Steven Borden sustained a legitimate head injury during a tag team match at AEW All Out on September 26, 2026, forcing the referee to call a sudden stoppage. Borden was teaming with TNT Champion Darby Allin against Kyle Fletcher and Kevin Knight when a midair collision resulted in a hard impact on the mat, leading ringside physician Dr. Michael Sampson to immediately examine him in the ring.
AEW All Out Match Stoppage and Medical Response
The match at AEW All Out was halted late in the contest as Borden and Kevin Knight climbed opposite turnbuckles and launched themselves toward each other. The two wrestlers collided in midair, causing Borden to strike the back of his head hard upon landing on the mat. As Borden remained motionless, Dr. Michael Sampson entered the ring to check on him, and referee Bryce Remsburg quickly signaled for the bell to end the bout. Kyle Fletcher and Kevin Knight were awarded the victory by doctor stoppage, making them the number-one contenders to the AEW World Tag Team Championship.
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Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful confirmed via social media that the injury was genuine and not part of a scripted angle. Dave Meltzer later reported that Borden left the arena on a stretcher. During the broadcast, Tony Schiavone provided an update to viewers, stating that Borden was conscious and responsive after arriving at the hospital for treatment.
Wrestling Industry Reaction and Broadcast Details
AEW commentators addressed the gravity of the situation live on air as medical personnel attended to Borden. Taz emphasized on commentary that while fans naturally want to see a definitive finish to a high-stakes match, the safety and health of the competitors must always take priority over the outcome. Production cameras did not show Borden’s departure from ringside, and the broadcast cut back to the commentary desk of Excalibur, Taz, and Tony Schiavone following the initial medical check.
