In a shocking turn of events, Adam Copeland, famously known as Edge, has made his long-awaited debut in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). This move has left the wrestling world buzzing with speculation and excitement. But why did the Rated-R Superstar bid farewell to WWE, where he had spent a quarter-century of his life, to embark on a new journey with AEW? Let’s delve into the five possible reasons behind Edge’s game-changing decision.
Perfect Sendoff Against Sheamus in WWE
Edge’s WWE career is nothing short of legendary. From his beginnings in the Attitude Era to becoming a main-event staple at WrestleMania, he accomplished it all. His list of achievements includes multiple championship reigns, Money in the Bank victories, and Royal Rumble wins.
His farewell match against Sheamus on the August 18 episode of SmackDown was a fitting end to his WWE chapter. It was an emotional moment for Edge and his fans, culminating his 25-year journey in his home country of Canada. This farewell may have given him the closure he needed to move on.
Feuded with Top Stars
Throughout his WWE career, Edge faced and conquered some of the biggest names in the business. His partnership with Christian, the legendary tag team trinity with the Hardy Boyz and The Dudleys, and membership in the iconic SmackDown 6 are just a few highlights. Edge’s list of opponents reads like a who’s who of WWE, including John Cena, The Undertaker, Batista, Randy Orton, and Mick Foley.
Edge had achieved everything there was to achieve in WWE, and his hunger for new challenges might have driven him toward AEW.
Hall of Fame Induction
Edge was forced to retire in 2011 due to a series of nagging injuries. WWE honored his contributions by inducting him into the Hall of Fame, alongside legends like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Mick Foley, and Ric Flair. After nine long years, Edge made a stunning comeback at the 2020 Royal Rumble, setting the stage for epic feuds with current WWE stars like Seth Rollins, Finn Balor, AJ Styles, and Damian Priest.
His return was a testament to his resilience and love for wrestling, but perhaps he felt that there was still more to achieve outside the confines of WWE.
The Money Was Right in AEW
Money often plays a pivotal role in career decisions, and wrestling is no exception. Reports suggest that Edge presented WWE with a financial offer, but the company declined. AEW’s Tony Khan seized the opportunity and extended a lucrative contract to the Rated-R Superstar. This financial incentive may have been too enticing for Edge to resist.
Edge Did It for Christian Cage
One of the most compelling reasons behind Edge’s move to AEW is his former tag team partner, Christian Cage. Eric Bischoff had predicted that Christian would be the catalyst for Edge’s AEW signing, and his words rang true. Edge confronted Christian at Wrestle Dream, signaling a long-awaited reunion and potential feuds in AEW. The anticipation of these encounters undoubtedly fueled Edge’s decision to make the leap.
While Edge’s journey in AEW is just beginning, one thing is clear: the wrestling world will be watching closely. It may have been a combination of emotional closure, a desire for fresh challenges, and the allure of AEW’s offerings that prompted Edge to make this historic move. As fans, we can only look forward to the exciting matches and storylines that lie ahead in this new chapter of Edge’s career.
FAQs
Edge’s departure from WWE might be attributed to several factors, including a desire for new opportunities, the allure of AEW’s financial offer, and the prospect of engaging storylines.
Edge announced his retirement earlier this year during a RAW episode, surprising fans given his recent return to in-ring action.
Q3: Where did Edge make his AEW debut?
Edge made his AEW debut at the Double or Nothing event in May 2023, immediately becoming a prominent figure in AEW’s roster.
Edge addressed his critics through social media, expressing excitement about AEW’s challenges and showing gratitude for his time at WWE. He emphasized that wrestling should be fun and encouraged fans to support the industry as a whole.