Multiple Former WWE Names Spotted Backstage at AEW Dynamite

The January 2, 2025, episode of AEW Dynamite: Fight for the Fallen turned heads not just for its in-ring action but also for the backstage presence of two notable former WWE personalities—Beth Phoenix and Samantha Irvin.

Beth Phoenix’s AEW Appearance

WWE Hall of Famer Beth Phoenix was backstage at Dynamite to support her husband, Adam Copeland (formerly Edge), who competed in the evening’s main event. Copeland teamed with FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) against The Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, and Wheeler Yuta).

The match ended with Copeland and FTR securing a triumphant hometown win. Since Phoenix and Copeland reside in the area, her attendance was seen as a natural gesture of support, though it still sparked fan speculation about her potential future involvement with AEW.

Samantha Irvin Sparks Speculation

Former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin was also seen backstage at the event. Irvin, married to former WWE star Ricochet, attended Dynamite on the same night Ricochet made a shocking turn. During the show, Ricochet turned heel in dramatic fashion by attacking Swerve Strickland.

Irvin’s presence has fueled speculation about whether she might reprise her ring announcer role in AEW, though she has publicly stated she doesn’t currently plan to return to wrestling.

AEW’s Growing Appeal

The backstage appearances of Phoenix and Irvin highlight AEW’s ability to attract top-tier talent and maintain connections with wrestling’s biggest stars. Their presence underscores AEW’s reputation as a welcoming space for both current and former WWE names.

Fans React to Backstage Buzz

Fans are abuzz with theories about what these appearances mean for AEW. Could Phoenix or Irvin take on roles within AEW, or were they simply supporting their loved ones? With AEW entering a new era following its debut on MAX, these developments have added to the growing excitement surrounding the promotion.