Full Breakdown
AEW Introduces National Championship Amid Controversy
11/6/2025, 10:27:22 PM
Announcement of the AEW National Championship
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is set to crown its first-ever National Champion in a Casino Gauntlet match at the Full Gear pay-per-view on November 22, 2025, in Newark, New Jersey. AEW President Tony Khan announced the title's introduction during a live stream with commentator Tony Schiavone, emphasizing its historical significance tied to the National Championship previously defended in Georgia Championship Wrestling and Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling. The original title was unified with the United States Championship in 1986, and this marks the first time a National Champion will be crowned in nearly 40 years.
Format and Participants of the Casino Gauntlet Match
The Casino Gauntlet match will feature multiple participants entering the ring at timed intervals, creating an unpredictable and dynamic competition. Initial entrants announced include Bobby Lashley, Shelton Benjamin, and Ricochet, with more competitors expected to join as the event approaches. Khan expressed his excitement about the title being defended not only in AEW but also across other promotions, including New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) Strong and Ring of Honor (ROH).
Controversy and Criticism from NWA
The announcement has sparked significant controversy, particularly from the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). NWA promoter Bryan Idol accused Khan of using the National Championship name as a retaliatory measure against the NWA following a legal dispute. Idol claimed that AEW's move is an attempt to co-opt the legacy of the NWA, stating, “This is the lamest thing in the history of wrestling.” He further criticized Khan's approach to wrestling, suggesting that AEW is trying to "buy" legitimacy rather than earn it.
NWA National Champion Mike Mondo also weighed in, asserting that there is only one legitimate National Championship, which belongs to the NWA. He emphasized the title's lineage and its significance within wrestling history, stating, “Let me be CLEAR. There is only ONE NWA & there is only one PRESTIGIOUS National Championship that holds legit lineage.”
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the backlash, AEW has not issued a formal statement addressing the criticisms from the NWA. However, Khan has reiterated his long-standing desire to revive the National Championship, highlighting its historical importance and the opportunity it presents for wrestlers across various promotions to compete for a prestigious title.
Implications for AEW's Championship Landscape
The introduction of the AEW National Championship adds to an already extensive title roster within the promotion, which now includes 11 championships. Critics argue that the proliferation of titles may dilute their significance, making it challenging for champions to stand out. Despite this, Khan remains optimistic about the title's role in elevating talent and creating memorable moments in professional wrestling.
As AEW prepares for Full Gear, the wrestling community is closely monitoring the developments surrounding the National Championship and the ongoing tensions with the NWA. The outcome of the Casino Gauntlet match could have lasting implications for both AEW and the legacy of the National Championship in wrestling history.
