AEW News Roundup: Major name returns after over 18 months, Ricochet rules out reunion, new Death Riders' member teased

Welcome to the latest edition of Sportskeeda Wrestling's AEW Roundup. Today we've got news involving top stars like Ricochet and the Death Riders.

A top star has finally made his long-anticipated return to the Jacksonville-based promotion, and meanwhile, a major faction has seemingly disbanded. Tony Khan's promotion continues to deliver headlines that have fans buzzing. So, without further ado, let’s break down all the top stories from All Elite Wrestling.

#4 Kenny Omega's long-time partner finally shows up in AEW

The June 21 edition of AEW Collision witnessed a surprise return that got the fans talking. Kota Ibushi, former IWGP Heavyweight Champion and long-time tag team partner of Kenny Omega, made his AEW return after a 19-month absence. His last appearance for the promotion came during the Golden Elite storyline in late 2023. Ibushi returned as Don Callis was in the ring with members of his faction, Kazuchika Okada, Lance Archer, and Josh Alexander, gloating about Omega having no allies left.

Mark Briscoe interrupted Callis and brought out Ibushi. The Golden Star immediately entered the ring and launched an attack on Archer and Alexander before locking eyes with Okada. A brief but intense brawl ensued between Ibushi and the Continental Champion, with Ibushi standing tall. The segment signals a possible reunion of the Golden Lovers and could have major implications heading into All In: Texas.

#3 Kris Statlander refuses to join the Death Riders

Kris Statlander continues to distance herself from AEW’s top heel faction, the Death Riders. On the latest Collision, Statlander once again turned down an invitation from Wheeler Yuta to join the Jon Moxley-led group. The storyline dates back to Statlander's unexpected win over Willow Nightingale, one that was indirectly aided by the Death Riders. While Statlander has attempted to mend fences with Nightingale, the tension remains.

This week on Collision, Yuta interrupted Statlander's promo and extended the invitation again, which she firmly rejected. She even shoved him before walking away, only to be confronted by Moxley backstage. Moxley didn’t push her to join but offered advice. The moment left the door slightly open for a possible turn, adding intrigue to Statlander’s next move.

#2 Ricochet says major reunion in WWE is not happening

After WWE star John Cena surprisingly name-dropped AEW’s Claudio Castagnoli during a promo on SmackDown, speculation kicked off about the Swiss star's potential return to WWE. Cena also listed two other former WWE talents, Nic Nemeth and Matt Cardona. Xavier Woods took to X/Twitter to react, asking if Claudio might actually return to WWE.

The One and Only made it clear that Claudio is not going anywhere. The exchange ended with Woods playfully asking Ricochet why he was bald.

#1 The Elite has seemingly disbanded

The Elite appears to be disbanded following the latest developments on AEW Collision. Kazuchika Okada, who had aligned himself with The Elite since his official AEW debut, was introduced as the newest member of the Don Callis Family. This effectively ends his run with The Elite, a faction that previously included The Young Bucks and Jack Perry.

Okada’s shift comes weeks after attacking Kenny Omega at the All In: Texas contract signing, further intensifying their ongoing rivalry. His inclusion in Don Callis’ camp now sees him aligned with names like Lance Archer and Josh Alexander. Meanwhile, the Young Bucks have been seeking association with the Death Riders after helping Moxley win at Grand Slam Mexico. These moves suggest The Elite, at least in its most recent iteration, could be over.

About the author

Karan Raj is a senior writer in Sportskeeda's AEW division. He holds an engineering degree from Manipal University, but his passion for sports motivated him to pursue an MSc in Sports Business from the University of Liverpool. Karan has been in the sports marketing industry for the past seven years.

As a lifelong WWE fan and enthusiast of wrestling entertainment, he has always been drawn to the industry's unique blend of sports and storytelling. Karan was introduced to the business by his elder sister when he was 10 years old.

Before assuming his current role at Sportskeeda, Karan worked for several reputable organizations, such as Ting Works LLP and Sportz Interactive, wearing different hats. He also wrote the anthem of UP Rudras, a hockey team that played in the Hockey India League. Karan conducts thorough research while writing articles and only relies on credible sources for information.

Karan's favorite pro wrestler is Seth Rollins. He admires The Visionary's versatility as a performer and his ability to play both heel and babyface characters to perfection. Besides Rollins, Karan looks up to Roman Reigns for his storytelling skills and ability to captivate audiences.

In AEW, he enjoys watching Will Ospreay compete inside the ring. Karan loves The Aerial Assassin's technical in-ring ability and athleticism. If Karan could go back to the Attitude Era, he would combine forces with Jericho and promise to elevate his career to the same level as The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin.When not writing about pro wrestling, Karan loves to play and watch football. It is a huge part of his life.

He is also a massive fan of tennis and is learning to play the sport. Apart from sports, he also knows how to play the ukulele.

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