AEW Roster Update: All Elite Wrestling (AEW) continues to showcase one of the most talented and diverse rosters in professional wrestling. However, with a limited number of weekly programming hours and a string of injuries plaguing key performers, several wrestlers have remained off television for extended periods. The latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter sheds light on the status of some of these absent AEW stars.
AEW Roster Update
Juice Robinson Nears In-Ring Comeback After Lengthy Injury Layoff
Among those close to returning is Juice Robinson. Known for his gritty style and explosive in-ring presence, Robinson has not competed since sustaining a fibula fracture during the opening match of his 2024 Continental Classic campaign. The injury, which occurred nearly seven months ago, derailed what many fans saw as a potential breakout year for the “Rock Hard” star.
According to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, Robinson is not far from a full-time return. A report back in May indicated that Robinson had already recovered significantly and was pushing hard in rehabilitation efforts to make a comeback. Despite this progress, AEW has yet to confirm an official return date.
Robinson’s absence has left a noticeable gap in AEW’s mid-card and tag team scene. His return could inject much-needed depth and allow AEW to resume several storylines that were left hanging due to his injury. Fans remain hopeful that Robinson will reappear in the coming months—possibly before the next pay-per-view cycle.
Hook’s In-Ring Hiatus Continues After Concussion
Another notable absence from AEW programming is Hook, one of the promotion’s most promising young stars. Hook last competed on the April 9 episode of “AEW Dynamite,” during which he appeared to suffer a concussion. Since then, he has not returned to in-ring action.
Although Hook made a brief cameo during the chaotic Anarchy in the Arena match at AEW’s Double or Nothing event, his role remained non-physical. Hook later confirmed that his absence stemmed from a concussion he sustained during his last match. Meltzer’s report reinforced this update, noting that Hook’s ongoing angle is currently on pause and will resume only when he receives medical clearance.
Hook’s prolonged absence is a blow to AEW’s rising talent division. Known for his calm demeanor and explosive wrestling style, Hook had been gaining momentum and establishing a strong fanbase. His eventual return will likely be met with high anticipation, and it could serve as a pivotal moment for AEW to elevate new or ongoing feuds.
Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. Still Under Contract But Not Active
While some wrestlers remain sidelined due to injury, others are simply not being utilized despite being under active contract. Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D., once a central figure in AEW’s women’s division, has not appeared on AEW television since November 2024. Despite her absence, she remains under contract with the promotion until early 2026.
Reports suggest that AEW has not sidelined Baker due to new injuries. Instead, the company appears to be holding off on her return due to creative reasons. However, given her history with injuries, her contract could potentially be extended to compensate for the missed time.
Baker, a former AEW Women’s World Champion, played a significant role in elevating the women’s division during the promotion’s early years. Her in-ring skills, charisma, and mic work made her a fan favorite and a reliable performer. Her current absence has created a noticeable void, and her return could provide a much-needed boost to the women’s roster.
Whether AEW plans to bring her back for a title run or use her in another capacity remains unclear. What is certain, however, is that Baker’s eventual return has the potential to reignite storylines and create new rivalries within the division.
Jack Perry Healthy But Left Waiting
Jack Perry, also known by his moniker “Scapegoat,” is another AEW star who has been off television since November 2024. Unlike Juice Robinson or Hook, Perry has not been sidelined due to injury. Reports confirm that he is healthy and ready to return, but AEW has yet to find a suitable creative direction for him.
Perry’s inactivity is puzzling, given his popularity and talent. A key figure during AEW’s early years and part of the Jungle Express tag team alongside Luchasaurus, Perry evolved into a compelling singles competitor. His heel turn and character reinvention as “Scapegoat” intrigued fans, but his momentum appears to have stalled due to the lack of consistent booking.
Dave Meltzer’s update implies that AEW may be holding off on Perry’s return until the creative team develops a fitting storyline. This decision has sparked some debate among fans, with many calling for Perry to be reintegrated into AEW programming—especially with ongoing roster reshuffles and emerging storylines that could use his star power.
AEW Faces Challenges Managing a Growing Roster
AEW’s situation reflects the challenges that come with managing a large and talented roster. While having depth allows for exciting matchups and long-term planning, it also means that not every star can receive consistent TV time. Injuries, creative direction, and backstage logistics all contribute to which wrestlers fans see weekly and which remain off-screen.
As AEW continues to expand its programming—between “Dynamite,” “Rampage,” “Collision,” and pay-per-views—the company faces increasing pressure to rotate its talent effectively. Stars like Robinson, Hook, Baker, and Perry could significantly contribute to storylines across all divisions if utilized properly.
What’s Next?
With Robinson reportedly close to full recovery, and Hook simply awaiting medical clearance, fans might see both men return in the near future. Meanwhile, AEW will need to address the status of Britt Baker and Jack Perry if it aims to keep fans engaged and maximize its talent potential heading into the latter half of 2025.
As always, the AEW faithful remain eager to see how Tony Khan and the creative team balance returning stars with rising talent. One thing is certain: the return of these stars could shake up the roster and alter the trajectory of AEW programming moving forward.
AEW Roster Update
