Six Riveting Heel Turns Anticipated for AEW Redemption 2026

AEW

All Elite Wrestling has announced a new pay‑per‑view event, AEW Redemption 2026, scheduled to take place in Montreal. As the final event before AEW All In London 2026, Redemption promises to influence the company’s direction. Introducing several babyface heel turns at this showcase could create a standout moment distinct from the year’s other marquee events. The following outlines six plausible heel turns that could occur at Redemption 2026.

6. Mina Shirakawa

After AEW Revolution 2026, Timeless Toni Storm was assaulted backstage in a vicious, blood‑soaked attack. The incident left Mina Shirakawa isolated, despite support from occasional allies. While the perpetrator remains unidentified, speculation about the attacker’s identity will likely develop into a major storyline before Storm’s eventual return. If Shirakawa were to confess to the assault, it would dramatically alter fan perception of the former Wonder of Stardom Champion.

5. Tay Melo

During the June 6 edition of AEW Collision, DivineDominion captured the Women’s World Tag Team Championship, retaining it. Witnessing her partner’s defeat appeared to destabilize Tay Melo, whose partnership with Anna Jay may be fragile. A betrayal by Tay toward Jay would be unexpected and could ignite a intense rivalry.

4. Zayda Steel

Although she originally signed with WWE’s ID program in early 2025, Zayda Steel ultimately joined All Elite Wrestling, aligning with SkyFlight and becoming a frequent presence on Ring of Honor TV. Her charisma, confidence, and steadily improving in‑ring skills have earned praise from fans and critics alike. At 22, Steel possesses the potential to emerge as a breakout star in AEW’s women’s division. Transitioning to a heel character at Redemption 2026 could further amplify her momentum.

3. Buddy Matthews

Before a severe ankle injury sidelined him in early 2025, Buddy Matthews had recently shifted to a babyface role after years as a heel in AEW. Recognized as one of the most versatile and underrated competitors in the industry, Matthews may feel frustration at the extended hiatus, especially as his stablemate Brody King continues as a babyface. A comeback that sees Matthews turn on King could instantly introduce a fresh persona and deliver a shocking moment to the Redemption crowd.

2. Keith Lee

Keith Lee has been absent from AEW programming since December 2023, with no official return announcements. Recent reports suggest the promotion is exploring his potential comeback. If Lee were to return and adopt a heel persona, it would represent a striking departure from his long‑standing babyface identity, positioning him as a new dominant antagonist for AEW.

1. Jay White

At AEW Forbidden Door 2026, Adam Copeland and Christian Cage retained the World Tag Team Championship after Jay White re‑entered AEW and delivered a decisive assist, striking David Finlay with his signature Blade Runner. On the subsequent July 1 Dynamite, White delivered his first promo in 459 days, addressing Finlay, The Dogs, The Death Riders, and Will Ospreay. Potential feuds with Ospreay and The Death Riders may emerge, and a heel turn could open compelling narrative avenues for the Switchblade character.

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