Full Breakdown
AEW Dynamite Kicks Off 2026 with High-Stakes Matches
1/8/2026, 6:07:11 AM
Core Event: High-Stakes Matches in Tulsa
The first episode of AEW Dynamite in 2026 is set to take place tonight at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, featuring a lineup of intense matches and significant storylines. The event will be broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET on TBS and streamed on HBO Max.
Featured Matches and Storylines
One of the main attractions of tonight's event is a Lights Out match between Swerve Strickland and “Hangman” Adam Page against Powerhouse Hobbs and HOOK. This match is framed as a quest for payback, as Strickland and Page seek retribution for previous confrontations that have hindered their pursuit of the AEW World Championship held by MJF. The stipulation of the match allows for no disqualifications, promising a violent encounter.
In another key matchup, AEW Continental Champion Jon Moxley will face Shelton Benjamin of The Hurt Syndicate in a Continental Championship Eliminator. Moxley, who recently defended his title against Josh Alexander, will be challenged by Benjamin, who aims to earn a shot at the championship by either defeating Moxley or lasting the full 20-minute time limit.
Additionally, ROH World Champion Bandido is scheduled to compete against Sammy Guevara, one-half of the ROH World Tag Team Champions. This match serves as a precursor to Bandido's upcoming title shot against MJF at the Maximum Carnage event next week.
Additional Matches and Appearances
The card also includes a trios match featuring “Jungle” Jack Perry teaming up with JetSpeed, comprising “Speedball” Mike Bailey and “The Jet” Kevin Knight, against The Demand, which includes AEW National Champion Ricochet. This match follows a recent attack on Luchasaurus, adding further tension to the rivalry.
Toni Storm will face Marina Shafir, while the newly crowned TBS Champion Willow Nightingale will celebrate her recent victory over Mercedes Moné. Notably, Jim Ross is set to return to commentary, adding to the excitement of the evening.
Official Statements & Responses
AEW has emphasized the significance of this event as a fresh start to the new year, with multiple storylines converging. The promotion has highlighted the anticipation surrounding MJF's appearance, as he will address the challenges posed by several competitors, including former champion Kenny Omega and others vying for the AEW World Title.
Criticism & Opposition
While the event is highly anticipated, some fans have expressed concerns regarding the predictability of certain match outcomes and the ongoing dominance of established stars like MJF. Critics argue that this could stifle the development of newer talent within the promotion.
What's Next
Following tonight's event, the focus will shift to the Maximum Carnage pay-per-view, where Bandido will challenge MJF for the AEW World Championship. The outcomes of tonight's matches are expected to set the stage for further developments in these ongoing rivalries.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Violence is on the menu for these four men tonight.” — AEW Dynamite Preview
- “Jon Moxley gets no rest as the AEW Continental Champion, and we’re pretty sure he likes it that way.” — AEW Dynamite Preview
- “Tonight, Bandido will try to defeat the other half of the ROH World Tag Team Champions before the match of his life next week!” — AEW Dynamite Preview
As AEW Dynamite returns, fans can expect a night filled with action, drama, and the potential for significant shifts in the championship landscape.
