In a thrilling moment for British wrestling fans and followers of women’s pro wrestling, former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Isla Dawn made her highly anticipated All Elite Wrestling (AEW) debut on August 20, 2025, during the taping of AEW Collision in Glasgow, Scotland—her hometown. This marked Dawn’s first AEW appearance following her February release from WWE earlier this year, sparking excitement both live and online as she returned to the UK wrestling scene under a new banner.

According to eyewitnesses at the AEW Collision taping and reports from wrestling news outlets such as Wrestling Inc. and TJR Wrestling, Isla Dawn walked into the AEW arena to a warm reception from the Scottish crowd, signaling an emphatic homecoming. In her debut match, Dawn went up against Megan Bayne and, despite a hard-fought effort, suffered a loss. However, the positive crowd reaction and immediate spotlight on her arrival underscored AEW’s intention to build her in their women’s division[1][5].

From WWE Standout to AEW’s Rising Star

Isla Dawn’s journey in WWE began in November 2017 when she joined and competed in that year’s Mae Young Classic. Following the closure of WWE’s NXT UK brand, she transitioned to the NXT roster, where she formed a tag team known as The Unholy Union alongside Alba Fyre. The duo captured the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships at Stand & Deliver 2023 and continued their momentum by winning the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships on home turf in Scotland at Clash at the Castle in June 2024—a memorable victory over top-tier opponents Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair[1].

Despite her successes, Dawn was part of the WWE’s February 2025 roster cuts alongside other notable names like Sonya Deville and Cedric Alexander. Following her release, Dawn observed the standard 90-day WWE non-compete clause before actively pursuing opportunities elsewhere in the wrestling world.

AEW Contract and Future Prospects

Rumors about Dawn’s AEW signing had circulated since July 2025, fueling speculation about her next move. Gerweck.net and other outlets confirmed that Dawn had officially signed a contract with AEW and could appear as soon as AEW Dynamite episodes leading up to Collision[2]. This Glasgow debut on AEW Collision confirms those reports, representing the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Scottish star within AEW’s expanding women’s roster.

Sources close to the AEW locker room cited by Wrestling News revealed that Dawn’s signing aligns with AEW’s broader strategy to bolster its international talent, particularly in Europe, and enhance its female wrestling division with proven performers who can bring both in-ring skill and audience connection. “Isla is a powerful addition to AEW,” one insider noted. “Her experience and hometown appeal give us lots of creative opportunities moving forward.”

The Significance of Isla Dawn’s Hometown Debut

Isla Dawn’s appearance in Glasgow is significant beyond the personal as it taps into AEW’s expanding global reach. AEW Collision’s production in Scotland, paired with Dawn’s homecoming debut, offers a compelling storyline and natural fan engagement. This approach highlights AEW’s commitment to delivering authentic connections and showcasing diverse talent from across the world. For Scottish wrestling fans, seeing one of their own competing on a top American wrestling promotion stage at home is a milestone moment.

Industry insiders and podcast commentators have noted that AEW acquiring Isla Dawn not only strengthens their women’s division depth but also signals AEW’s competitive positioning against WWE by recruiting marquee names from its former roster. Fightful and Wrestling Observer updates emphasize AEW’s ongoing efforts to create vibrant storylines that integrate international stars like Dawn seamlessly into their product.

What’s Next for Isla Dawn in AEW?

While AEW Collision airing on August 23 will officially broadcast Isla Dawn’s debut match, AEW fans and analysts are eager to see how quickly Dawn climbs the ranks in AEW. Given her championship pedigree and unique persona—often described as mysteriously captivating with a darker edge—Dawn is expected to be featured in high-profile storylines and rivalries soon.

Current AEW women’s division stars like Jamie Hayter, Toni Storm, and Dr. Britt Baker might see fresh and intriguing matchups with Dawn, creating dynamic possibilities. Additionally, Dawn’s connection with the UK wrestling scene could lead AEW to schedule more international shows or UK-based story arcs involving her character.

Summary

• Isla Dawn made her AEW debut on August 20, 2025, at AEW Collision tapings in Glasgow, Scotland, facing Megan Bayne[1].
• Former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Isla Dawn was released in February 2025 and joined AEW following her non-compete period[1][2].
• Dawn’s tag team accomplishments included winning NXT Women’s Tag Titles and WWE Women’s Tag Titles alongside Alba Fyre[1].
• AEW insiders confirm her signing and plan to leverage her hometown connection and international appeal in future storylines[1][2].
• Her debut aligns with AEW’s strategy to expand internationally and deepen its women’s roster[2][5].

As Isla Dawn embarks on this new journey with AEW, the wrestling world will be watching closely to witness how this talented Scottish star reinvents herself and competes on one of wrestling’s biggest platforms.

Sources: Wrestling Inc., Gerweck.net, Wrestling News, TJR Wrestling, Fightful.com