Predicting Where Every AEW Wrestler Will Be In 5 Years' Time
73. CM Punk
One of pro wrestling's most resourceful and skilled storytellers, he uses fabric as well as his incendiary promo game to build his intricate matches. He's CM Punk. He, quite famously, can do absolutely everything. He's also extremely unlikely to still be wrestling in 2026, and despite being lulled back into the industry seems more than content to leave it behind all over again.
He won't do that; he'll become the best colour commentator since Bobby Heenan, only on a full-time basis. He's quite incredible at the role already.
72. Cody Rhodes
Never trust a pro wrestler when they set a retirement date. Never trust a wrestler who vows to retire generally.
The difference with Cody Rhodes is that he has options and aspirations beyond the squared circle; in fact, pro wrestling was his second career choice.
Love the man, but he doesn't half love himself, and he has a drive that is insatiable in its ambition. He has flirted with entering the political arena, and if there's any pro wrestler operating currently with the intelligence, ruthlessness, smile, and sheer blustering fancy-talk to succeed in it, it's Cody Rhodes.
He'd hold a hell of a rally, if nothing else.
71. Colt Cabana
A true independent contractor, if there's money to be made in pro wrestling, Colt Cabana can make it.
There's still money in podcasting. He's a gregarious fellow who can make a killing on the convention circuit. He's a sharp lad who could teach seminars. He's creative enough to revolutionise a new revenue stream that nobody else has dreamed up yet. He's also more than capable, despite his continued ability to execute an underrated moonsault, of wrestling a style that requires next-to-no bump taking.
He can do what he wants, and as a result, AEW should want to retain him in the office.