AEW and WWE news to watch the week of October 17
There was a lot of notable action last week in both WWE and AEW. Bray Wyatt made his big return to SmackDown, giving an emotional promo that was cut short with more mystery. Orange Cassidy finally found success in an AEW title match, defeating his rival PAC to become the AEW All-Atlantic Champion. With the week of October 17 upon us, here are three big stories to watch for the next few days.
Tuesday Night Wars
The “war” between AEW and WWE is back, even if it is just for a week. AEW Dynamite is set for Tuesday this week, thanks to being preempted from its regular time. That brings it to Tuesday when WWE NXT has enjoyed stronger ratings over the last few weeks. Both shows have packed their cards in what will be a hotly debated topic throughout the week.
AEW boasts a big title match between Jon Moxley and “Hangman” Adam Page. Plus, one can never forget about MJF waiting in the wings. NXT will feature several surprises as multiple main roster performers are set to show up on the show, including two big women’s matches for Roxanne Perez and Cora Jade. Both shows should be strong outings for the promotions, and fans can expect a good night of professional wrestling.
The Bray Wyatt Mystery Continues
Bray Wyatt talked candidly about the last few years of his life, after being released from the WWE and losing loved ones. He gave a speech that had the fans standing to support him, in a moment that looked as real as ever in professional wrestling. But it was interrupted by the figure in the black mask, speaking to the weakness that is supposedly dwelling within Bray. It seems like the direction of this angle will involve the idea that Bray is battling a demon within himself, one that is feeding on the insecurities that he has as a man. It’s an interesting launching point that should lead to some intriguing storytelling throughout the program.
WWE Crown Jewel Takes Shape
WWE Crown Jewel continues to take shape. With Roman Reigns versus Logan Paul at the top of the card, there was speculation about what would fill out the rest of the event. Looks like Brock Lesner versus Bobby Lashley is poised to be one of those matchups. Lashley is the last person not named Roman to defeat Lesnar. Brock repaid him by costing him the title on the October 10 edition of Monday Night Raw. With Lesnar advertised for this week’s show, it will be interesting to see how that match is built and whether WWE is prepared to give the Lesnar rub to another well-protected performer in Lashley.