Hikaru Shida has made a return to AEW after a long hiatus on the April 2 episode of Collision. She had not wrestled for the promotion since November 2024, however, she is back and answered an open challenge from Willow Nightingale. This was Nightingale’s six title defense of the TBS Title since defeating Mercedes Moné on December 31.
Nightingale retained, much to the shock of Shida. After the result, Shida looked to perhaps use her kendo stick to the back of Nightingale but fought off the urge.
Nightingale will remain a fighting champion against a returning Queen Aminata. Aminata has been out of action since the end of October due to a neck injury. This match takes place on the April 8 episode of Dynamite.
Elsewhere on Collision, The Divine Dominion made short work of Ava Lawless and Kristara.
AEW Dynasty is taking place on April 12. We now have two women’s matches on the card. Jamie Hayter called out Thekla and the two will clash for the AEW Women’s World Title. This will be Thekla’s fourth title defense since defeating Kris Statlander on Feb. 11.
The NJPW STRONG Women’s Title will be defended on Dynasty’s pre show as Alex Windsor defends against Marina Shafir. Windsor will also defend the title against STARDOM’s Saya Iida on April 17.