The ROH Revival: AEW’s Talent Pool and the Future of Cross-Promotional Wrestling
Nearly 40% of wrestling fans actively follow multiple promotions, a figure that’s steadily climbing as the lines between companies blur. This trend is vividly illustrated by AEW’s recent tapings for Ring of Honor (ROH) television, held at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida, which showcased a significant influx of talent with prior ties to WWE and NXT. This isn’t just about giving wrestlers a platform; it’s a strategic move signaling a potential reshaping of the wrestling landscape.
The NXT Diaspora: A New Life for Established Names
The Lakeland tapings featured several familiar faces from WWE’s developmental system, NXT. Ring of Honor’s resurgence under AEW ownership is clearly becoming a landing spot for performers seeking new opportunities. Sareee, competing under her original ring name after her time as Sarray in NXT, successfully defended her IWGP Women’s Championship against Alex Windsor. Also in action were former NXT talents Javier Bernal (now competing as Javi) and Isla Dawn, alongside the Grizzled Young Vets. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a deliberate strategy to inject ROH with experienced performers who may not have found their footing in larger organizations.
Why This Matters for Talent Development
The traditional wrestling pipeline often funnels talent directly from developmental systems to the main roster of a single promotion. However, this can lead to stagnation and limited creative control. ROH, under AEW, offers a different path – a chance for these wrestlers to refine their skills, build a new brand, and potentially cross over into AEW programming. This creates a more dynamic and competitive environment, benefiting both the performers and the fans. The success of Isla Dawn and Javi, now integrated into a tag team with the Grizzled Young Vets, demonstrates the potential for revitalizing careers.
Match Results and Emerging Storylines
Beyond the NXT alumni, the ROH tapings delivered a series of compelling matches. Angelico and Serpentico secured a victory over Logan Cruz and Tyson, while Shane Taylor defeated Beef in a hard-hitting contest. Yyily Kuto triumphed over Term, and Billie Starkz overcame Viva Van. Blake Christian defeated Shannon Moore, Diamante bested Aleah James, and The Von Erichs emerged victorious against Griff Garrison and Kole Carter of the Frat House. These results, courtesy of F4WOnline, paint a picture of a diverse and active roster.
The Von Erichs: Legacy and Future Potential
The Von Erichs’ win is particularly noteworthy. Leveraging wrestling’s rich history is a smart play, and the family’s legacy continues to draw attention. Their presence in ROH adds a layer of prestige and storytelling potential, appealing to both long-time fans and a new generation. Expect to see them featured prominently in future ROH storylines, potentially leading to a feud with a rising stable or a challenge for the ROH World Championship.
The Broader Implications: A Shifting Power Dynamic
AEW’s strategic use of ROH isn’t just about providing opportunities for former NXT talent. It’s about building a robust ecosystem where talent can develop, compete, and ultimately elevate the entire product. The cross-promotional aspect – utilizing performers from different backgrounds and promotions – is a key differentiator. This approach challenges the traditional, siloed model of wrestling and offers a more exciting and unpredictable experience for fans. The increased visibility for women’s wrestling, exemplified by Sareee’s title defense, is also a positive sign.
What are your predictions for the future of ROH under AEW’s guidance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
