AEW News & Rumor Roundup: Unfortunate news on The Young Bucks; Ricky Starks update; Free agent shows up
This is your daily dose of Sportskeeda Wrestling's AEW News & Rumor Roundup. Today, we will delve into unfortunate news about former AEW World Tag Team Champions The Young Bucks. Furthermore, a former WWE Intercontinental Champion unexpectedly appeared on the latest edition of Rampage.
There is also a positive update on the future of Ricky Starks. So without ado, let's begin:
#3. Matt Cardona shows up on AEW Rampage
Earlier this week, former WWE star Matt Cardona appeared on Dynamite and revealed himself as reigning ROH World Champion Chris Jericho's next opponent. The match will take place at Final Battle on December 20, 2024. Interestingly, The Deathmatch King appeared on the latest edition of Rampage and confronted the 54-year-old.
The former Zack Ryder then proceeded to deliver a passionate promo in which he called himself "the King of the Indies!" In addition, the former WWE Intercontinental Champion said that he would dethrone The Learning Tree at the upcoming event in New York.
"I’m not the same kid you met 15 years ago. I’m The Indy God, the King of the Indies. I’m The Deathmatch King. I’m the king of your cruise! And if anybody is the king of New York, it’s me! I don’t care about proving anybody wrong; I care about proving myself right! And that’s going to be exactly what happens when I beat you for the ROH World Championship!" Cardona said. [H/T AllEliteWrestling.com]
Cardona has wrestled for AEW multiple times in the past. His last opponent in the company was former TNT Champion Adam Copeland.
#2. Ricky Starks set to make his HOG debut in January
Former FTW Champion Ricky Starks hasn't appeared on AEW TV since March 2024. The reason behind this is unknown. Interestingly, Stroke Daddy is rumored to join WWE after his contract with the Jacksonville-based promotion ends.
Meanwhile, The Absolute Star is set to make his House of Glory NYC debut at the Final Warning event on January 25, 2025.
The promotion's IG post read:
"BREAKING! New York City faithful, you asked, and we delivered! Saturday, January 25th, 'Absolute' Ricky Starks makes his NYC HOG debut at #FinalWarning! Tickets Available NOW in story/bio!"
#1. The Young Bucks vs. United Empire at Wrestle Dynasty has been canceled
Nicholas and Matthew Jackson were set to face United Empire's Great-O-Khan and HENARE for the IWGP Tag Team Championship at the upcoming Wrestle Dynasty pay-per-view. Unfortunately, this match has been canceled. HENARE recently got injured and won't be able to compete in the foreseeable future.
United Empire has also reportedly relinquished the IWGP Tag Team Championship. It remains to be seen who will face The Young Bucks at Wrestle Dynasty 2025. Notably, The Jackson Brothers are former IWGP Tag Team Champions. They have also won the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Title a staggering seven times.