The wrestling world has been abuzz recently with talks about WWE and TNA Wrestling’s crossover. However, this week’s NXT episode also stirred up some discussion about AEW, specifically a new insider report regarding an individual backstage during the show.
The on-screen narrative itself (refer to the NXT results here) included a backstage segment featuring Cody Rhodes and Shawn Spears. Spears shared his ambition to imitate The American Nightmare’s success — winning the Royal Rumble and becoming a champion — by emerging victorious in the upcoming 25-man brawl. Ethan Page chimed in, reproaching Cody for not wishing him good luck as well, while Lexis King boasted about being the real upcoming winner. Cody’s retort was a succinct “It seems like you guys are in a good place” before exiting the scene.
However, that’s not the only tale that was woven that night.
As stated by Fightful Select, Rebel from All Elite Wrestling was spotted backstage at the TV recordings, but what she was doing there and her reasons for attending are still shrouded in mystery. Word on the grapevine is that she’s “personally connected” to an employee at the NXT brand.
It’s worth noting that Rebel’s name is still showcased on AEW’s roster page, which only lately saw the removal of Arn Anderson, Jake Hager, Mark Henry, and Paige VanZant. Having been largely absent from the screen since 2022, Rebel maintains a career record of a solitary 1-10 victory, largely performing as a manager and escort for Dr. Britt Baker to the ring. Initially hired in a backstage role for cosmetology, where she oversaw the hair and makeup for the women’s division, it’s unclear whether she currently fulfills the same duties or if her role has since varied.
Is this an indication that Rebel may soon be parting ways with AEW? Or could it simply be a case of friendly visits, with no further implications? As always, stay on your guard, and keep checking back for fresh updates as they arrive.