AEW Talents Shine on WWE Raw: Chris Jericho and Buddy Matthews Take Center Stage

WWE Raw Nods to AEW Stars: Breaking Down the Cross-Promotional Buzz

The latest episode of WWE Raw stirred up some buzz by subtly acknowledging the presence of AEW stars, adding fuel to the ongoing inter-promotional chatter.

In a particularly emotional moment, Cody Rhodes dropped an AEW reference during an in-ring segment, hinting at the blurred lines between wrestling worlds.

But that wasn’t the only nod to the competition. During a segment highlighting attendees at UFC 299, eagle-eyed viewers spotted Rhea Ripley alongside Buddy Matthews, now a notable figure in AEW.

Amidst the action, commentator Pat McAfee’s quip about Ripley’s companion elicited laughter, highlighting the intrigue surrounding these cross-promotional encounters.

Even in the buildup to WrestleMania, the references persisted. A video package for the Intercontinental Championship prominently featured Chris Jericho, a familiar face in both WWE and AEW circles.

And as the stage is set for WrestleMania, it’s Sami Zayn emerging victorious in the gauntlet match, poised to challenge GUNTHER for the IC Title, showcasing the dynamic landscape of wrestling alliances.

This isn’t the first time WWE has acknowledged the broader wrestling universe. Just last week, commentary paid tribute to Sting’s retirement match at AEW Revolution, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the industry.

It’s a testament to the evolving nature of professional wrestling, where rivalries blur and alliances shift, proving that support for the sport transcends company boundaries.

As the wrestling world awaits further developments, all eyes are on the horizon, with speculations rife about the potential debut of Mercedes Mone, formerly known as Sasha Banks, at AEW Big Business. The anticipation continues to build, promising even more excitement at the crossroads of WWE and AEW.