Major news was unveiled today from the championship segment of All Elite Wrestling at AEW Grand Slam 2024. HOOK not only held onto the FTW Championship against Roderick Strong in an FTW Rules faceoff, but also shared a surprising announcement to the audience post-match.
Commentator Tony Schiavone highlighted the background of the FTW title, sharing that it was established by Taz back in 1998 at the Elks Lodge, situated just three miles away from Arthur Ashe. Expressing his gratitude to Schiavone, HOOK declared that all good things must reach their conclusion. He addressed, “On behalf of my family, I’d like to thank each wrestler out there who’s ever vied for this title. And moreover, I’d like to thank you, the fans, for your unwavering support for the FTW Championship. I declare at this precise moment, the FTW Championship is officially retired.”
Upon this announcement, HOOK handed over the championship belt to his father, culminating in an affectionate hug.
“All good things must come to an end” – HOOK
Join us for #AEWDynamite Grand Slam LIVE on TBS! @730HOOK | @tonyschiavone24 | @OfficialTAZ
– All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) September 26, 2024
Other interesting highlights from the event included Strong exchanging handshakes with HOOK following the match, with Matt Taven and Mike Bennett doing likewise. Could this gesture indicate a potential shift in persona from The Undisputed Kingdom, or merely a display of respect in anticipation of the imminent announcement?
The potential implications of this event are yet to be discerned, along with AEW’s course of action sans the FTW title in the future. Will they introduce a new championship to replace the retired one, or is it simply an opportunity to phase out this unofficial title?
Your perspectives and impressions are welcome in the comment section below!