Revealed: WWE Reaction To Adam Copeland's AEW Debut
What did WWE think of Adam Copeland's AEW debut?
Oct 2, 2023
Following numerous reports and plenty of speculation, Adam Copeland made his All Elite Wrestling debut at WrestleDream on October 1. The former Edge made the save for Darby Allin and Sting during a Christian Cage, Luchasaurus, and Nick Wayne beatdown following the main event, with WrestleDream going off the air as Copeland stood tall.
Copeland will be a full-time talent in AEW and Fightful Select has reported the 49-year-old will have a "significant presence" in the promotion and he is willing to help out in a variety of roles. One longtime AEW talent revealed Copeland spoke about "filling the gap that CM Punk left behind" in terms of being helpful behind the scenes.
Some in WWE reportedly said it became obvious from the beginning of the summer that Edge wouldn't be sticking around after his contract expired on September 30. Adam Copeland was said to have departed WWE on good terms, though, and he would be welcomed back should he ever decide to return. Those within the company were simply "happy for him."
The reaction within AEW was overwhelmingly positive, with some noting Edge coming in was the worst-kept secret in wrestling.
Copeland was able to keep his 'Metalingus' entrance music since WWE never held exclusive rights to the song. In a surprise, though, Copeland is still the 'Rated R Superstar' as WWE allowed the trademark to lapse and the company decided not to renew the term when it became obvious he would be leaving.
Following his AEW debut, Copeland detailed why he decided to leave WWE for All Elite Wrestling. Copeland will make his in-ring debut at AEW Dynamite: Title Tuesday on October 10. He will take on Luchasaurus.