Two AEW stars have left the Jacksonville-based promotion after being part of the company for over six years. The Butcher and The Blade are known as one of the most dangerous teams in the pro wrestling industry. After debuting in late 2019, they made a huge impact on the tag team division. Unfortunately, their momentum didn’t last long, as the duo was soon used as enhancement talents.
In 2024, Butcher underwent spinal fusion surgery and was absent from the ring for almost two years. His last appearance took place in January 2024. During that period, Tony Khan booked Butcher until early 2025. Despite Blade’s recovery in 2026, the tag team wasn’t booked on TV. Butcher even vented frustration on social media in February this year, where he was disappointed at not getting opportunities.
According to Fightful, Butcher and Blade’s contract has expired, and they have left All Elite Wrestling.
The Butcher discusses issues he goes through due to being off AEW TV
Many were hopeful that Blade’s recovery would finally bring the popular tag team into the tag team division mix. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case, and the team stayed on the sidelines.
While speaking on Youngstown Studio, the Butcher said he didn’t want to be a singles star whose job is to put others over. He also pointed out that not being booked is stressful.
“I’m still under contract [with AEW]. Blade is like, that was the big thing–Blade had his back fused. As a tag team wrestler, how many times can you send a guy out there in singles matches, and they lose? Do you know what I mean? You have to shove them, and I understand that and try to be humble with that. It does seep into your head like, ‘Dude, what did I do wrong?’ Because no one talks to you. It’s not like they’re checking up on me every week, like ‘How you doing, dude?’ It’s just, ‘We’ll call you when we need you.’ That is such a headf**k. At the same time, I’m so grateful because I get paid every two weeks,” he said.
It will be interesting to see what is next for the former AEW tag team.
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Edited by Tejas Pagare
