AEWs approach to storytelling is coming under fire once againthis time for abandoning emotional angles and relying too heavily on matches that lack buildup.
On the July 28, 2025 episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, longtime wrestling analyst Dave Meltzer didnt mince words about what he sees as a major flaw in the companys creative direction.
Meltzer pointed to the recent Christian Cage and Nick Wayne angle, where AEW teased a dramatic fallout only to let it fizzle out without a match or payoff. He suggested the company had no good outcome, so they simply dropped it.
Bryan Alvarez chimed in earlier, frustrated that AEW didnt even promote the match after setting it up on TV.
Beyond just one feud, Meltzer said the companys broader booking style is missing the mark. In his words, AEW puts on strong matchesbut with no story behind them, they dont matter.
He continued by warning that great matches arent enough to build a loyal weekly audience:
Meltzer wrapped up by making it clear that good wrestling alone cant carry a company anymorenot in a landscape where fans can find great in-ring action just about anywhere.
With AEW continuing to load up cards with elite matchups but often skipping the buildup, the criticism may only grow louder if those stories keep falling through the cracks.
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Do you think AEW is giving fans enough storyline payoff, or is it all sizzle and no substance? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
