Ric Flair Is Returning To AEW
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair is set to make a significant appearance on All Elite Wrestling programming for a special tribute to the late Steve "Mongo" McMichael. This appearance comes amidst Flair's ongoing multi-year agreement with AEW.
Flair officially signed with AEW in November 2023, a deal that also established his Wooooo! Energy as the exclusive energy drink of the promotion. His on-screen presence was most prominent while supporting his close friend, Sting, during his retirement tour.
That emotional journey culminated with Sting's final match at AEW Revolution in March 2024. Since then, Flair has not been a regular fixture on AEW television, though he continues to maintain an active public schedule with various appearances.
AEW is now preparing to honor Pro Football Hall of Famer and former WCW wrestler Steve "Mongo" McMichael. The tribute was announced during this week's AEW Collision broadcast.
This special tribute segment will air on Saturday, May 17, 2025, "Beach Break" episode of AEW Collision, which will fittingly emanate from Chicago. McMichael played 13 impactful seasons of his 15-year NFL career with the Chicago Bears.
Ric Flair speaks onstage at The Roast of Ric Flair at Nashville Fairgrounds on July 29, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee.
Ric Flair speaks onstage at The Roast of Ric Flair at Nashville Fairgrounds on July 29, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee.AEW commentator Tony Schiavone confirmed during a recent broadcast that McMichael's longtime friend and fellow Four Horsemen comrade, Ric Flair, will be in attendance for this heartfelt tribute. Flair's presence will undoubtedly add a significant emotional weight to the occasion.
More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation
The wrestling and football worlds recently mourned the loss of McMichael, who passed away in April 2025 at the age of 67. His passing came after a long and courageous public battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).
This tribute follows McMichael's well-deserved induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August 2024. His legacy as a Super Bowl champion and a charismatic wrestling personality will be celebrated.
The "Beach Break" episode of AEW Collision featuring the tribute is scheduled to air in its usual 8 p.m. Eastern time slot on TNT and Max on May 17th. However, the show itself will be taped on Wednesday night, May 14th, alongside the live AEW Dynamite: Beach Break broadcast.
In addition to the McMichael tribute, AEW has also announced further in-ring action for the May 17th Collision. Megan Bayne is scheduled to face Anna Jay in a singles competition.
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