AEW tag team stars Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler, collectively known as FTR, have announced an indefinite hiatus from All Elite Wrestling programming to recover from physical injuries and spend time with their families. Harwood confirmed the team’s status via social media, noting that the duo has been working a rigorous schedule since 2014 without significant breaks.
Why is FTR stepping away from AEW?
Harwood cited long-term physical exhaustion and a series of untreated injuries as the primary drivers for the break. In a statement posted to his social media channels, Harwood detailed a history of health issues, including multiple bicep tears, hematomas on his lower back, and a recurring labrum injury.
"Physically and mentally, we both became exhausted," Harwood stated. He emphasized that the decision was made to prioritize their health and families after years of maintaining a demanding travel and performance schedule across both AEW Collision and AEW Dynamite. The team has not appeared on AEW television since their loss to Adam Copeland and Christian Cage at the Double or Nothing pay-per-view event on May 24, 2024.
Will FTR continue to wrestle during their hiatus?
Despite their absence from AEW, FTR remains committed to select independent and international bookings. Harwood confirmed appearances at two upcoming events:
- August 22, 2024: A match against The Good Brothers at an Appalachian Mountain Wrestling event in Corbin, Kentucky.
- August 29, 2024: A challenge against The Young Guns for the Undisputed British Tag Team Titles at a RevPro UK show in Wembley Arena.
What is the status of FTR’s AEW contract?
Reports regarding FTR’s long-term future in AEW have circulated as the team nears the end of their current agreement. According to a report from Bodyslam.net, the duo is approaching the option year of the four-year contract they signed with the promotion in 2023.
The same report indicated that while there has been "preliminary interest" from WWE communicated through mutual contacts, there is no verified information suggesting an imminent departure. FTR has maintained that they believe their consistency and performance record should position them as a top-tier financial act within the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Status: FTR is on a self-imposed hiatus from AEW to manage chronic injuries and personal commitments.
- Timeline: The team has not appeared on AEW programming since May 24, 2024.
- Future Appearances: The pair will fulfill specific independent bookings in August 2024 before continuing their hiatus.
- Contractual Context: FTR is currently entering the option year of their AEW deal, with industry reports noting interest from external promotions.
Harwood did not provide a specific return date for the team’s AEW comeback, noting that he is unsure how much longer the duo will continue to compete or what their specific path will look like once they return.