Toni Storm’s AEW Absence: Not an Injury, But a Storyline Development

The wrestling world was left wondering about the status of “Timeless” Toni Storm after she was unexpectedly removed from her scheduled No Holds Barred match against Marina Shafir on the March 18th episode of AEW Dynamite. Initial reports suggested a potential long-term absence, but it has now been revealed that Storm is not sidelined due to an injury.

What Happened to Toni Storm?

Just ten minutes before AEW Dynamite went live, AEW announced that Storm had been “taken out” backstage, leading to her replacement by Mina Shirikawa in the match against Shafir. Shirikawa went on to win the match, earning a future championship opportunity against reigning AEW Women’s World Champion Thekla.

Not an Injury, But a Planned Angle

According to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, Storm’s situation is “not an injury or anything like that.” Meltzer reported on Wrestling Observer Radio that AEW was under the impression as late as Wednesday morning that Storm would be able to compete, but had to quickly devise an “emergency angle” to explain her absence. SI.com reported on the situation.

Long-Term Plans for Storm’s Absence

Fightful Select reported that AEW is prepared for Storm to be unable to wrestle through 2026 and that plans are already in place for a storyline involving a mystery attacker. The scene where Storm was found was intentionally filled with “Easter eggs” to encourage fan speculation about who was responsible. SI.com too noted this detail.

Toni Storm’s Background

Toni Rossall, known professionally as Toni Storm, is a New Zealand-Australian professional wrestler currently signed to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). She performs under the moniker “Timeless” Toni Storm. Prior to AEW, Storm gained recognition in promotions like World Wonder Ring Stardom, Progress Wrestling, and Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw). She also had a stint with WWE, winning the Mae Young Classic in 2018 and becoming a one-time NXT UK Women’s Champion before requesting her release in 2021. Wikipedia provides a detailed biography.

Recent Accomplishments

As of March 2022, Storm was a four-time AEW Women’s World Champion. In 2023, she transitioned to a gimmick inspired by classic Hollywood actresses. Wikipedia details her career progression.

The situation surrounding Toni Storm’s absence is developing, and fans will be watching closely to see how the mystery attacker storyline unfolds.