Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) has been out of the public eye since December 2023. He went into his high-stakes battle against Samoa Joe at AEW World’s End facing multiple injuries, including a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He lost his prized ‘BBB’ AEW World title and is still not ready to get back in the ring over four months later.
MJF Update: The 28-year-old wrestling prodigy recently met with AEW officials to discuss his return. PWInsider reports that MJF traveled to Boston last month for a gathering that took place after Big Business on March 13. He’s not been seen backstage at any AEW shows this year.
We recently got confirmation on the AEW PPV Schedule for 2024, including the dates, cities and venues. It’s interesting to note that after next month’s Double or Nothing PPV from Las Vegas, AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door heads to MJF’s backyard of Long Island, NY on June 30.
Uncertain Future
Amid his absence, fans have speculated about his future in AEW. MJF has been vocal about his contract expiry in 2024. The eagle-eyed fans have been wondering if he became a free agent during his time off.
Additionally. AEW fueled the speculation as they removed the former AEW World Champion from their official roster page. Furthermore, his merchandise was also taken off. While his future remains up in the air, it is believed that he is still under a contract with the promotion.
Check out our December 2023 interview with MJF hosted by The Solomonster:
WWE
WWE has kept MJF on their radar for quite some time and recently several AEW stars such as Andrade, Jade Cargill, and Shawn Spears have also jumped ship to WWE. This keeps the possibility intact of WWE splurging a huge deal to bag MJF’s signing.
As of now, there is no timetable for MJF’s return as he recuperates the injuries that have plagued him over the past few months.
