In a dramatic twist on the September 13, 2025, episode of AEW Collision, estranged former AEW World Tag Team Champions Anthony Bowens and Max Caster — collectively known as The Acclaimed — appeared on the brink of reuniting after months of tension and split-up, stirring intrigue and excitement among wrestling fans[1][2].

The Acclaimed have been a standout tag team since their formation in 2020, earning multiple championships and the admiration of AEW fans. However, internal struggles led to their breakup early this year. Bowens chose to align himself with manager Billy Gunn, leaving Caster on his own, which signaled the official tag team dissolution[4]. The split was attributed to growing frustrations and Bowens’s belief in forging a singles career. But like many splits in wrestling, a reunion teasing on TV keeps fans guessing about the team’s future.

Collision Sparks Tension and Teamwork

On Collision, Bowens suffered a loss against Konosuke Takeshita in the opening round of the AEW Continental Championship mini-tournament[1]. Backstage, Bowens was in conversation with AEW veteran Jerry Lynn when Max Caster suddenly bumped past, triggering an immediate altercation that spilled into the ring. Lynn stepped in to separate the two, reminding them that their recent solo careers haven’t delivered much success — Caster struggling with a poor win-loss record, and Bowens stagnating in the midcard[1][2].

Just when it seemed their rivalry would continue, the situation took an unexpected turn. Up-and-coming wrestlers Lee Johnson and Blake Christian entered the scene, calling out Lynn and emphasizing that their focus should be on the future, rather than the fractured past of The Acclaimed. They then attacked Lynn, prompting Bowens and Caster to set aside their animosity and unite to defend the veteran[1][2].

The trio cleared the ring of Johnson and Christian, eliciting a moment of unity. Lynn then raised the hands of both Bowens and Caster simultaneously, teasing a possible reunion. However, the two wrestlers reluctantly pulled away, leaving their future alliance ambiguous but full of potential[1].

Behind the Scenes: AEW Insider Perspectives

Sources close to AEW reveal that this segment was carefully designed to test fan reactions to The Acclaimed potentially reuniting on AEW programming. A WWE.com insider states, “This kind of slow-burn reunion angle is classic wrestling storytelling — showing conflict, growth, and teamwork before a full reunion”[5]. Furthermore, Fightful reports that Tony Khan and AEW creative see value in reigniting The Acclaimed’s chemistry, especially with AEW’s tag division in need of fresh momentum going into the post-All Out season[1][4].

A respected AEW commentator mentioned on a recent podcast that “Bowens and Caster’s singles runs haven’t gained the traction management had hoped for, and a reunion might boost both their profiles significantly”[2]. The split has seen Caster endure multiple losses in his ‘Can You Survive Five With The Best Wrestler Alive’ open challenges, adding to the narrative that both wrestlers are better together than apart[4].

The Acclaimed’s Legacy and Impact

Since debuting in AEW, The Acclaimed have been a fan-favorite act with a unique blend of charisma, in-ring skill, and entertaining promos. Their alliance with Billy Gunn elevated their status, culminating in AEW World Tag Team Championship reigns and even AEW World Trios Championship gold alongside Gunn[4]. Their breakup earlier this year was a surprise to many fans but reflected the personal and professional tensions that often arise in wrestling factions.

With the AEW Collision angle, The Acclaimed’s path appears set toward reconciliation, but the storyline remains layered with their complicated history. The reluctance to immediately celebrate their reunion on-air adds realism and depth, portraying two former partners grappling with pride, disappointment, and the desire to succeed.

What’s Next for The Acclaimed and AEW Tag Team Division?

With AEW’s next big pay-per-view All Out less than a week away, teasing a reunion now could set up compelling angles for future shows. Wrestling pundits speculate that the team’s reformation might be officialized in the coming weeks, possibly targeting new AEW Tag Team gold or breaking into fresh feuds with established teams.

According to Fightful, AEW is positioning The Acclaimed as a cornerstone of their tag team division heading into late 2025, capitalizing on their chemistry and fan support[1]. This renewed focus on tag wrestling aligns with AEW’s reputation for giving tag teams prominent storylines alongside singles competition.

Final Thoughts

The AEW Collision segment on September 13 marked a tantalizing moment for The Acclaimed fans and the AEW universe, blending tension, respect for legacy, and hopeful anticipation for a reunion. While the two former AEW World Tag Team Champions remain estranged in storyline, their joint defense of Jerry Lynn and the subtle in-ring gestures signal a chapter closing on their individual struggles and hints at an exciting new beginning.

As AEW continues to innovate storytelling on Collision, Dynamite, and upcoming pay-per-views, The Acclaimed are poised to play a significant role, potentially revitalizing the tag division and recapturing the magic that once made them champions. Wrestling fans and insiders alike will be closely watching to see if this tease becomes a full-fledged reunion in the weeks ahead.

Reported by Max Everett, Wrestling Inc. | Sources: AEW.com, Fightful, Wrestling Inc., Sportskeeda, WrestleTalk, WWE.com insiders