John Cena to wrestle outside WWE for one reason; huge star quits? 5 Bold Predictions for AEW in 2025

2025 was one of the best years for AEW. Almost all their pay-per-views have delivered, and Tony Khan's booking has received praise from fans and veterans worldwide. The company's next pay-per-view is Revolution 2026, which will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

2026 has the potential to be an even better year for the Jacksonville-based company. There could be shocking debuts and unexpected title changes. Tony Khan must keep the momentum going and continue giving rival promotion, WWE, a run for their money.

Here are 5 Bold Predictions for AEW in 2025.

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#5. Mercedes Mone goes on a hiatus

Mercedes Mone had a historic 2025. She is the current and longest reigning TBS Champion of all time. She additionally holds several titles across various promotions worldwide. The CEO has hardly taken any breaks, but it may be time for her to go on a much-needed vacation.

The former Sasha Banks might lose all her titles in the next few weeks and go on hiatus. She could return as a babyface in a few months and then challenge for the AEW Women's World Championship.

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#4. Adam Copeland retires

Adam Copeland has been wrestling since the early 1990s. The Rated R Superstar is currently 52-years-old, and his retirement is inevitable. 2026 might be the year he hangs up his boots.

In a recent interview with First Up with Korolnek & Colaiacovo, he revealed that he will say goodbye to in-ring competition when he is 53.

"So, I realize now I'm 51 years old. I figure I got 'til maybe 53, the end of this contract and then I think it's probably time to call it a day and just get out while I can still limp away and then lick my wounds and do a whole lot of yoga after," he said. [H/T: Wresting Inc]

The former Edge will turn 53 in October 2026. His potential retirement ceremony will certainly be heartbreaking.

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#3. Jon Moxley will be replaced in the Death Riders

Jon Moxley recently became the new AEW Continental Champion by defeating Kazuchika Okada at World End. After this victory, he seemingly turned babyface by delivering a promo praising All Elite Wrestling, its wrestlers, and its fans.

The former world champion might leave the Death Riders in 2026. If this happens, the heel faction will require a worthy replacement. Multiple names in the roster can become the new leader of this group.

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#2. Chris Jericho will stay

Chris Jericho is reportedly done with AEW and is going back to WWE. However, he and Tony Khan could shock the world. Y2J might sign a new contract and stay in the Jacksonville-based company.

If this happens, the former WWE star might challenge for the AEW World Title again. He might have a final run with the title and eventually hang up his boots on a high note.

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#1. John Cena to make his AEW debut

John Cena arguably had a terrible retirement tour in WWE. Fans are unhappy with the way Triple H booked him and strongly believe that he needs a better retirement run. Tony Khan can definitely help the Cenation Leader with this.

Cena might sign with All Elite Wrestling in 2026. Although this is highly unlikely, stranger things have happened in the world of professional wrestling. Only time will tell what the future holds for the legend.

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Edited by Debangshu Nath