In the world of professional wrestling, certain names echo through time, captivating generations of fans. Among these, the Rated-R Superstar, Edge, stands out as a beacon of talent, resilience, and charisma. As whispers grow about his imminent departure from WWE, the wrestling community stands on the precipice of an era’s potential end and the dawning of an exciting, unpredictable future.
Flashback to 2011 – Edge’s fans felt an insurmountable loss when he announced his retirement due to a devastating neck injury. But passion knows no bounds. The 2020 Royal Rumble saw him storm back into the ring, met by one of the most emotionally charged ovations in WWE history. It wasn’t just a return; it was a statement of grit.
Yet, every in-ring journey has its sunset, and for Edge, that horizon might be closer than many anticipated. Recent reports suggest that his clash with Sheamus on SmackDown could be the culmination of his current WWE contract. This match, draped in sentiment and legacy, is charged with anticipation.
Diving deep into his thoughts on a potential retirement, Edge recently sat down with ET Canada. “I’ve put some thought into [retirement] but not a lot,” he admitted, leaving room for speculation. In his trademark humour-infused style, he also added a jest about his post-retirement plans involving pyrotechnics: “Every time I walk into the room, the music needs to hit and there needs to [be] at least sparklers.”
But even as he contemplates the end, Edge’s passion for the sport remains palpable. Earlier this year, on the IMPAULSIVE podcast with Logan Paul, he showcased both his dedication and realism. “I think at most I might have another year in me, to be able to do at this level,” he mused, highlighting the challenges of competing with emerging talents, some of whom weren’t even born when he started his WWE journey.
While it’s easy to reflect on his career’s accolades, it’s essential to realise that this is a man who’s continuously evolved and reinvented himself. The upcoming showdown with Sheamus is symbolic in this sense. Edge highlighted this, acknowledging the Celtic Warrior’s role in rekindling his passion for wrestling.
Yet, despite the highs, the path hasn’t been without its challenges. Edge gave fans a glimpse into the physical and mental toll that decades in the ring have taken on him. “I’m going to be 50 in October. It’s not easy anymore… It’s the dream gig, but it’s getting really hard,” he shared, providing a candid look at the life of a veteran wrestler.
But here’s where the plot thickens: the wrestling landscape has changed dramatically over the years, with AEW emerging as a significant contender to WWE’s dominance. With his WWE contract nearing its end, rumours are rife about Edge considering a move to AEW. This isn’t a mere conjecture. Several of Edge’s long-time friends and colleagues, including his ex-tag team partner Christian, have already joined AEW’s ranks.
AEW’s forthcoming flagship event, ‘All In,’ scheduled at London’s Wembley Stadium, seems like a fitting platform for such seismic shifts. With the likes of Kenny Omega, Chris Jericho, and Jon Moxley already on the roster, the addition of Edge would be nothing short of electrifying.
Edge’s potential foray into AEW isn’t just about the change of banners. It’s about reimagining rivalries, revisiting friendships, and the prospect of matches that fans could previously only dream about. For Edge, it could be a chance to step into the ring with both familiar adversaries and new, hungry talent eager to make their mark.
As fans brace themselves for the upcoming SmackDown event, a myriad of emotions run high. Excitement, nostalgia, anticipation, and hope meld into a heady mix. Will Edge’s WWE journey culminate in a match that becomes the stuff of legends? Or is this merely a prologue to a thrilling new chapter in AEW?
Edge’s legacy in WWE is undeniable. His name is synonymous with iconic matches, unforgettable moments, and a dedication that’s second to none. However, the allure of new challenges and the opportunity to wrestle with and against some of the brightest talents in AEW is an enticing prospect.
Wrestling, at its core, is as much about storytelling as it is about athleticism. And for Edge, his story is one of triumphs, tribulations, and tenacity. Whether he chooses to bid WWE a final farewell or embarks on a fresh journey in AEW, one thing remains unchanged: Edge’s commitment to giving fans memories that will last a lifetime.
In the ever-evolving narrative of professional wrestling, Edge remains a pivotal character. As the next chapters unfold, fans worldwide will be watching, cheering, and celebrating the journey of the Rated-R Superstar. Whatever path he chooses, it’s bound to be a spectacle.
