UPDATE: We have some additional backstage news and notes from the premiere episode of AEW Collision from the United Center in Chicago, IL, courtesy of Fightful Select:
The news of Kevin Kelly and Nigel McGuinness calling the weekly episodes of AEW Collision was kept “close to the vest” all week long.
While Ace Steel lives in Chicago, IL, he was not backstage at the AEW Collision TV tapings. Additionally, he will not be backstage at any AEW shows for the foreseeable future. Steel is under contract with the company and is working on all creative plans involving CM Punk.
And finally, Dasha Gonzalez will be the full-time ring announcer for AEW Collision.
ORIGINAL: The lines to get into the United Center in Chicago, IL for the premiere episode of AEW Collision were very long. The merchandise lines were long as well.
Speaking of merchandise, AEW is selling a special ‘I was there’ Second Coming t-shirt for CM Punk.
Tony Khan’s father, Shad Khan, is backstage at the show.
Chris Hero, Jimmy Jacobs, and Kevin Matthews are backstage at the show. All three men are working behind-the-scenes in producer/creative type roles. Hero is said to be working on a trial basis for now.
A CM Punk promo is expected to open the show. There continues to be rumors of a match between Punk and KENTA taking place at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door II.
There have been numerous CM Punk chants among the fans in attendance in Chicago, IL. With that being said, some of the fans have also been booing. It’s said to be a 80/20 mix in favor of CM Punk.
Prior to the show going live, AEW hyped Fight Forever and ROH Honor Club with video packages.
And finally, you can check out a video of the stage setup for tonight’s episode of AEW Collision below:
Don’t forget to tune in to #AEW #AEWCollision tonight on TNT! pic.twitter.com/1Srkeon4Es
— Luis (@srekaens_) June 17, 2023
