The Unlikely Alliance: How Adam Copeland and Christian Cage Could Reshape AEW’s Tag Team Landscape
For wrestling fans, the image of Adam “Edge” Copeland and Christian Cage standing side-by-side again after 14 years evokes a powerful nostalgia. But this isn’t just a sentimental reunion; it’s a strategic move by AEW that could dramatically alter the dynamics of its tag team division – and potentially signal a broader shift towards capitalizing on established star power. Their upcoming match against ROH World Television Champion Nick Wayne and Kip Sabian at Forbidden Door isn’t merely a bout; it’s a test of a fragile alliance and a potential launching pad for a compelling storyline.
A History of Brotherhood, and Betrayal
Copeland and Cage’s history is deeply intertwined, from their days as brothers in the WWE to their eventual split. Their last official tag team outing saw them defeat Alberto Del Rio and Brodus Clay, a victory now distant in memory. The recent events on AEW Dynamite, culminating in a hesitant embrace after Copeland’s disqualification win over Big Stoke and a defense against FTR, highlight the complex emotions at play. The tension is palpable, fueled by Cage’s increasingly unpredictable behavior and Copeland’s justifiable skepticism. This isn’t a seamless partnership; it’s a calculated risk.
Forbidden Door: More Than Just a Match
The Forbidden Door pay-per-view provides a unique platform for this reunion. Facing Wayne and Sabian, a formidable pairing representing Ring of Honor, allows AEW to showcase this veteran team against rising stars. However, the real story isn’t necessarily about winning or losing; it’s about whether Copeland and Cage can coexist. The dynamic displayed on Dynamite – Copeland cautiously accepting Cage’s “Spike” as a symbol of trust, only to watch Cage quickly retreat – suggests a power imbalance and a lingering distrust. This internal conflict is precisely what makes the match so intriguing.
The Impact of Cage’s Evolution
Christian Cage’s character arc has been one of the most compelling in AEW. His transformation into a calculating, often ruthless competitor has been a masterclass in heel work. This evolution directly impacts the Copeland dynamic. Copeland, known for his unwavering integrity, is forced to grapple with a former friend who has embraced a darker path. This creates a natural narrative tension that AEW can exploit for months to come. The question isn’t just whether they can win at Forbidden Door, but whether Copeland can stomach being associated with Cage’s methods.
Beyond the Ring: The Broader Implications for AEW
This storyline arrives at a crucial juncture for AEW. While the company has consistently delivered high-quality wrestling, it has sometimes struggled to build long-term, emotionally resonant narratives. Leveraging the pre-existing history and established fanbase surrounding Copeland and Cage offers a shortcut to that emotional investment. It’s a smart move, particularly as AEW navigates a competitive landscape and seeks to solidify its position as a premier wrestling promotion. The success of this alliance could pave the way for similar pairings, capitalizing on veteran star power to elevate younger talent.
Furthermore, the inclusion of ROH World Television Champion Nick Wayne adds another layer of intrigue. Wayne’s presence elevates the stakes and provides a clear path for a potential feud beyond Forbidden Door. A loss for Wayne and Sabian could easily be spun into a storyline where Wayne seeks to prove himself against Copeland, further solidifying his position as a rising star.
The current AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door lineup is stacked, featuring high-profile championship matches like Okada vs. Strickland and Page vs. MJF, but the Copeland/Cage match stands out for its narrative potential. It’s a reminder that compelling wrestling isn’t just about athletic prowess; it’s about storytelling.
What are your predictions for Adam Copeland and Christian Cage’s performance at Forbidden Door? Will their alliance hold, or will old wounds reopen? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
