It looks like AEW may be inching closer to reuniting one of its most popular tag teams whether theyre ready for it or not.
On the September 13 episode of AEW Collision, Anthony Bowens and Max Caster crossed paths backstage for the first time in months. What started as a tense encounter turned into a full-blown fight that spilled into the ring, reigniting speculation that The Acclaimed could be back on track despite how far theyve drifted apart.
The situation unfolded after Caster lost yet another open challenge match, this time to Big Bill. Bowens had also lost earlier in the night to Konosuke Takeshita in a Unified Championship qualifier. When the two bumped into each other backstage, it quickly escalated into a brawl in front of the live crowd.
Veteran coach Jerry Lynn rushed out to break things up, trying to talk sense into both men. He reminded them they were better off as a unit, not enemies. Bowens wasnt hearing it and walked off until things took a turn.
Blake Christian and Lee Johnson came out of nowhere and attacked Lynn. Caster attempted to help but got overwhelmed. Just when it looked like the numbers game was too much, Bowens returned to the ring and made the save, fighting side-by-side with Caster to clear out the ring.
Lynn then raised both of their hands in what felt like a symbolic moment but neither man looked fully sold on the idea of getting the team back together. They exited separately, leaving fans wondering if this was just a one-night reunion or the start of something bigger.
AEW originally signed Caster and Bowens in 2020, pairing them as The Acclaimed. They later aligned with Billy Gunn and went on to win both the AEW World Tag Team and Trios Championships. In 2025, the team fractured, with Bowens and Gunn sticking together while Caster launched a solo open challenge series thats resulted in a string of losses.
Now, with Bowens also separated from Gunn and no clear path forward, the stage may be set for a reluctant but emotional reunion.
Is it time for The Acclaimed to get back on the same page, or should Caster and Bowens stay on separate paths? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know if youre ready to see them team up again.
Is it time for The Acclaimed to get back on the same page? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
