New Details On Why AEW Signed Sting & How He Will Be Used
Sting debuted for AEW on this week's Winter Is Coming special, but will he wrestle?
One of the biggest AEW stories of the year unfolded at Winter Is Coming on Wednesday night, as WCW legend Sting debuted for the promotion, making an epic entrance following a tag bout featuring Cody Rhodes, Darby Allin, and Team Taz.
An official AEW press release issued after the show confirmed that 'The Icon' had signed a multi-year, full-time deal. Dave Meltzer has now come through with additional information.
Speaking on a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Meltzer stated that Sting's condition means he won't be taking bumps in AEW. If the promotion does elect to do something physical with him, they will do so with maximum precautions, given his age (Sting is 61 years old) and history of neck issues. Every possible measure will be taken to ensure Sting avoids getting hurt.
It is believed that even though he can't take bumps, AEW will use Sting as a weekly TV performer, not just somebody who makes occasional appearances.
With regards to why Sting was signed, AEW wanted to tap into older generations of fans and TNT viewers who remember 'The Icon' from his WCW days. The big debut was deliberately timed around the Christmas holiday in order to give AEW momentum during a tricky time of year, ratings-wise.