5 AEW Stars Who Could Be the Next Main Event Players
When fans discuss the future of AEW’s main event scene, names like Kyle Fletcher, Konosuke Takeshita, Maya World, and Kevin Knight are often among the first mentioned. They feel like obvious candidates for major championship opportunities in the years ahead.
But what happens after that group breaks through?
AEW boasts one of the deepest rosters in professional wrestling, with talent constantly rising through the ranks. While some stars appear destined for the spotlight, others are quietly positioning themselves for a future run in the main event scene. Here are five wrestlers who could emerge as AEW’s next wave of top stars.
Daniel Garcia

For years, many fans viewed Daniel Garcia as a future main-event player. While he has enjoyed success, including a reign as TNT Champion, he has yet to make the leap many expected.
Now aligned with the Death Riders, Garcia finds himself in a position that could accelerate his growth. The faction offers opportunities for higher-profile storylines and meaningful television time. Eventually, a split from the group could provide the catalyst he needs. A feud with Jon Moxley, for example, could elevate Garcia from respected midcard talent to legitimate world title contender.
Kyle O’Reilly

Few wrestlers on the AEW roster possess the experience and credibility of Kyle O’Reilly. Despite that, much of his run has been spent in tag teams and factions rather than pursuing singles gold.
Currently holding the AEW World Trios Championship, O’Reilly remains one of the company’s most technically gifted performers. A former ROH World Champion, he has already proven he can carry a promotion as a singles star. If AEW ever decides to position him as a serious challenger, fans would have little trouble believing he belongs in the world title picture.
Megan Bayne

If presence alone determined championship success, Megan Bayne would already be at the top of the women’s division.
Bayne possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and confidence that immediately commands attention. While she has come up short in previous championship pursuits, her stock continues to rise. As one-half of the AEW Women’s Tag Team Champions, she is already featured prominently, and it feels increasingly likely that a Women’s World Championship run is in her future. Simply put, Bayne has all the tools necessary to become a dominant force in AEW.
Ace Austin

Since arriving in AEW, Ace Austin has followed an unconventional path. Despite being a member of the Bang Bang Gang, much of his work has taken place on Collision rather than at the forefront of AEW programming.
Still, whenever Austin receives a meaningful opportunity, he consistently delivers. His charisma, athletic ability, and natural connection with audiences make him an intriguing long-term prospect. While his rise may take time, Austin has repeatedly shown flashes of the star potential that once made him one of TNA’s most promising young talents.
Jake Doyle

Every faction eventually produces a breakout star, and the current version of the Don Callis Family may have already found theirs in Jake Doyle.
Doyle stands out immediately thanks to his size and physical presence, qualities that are increasingly rare in modern wrestling. What makes him especially intriguing, however, is his athleticism. Despite his imposing frame, he moves with a quickness that allows him to keep pace with AEW’s fast-paced style.
As he gains experience and exposure, Doyle has the potential to develop into the kind of intimidating, dominant champion that every promotion needs. Among AEW’s rising stars, he may have one of the highest ceilings.
Conclusion
While names like Fletcher and Takeshita may be first in line for future world title opportunities, AEW’s depth ensures the conversation doesn’t stop there. Whether it’s Garcia finally fulfilling his long-discussed potential, Bayne taking over the women’s division, or Doyle emerging as the next powerhouse attraction, the next generation of AEW main-event talent is already taking shape. The only question is who will seize the opportunity first.
