In a major development for All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Ace Austin officially signed with the company following a high-octane debut match against AEW star Ricochet on the August 16 episode of AEW Collision. Austin’s arrival was confirmed on air and backed up by AEW President Tony Khan backstage, marking a significant addition to AEW’s roster[1][3].
Ace Austin, formerly a standout competitor in Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA), concluded a six-year tenure there in May after his contract expired. Known for his impressive runs as TNA World Tag Team and X-Division Champion, Austin’s transition to AEW was highly anticipated by fans and insiders alike. Despite his loss to Ricochet in their Collision match—where Austin looked poised to pull out a win on multiple occasions—his dynamic performance established him immediately as a contender in AEW’s competitive landscape[1][2].
Backstage reports reveal that following the match, Tony Khan directly approached Austin to offer a contract, emphasizing AEW’s intent to make him “All Elite.” Austin responded affirmatively, expressing confidence that the timing was perfect to elevate his career to the next level with AEW. This signing concludes months of speculation as Austin was one of the most sought-after free agents, having worked the independent circuit since leaving Impact[1].
Alongside Austin’s signing, the August 16 AEW Collision edition also marked the return of Japanese stars Mina Shirakawa and Harley Cameron to AEW programming. Their reappearance is seen as part of AEW’s ongoing effort to enhance its women’s division’s international flavor and depth ahead of major upcoming events. Both Shirakawa and Cameron bring renewed energy and international experience, exciting fans eager for fresh rivalries and matchups[4].
Another highlight from Collision was the announcement of Nigel McGuinness’ in-ring return for AEW. The former ROH Pure Champion and respected wrestling analyst is set to compete again, adding to AEW’s compelling storytelling as the company ramps up for the upcoming AEW Forbidden Door pay-per-view. McGuinness recently advanced in a technical spectacle match to become the contender for IWGP World Champion Zack Sabre Jr., signaling his return to active competition after a long hiatus[4].
The August 16 show featured other key moments, including a $100,000 four-way women’s match featuring top AEW female stars Kris Statlander, Julia Hart, Anna Jay, and Penelope Ford, highlighting AEW’s commitment to growing its women’s division. The presence of top-tier talent and high-stakes matches underscores AEW’s positioning as a premier destination for wrestling excellence[4].
According to sources close to AEW and verified by Fightful and other wrestling news outlets, Ace Austin’s addition and the returns of Shirakawa and Cameron are part of AEW’s strategic push to diversify and strengthen its roster ahead of a crucial autumn season. AEW’s approach remains centered on delivering elite in-ring action while fostering new and compelling storylines across divisions[1][3].
In summary, Ace Austin has officially joined AEW, debuting in a highly competitive match against Ricochet before signing a contract with Tony Khan. Meanwhile, Mina Shirakawa and Harley Cameron have made their returns, and Nigel McGuinness is poised for an in-ring comeback, all pointing to an exciting AEW landscape as the promotion builds toward Forbidden Door and beyond.
Sources: AEW.com, Wrestling Inc., 411mania, Fightful, AEW Collision (August 16, 2025), reports from AEW insiders and backstage personnel.