Get ready for a wrestling showdown that’s bound to shake the ring—AEW’s Dynamite Diamond Battle Royal is making its grand return, but there’s a glaring omission: no mention of MJF, the man who’s dominated this event like no other. But here’s where it gets controversial: Will the undefeated champion return from his Hollywood ventures in time to defend his legacy and secure another shot at the AEW World title? Or is this the year someone else claims the coveted Dynamite Diamond Ring?
On Wednesday, December 17, AEW will host the seventh edition of the Dynamite Diamond Battle Royal as part of a three-hour Holiday Bash special, airing live from Manchester, England. This high-stakes event will see the last two wrestlers standing advance to a one-on-one match for the prestigious ring, set to take place on the Christmas Eve episode of Dynamite on 34th Street in New York City. And the stakes? They couldn’t be higher—the winner not only claims the ring but also earns a World title shot at the Maximum Carnage edition of Dynamite in Phoenix, Arizona, on January 14.
And this is the part most people miss: Maxwell Jacob Friedman, aka MJF, has won the Dynamite Diamond Ring every single time it’s been contested—six times in a row. But since his loss to Mark Briscoe at All Out Toronto in September, MJF has been MIA, focusing on his Hollywood projects, including the upcoming Violent Night 2. He’s promised a triumphant return to remind fans why he’s considered a generational talent, but could this be a strategic move to keep his name tied to the Battle Royal? Or is he genuinely ready to reclaim his throne?
The wrestling world is buzzing with speculation. Will MJF make a dramatic comeback to extend his undefeated streak, or will a new contender rise to the challenge? Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is MJF’s dominance in this event a testament to his skill, or has the competition simply not stepped up? Let us know in the comments—this debate is sure to spark some heated opinions.
As the clock ticks down to December 17, one thing’s for certain: this year’s Dynamite Diamond Battle Royal will be a must-watch event, whether MJF is in the mix or not. Stay tuned, because the drama is only just beginning…
Sean Rueter, a seasoned wrestling analyst with decades of experience, brings you this deep dive into the world of AEW. From WrestleMania I to today, Sean’s insights have been a staple for fans on SBNation and Cageside Seats.