisions across WWE’s expanding content slate.
AAA Purchase Creates New Opportunities
The bigger picture reveals WWE’s ambitious expansion into lucha libre territory through their AAA acquisition, announced during WrestleMania 41 weekend in April. This purchase has opened doors for veterans like Dorado, Savio Vega, and “Moody” Jack Melendez to find new roles within WWE’s growing empire.
El Hijo Del Vikingo’s AAA Mega Championship victory already demonstrates WWE’s commitment to elevating the promotion’s profile. Vega’s previous appearance at 2023’s Backlash in Puerto Rico, where he helped Bad Bunny secure victory in a Street Fight, showed how these connections can create memorable moments.
Looking Ahead to Worlds Collide
While Wilde’s absence is unfortunate, his replacement brings its own intrigue to Saturday’s card. Dorado’s return adds an extra layer of storytelling to what was already shaping up as an exciting international clash.
The six-man tag now becomes a proving ground for Dorado’s WWE comeback while maintaining the lucha libre authenticity that makes these cross-promotional matches special. Will this opportunity lead to a permanent return for the former Lucha House Party member, or is this just a one-night showcase of what wrestling fans have been missing?
