In a shocking twist that has everyone from armchair bookers to Twitter superfans abuzz, AEW’s former World Tag Team Champions, The Young Bucks, are taking a break. But, like a true wrestling swerve, it seems more like a “see ya later” than a “sayonara.” After gracefully handing over the belts to Private Party—capping it all off with a respectful handshake—the Bucks made their dramatic departure, shredding contracts like they were backstage at an Office Depot.
The recent scoop from PWInsider’s Mike Johnson has quelled some speculation, revealing that the Bucks are merely on a storyline pause. “No, they’re not done with AEW. They signed a new deal earlier this year,” Johnson clarified. That deal limits their AEW appearances and reportedly requires a Tony Khan-approved permission slip for any extra ones. This makes the Bucks’ retreat sound less like a dramatic goodbye and more like a well-timed holiday with enough plot hooks to fuel endless fan theories.
The Bucks are now set to appear at New Japan’s Wrestle Dynasty in Tokyo on January 5, where they could face Hiroshi Tanahashi and possibly their estranged BFF Kenny Omega. If all goes as anticipated, the Tokyo Dome could host a “will-they-or-won’t-they” reunion fit for soap opera royalty.
With NJPW, CMLL, ROH, and AEW talents lined up for the Tokyo Dome event, January 5 may feel like a crossover episode where the Bucks throw their superkicks into a cultural blend only pro wrestling could conjure.