AEW is not saying Toni Storm’s name. It does not really need to.
On November 15, AEW posted a cryptic video on Instagram showing a package with the words “Play Me” written on it. A lipstick was also prominently featured, seemingly pointing straight at Storm and the mystery surrounding her absence.
The “Play Me” message matches the mysterious packages that began appearing around WrestleDream in October. Select media members received cassettes labeled “Toni Storm Tapes,” with instructions to play them.
The first cassette, titled “Mundanities,” featured Renee Paquette narrating recordings supposedly captured from a device Storm secretly carried in her purse. It was marked as the first of five tapes.
AEW’s Slow Build for Toni Storm
Fightful Select previously reported that the tapes were planted as part of AEW’s plan to slowly build toward Storm’s return. The company reportedly intends to drop several clues about who attacked Storm and took her off television, with multiple suspects teased along the way.
That does not mean Storm is about to walk back onto Dynamite. Her in-ring return was previously said not to be imminent, and AEW can keep advancing the story through teases while she is away.
Tony Khan has confirmed she will return, without putting a date on it.
I can’t say when or where but I know ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm will be back in AEW.
With the “Play Me” imagery now on AEW’s own social media, the mystery is no longer confined to cassettes handed out behind the scenes. Another piece of the Toni Storm story appears to be on the way.
