AEW is coming off the most turbulent year of its existence in 2022. From Cody Rhodes’ departure and MJF’s walkout to CM Punk’s infamous media scrum, AEW President Tony Khan certainly had his hands full. The company’s reputation took a hit after the amount of bad publicity it encountered over the past 12 months.
Despite the rollercoaster of emotions that pro wrestling went through with All Elite Wrestling, the promotion has a chance to bounce back strongly and regain its momentum. Here are 5 bold predictions that could define AEW in 2023.
Goldberg signs with AEW:
Goldberg’s time with WWE could potentially come to an end. He is currently on a part-time contract with the company wrestling limited dates per year. His last official match came against Roman Reigns where he failed to win the Universal Championship at last year’s Elimination Chamber.
Since then, there has been no news on whether the WCW legend will extend his current deal. Perhaps he could be tempted by one last big payday in AEW? Veteran commentator Jim Ross recently opened up about the possibility of Goldberg wrestling in Tony Khan’s promotion.
Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross said:
“That’s strictly a Tony Khan question and I don’t want to pretend to think for Tony. He’s a different level than I, and he and I don’t have that relationship; we don’t talk about creative. Which is fine with me. I’m not complaining about that by the way. But I don’t see it right now. I can’t conclusively say ‘never’ or whatever ’cause I don’t know. My guess is no, but stranger things, of course, have happened,” said JR. [H/T Wrestling Inc]
Goldberg has a long history with TNT and TBS from his time in WCW, so it would be a homecoming of sorts. Seeing how well Tony Khan treats former WCW legends such as Sting and Jeff Jarrett, this signing could make AEW an even more attractive product. The ball is firmly in Goldberg’s court.
Jeff Hardy and CM Punk return to AEW:
Adam Cole’s emotional return to Dynamite a few weeks ago has given fans hope that a few more names could be on their way back to the company in the coming year.
Jeff Hardy debuted at AEW in March of 2022. However, by June, Jeff was suspended for driving under the influence. It was a disappointing turn of events for the Charismatic Enigma. Despite his troubles with the law, long-time fans still hope to see him return to AEW eventually. His popularity and connection with the audience is remarkable.
The biggest name that could feasibly return to All Elite Wrestling in 2023 is CM Punk. Talks of a contract buyout have gone silent, so it seems like both parties could very well be working toward bringing the Straightedge Superstar back.
Kenny Omega vs. CM Punk is also still a dream match that would be an instant box office draw. If The Elite can put aside their differences with the Chicago native, it could benefit the entire organization because the Second City Saint is still a big draw in ratings. Here’s hoping that Tony Khan can somehow resolve this issue and pave the way for the biggest star in his company to return.
