All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has become a hub for exhilarating in-ring action and unforgettable surprise debuts. Over the past five years, AEW Dynamite has witnessed many jaw-dropping moments that fans still talk about today. Whether it was the arrival of a legend, a breakout star, or a controversial figure, these debuts often electrified the wrestling world.
In this retrospective, we revisit five of the best AEW Dynamite debuts ever as part of the show’s 5th anniversary celebration. These debuts not only shocked the audience but also set the stage for historic matches and feuds in AEW.
Sting’s Shocking AEW Debut (December 2, 2020)
Sting’s arrival on AEW Dynamite marked one of the most jaw-dropping moments in modern wrestling. A legendary figure in professional wrestling, Sting had not been seen in a wrestling ring since 2015 following his departure from WWE. When the lights dimmed and the snow began to fall during the “Winter is Coming” episode of Dynamite, fans had no idea that one of the most iconic stars in WCW history was about to make his return.
The reaction was instantaneous, and audience members at Daily’s Place and those watching at home couldn’t believe their eyes as Sting walked out to confront members of Team Taz, Darby Allin, and Cody Rhodes.
His mere presence created an immediate buzz and added prestige to AEW’s already impressive roster. Sting’s debut led to a long-term storyline, with the veteran eventually mentoring Darby Allin and taking part in multiple high-profile matches, including cinematic bouts that blended old-school flair with AEW’s innovative style.
Why It Stands Out:
- Sting’s first appearance in AEW after decades in WCW and WWE
- A cinematic atmosphere with the falling snow added drama
- Sparked a multi-generational storyline with Darby Allin
KENTA and the Forbidden Door (February 3, 2021)
Another debut that sent shockwaves through the wrestling community was the arrival of KENTA. Fans had long dreamed of a working relationship between AEW and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), and KENTA’s appearance on Dynamite made that dream a reality.
On the February 3, 2021, episode, KENTA attacked Jon Moxley, hitting him with his devastating Go To Sleep (GTS) finisher.
This debut was not just about KENTA but about opening the “Forbidden Door” between AEW and NJPW, allowing stars from both promotions to face off. The excitement around this debut reverberated across social media, with fans eagerly anticipating future cross-promotional matches.
Why It Stands Out
- Opened the “Forbidden Door” between AEW and NJPW
- Marked KENTA’s first appearance in AEW, targeting Jon Moxley
- Elevated the global appeal of AEW with international storylines
FTR (June 3, 2020)
When FTR (formerly known as The Revival in WWE) made their AEW debut on the June 3, 2020, episode of Dynamite, it was the culmination of years of anticipation. Wrestling fans had been clamoring for a match between FTR and The Young Bucks, two of the best tag teams in the world, since AEW’s inception.
FTR made their dramatic entrance by driving a pickup truck into Daily’s Place to save The Young Bucks from an attack by The Butcher and The Blade. Although they initially appeared as babyfaces, FTR quickly aligned themselves with Tully Blanchard and embraced their heel persona.
The subsequent showdown between FTR and The Young Bucks lived up to the hype, becoming one of the most acclaimed tag team matches in recent wrestling history.
Why It Stands Out
- Long-awaited arrival of FTR in AEW
- Set up one of the best tag team matches in AEW history against The Young Bucks
- Reinforced AEW’s commitment to elevating tag team wrestling
Brodie Lee: The Exalted One (March 18, 2020)
The late Brodie Lee’s debut as the leader of The Dark Order, known as “The Exalted One,” was an unforgettable moment for AEW. On the March 18, 2020, episode of Dynamite, Lee (formerly Luke Harper in WWE) revealed himself as the mysterious figure behind The Dark Order faction. His arrival helped elevate The Dark Order from a mid-card stable to one of AEW’s most important factions.
Brodie Lee immediately made his presence felt, delivering dominant performances and quickly capturing the TNT Championship.
His feud with Cody Rhodes became one of AEW’s most emotionally charged storylines, culminating in an incredible Dog Collar match that further solidified his legacy in AEW.
Why It Stands Out
- Brodie Lee’s transformation into a top-tier heel as “The Exalted One”
- Elevated The Dark Order as a dominant faction in AEW
- The emotional weight of his untimely passing, leaving a lasting legacy
Malakai Black (July 7, 2021)
Malakai Black’s debut on AEW Dynamite was another major surprise that caught fans off guard. On the July 7, 2021, episode, Black (formerly known as Aleister Black in WWE) appeared unexpectedly and immediately targeted Cody Rhodes, delivering his signature Black Mass kick.
What made this debut even more shocking was that Black had been released from WWE just over a month prior, leading fans to believe they wouldn’t see him in action for some time due to the standard non-compete clause.
However, AEW moved quickly, capitalizing on Black’s momentum and incorporating his dark, mysterious persona into a feud with Cody Rhodes that became a must-watch storyline.
Why It Stands Out
- Malakai Black’s sudden appearance post-WWE release shocked fans
- Immediate impact by targeting top star Cody Rhodes
- Black’s dark, cinematic character added a new layer to AEW’s storytelling
