The Butcher and The Blade Eye Return to AEW After Blade’s Recovery

After a lengthy absence due to a significant injury, the tag team of The Butcher and The Blade are poised for a potential return to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). The duo, comprised of Andy Williams (The Butcher) and Braxton Sutter (The Blade), have been sidelined since January 2024, but recent developments suggest their in-ring partnership could be rekindled soon.

The Blade’s Road to Recovery

The absence of The Butcher and The Blade stemmed from a back injury sustained by The Blade, requiring spinal fusion surgery. Cageside Seats reported that the surgery took place in 2024, initiating a prolonged recovery process. The Blade made his return to independent wrestling in late December 2025, signaling a significant step towards full recovery.

Still Under Contract with AEW

Despite the time away from AEW television, The Butcher remains under contract with the promotion. Speaking to Youngstown Studio, Williams explained that AEW has continued to pay him throughout his and The Blade’s absence. He acknowledged the challenges of being a tag team when one member is unable to compete, stating, “Like, as a tag team wrestler, it’s like how many times can you send a guy out there in singles matches and then they lose?”

Waiting for the Call

While The Blade has been competing on the independent circuit to regain ring shape, both wrestlers are awaiting a potential call-up from AEW. The Butcher expressed optimism about a return, noting that the current wave of injuries within AEW could create an opportunity for their comeback. “And just waiting for the call for a return, and hopefully it happens soon. I recognize that there’s like a lot of injuries going on right now in AEW. So, that’s usually an indicator that, like they’re probably going to bring some guys back that they’re sitting,” he said.

Team History and Early Career

The Butcher and The Blade debuted as a tag team in September 2017, initially competing on the independent circuit and in regional promotions such as Bar Wrestling, Beyond Wrestling, and Empire State Wrestling in the United States, and Capital City Championship Combat (C4) and Smash Wrestling in Canada. According to Wikipedia, they initially gained recognition by winning the Pro Wrestling Rampage (PWR) Tag Team Championship in September 2017, defeating The Upper Echelon.

Former Management with Allie/The Bunny

From 2019 to 2023, The Butcher and The Blade were managed by Allie, also known as The Bunny. Wikipedia notes that this association was a key part of their presentation during their earlier run in AEW.

Looking Ahead

As The Blade continues to regain full health and The Butcher remains ready to compete, the potential return of this formidable tag team to AEW is generating excitement among fans. The timing of their return, given the current landscape of AEW’s tag team division and the ongoing injury situation, could prove pivotal for their success.