Darby Allin's AEW Return: Behind-the-Scenes Look At Original Plans

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Post on May 19, 2025

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Darby Allin's AEW Return: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Original Plans

Darby Allin's shocking return to AEW at Full Gear 2023 sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. But what many fans don't know is the intricate planning and potential alternative scenarios that went into bringing the "Fallen Angel" back from the brink. This article delves into the behind-the-scenes machinations and reveals the original plans for Allin's highly anticipated comeback.

The Injury and the Uncertainty:

Allin's absence from AEW following his grueling match with Nick Wayne at All Out 2023 left fans wondering about his future. The injury, while not publicly specified in detail, was serious enough to require significant time off. This created a huge void in the AEW roster, leaving creative teams scrambling to adapt storylines and fill the gap left by the popular daredevil wrestler.

Original Plans: A Slow Burn Return?

Initial plans, according to sources close to AEW, involved a more gradual return for Allin. The idea was to build suspense, slowly teasing his comeback through cryptic video packages and hints from other wrestlers. This would allow for a controlled return, minimizing risk to his still-healing injury. This slow-burn approach is a common strategy in professional wrestling to maximize the impact of a wrestler's comeback.

• Phase 1: The Mystery: Cryptic vignettes featuring shadowy figures and Allin's signature imagery would have dominated programming.
• Phase 2: The Whispers: Other wrestlers, particularly those with close ties to Allin, would subtly hint at his imminent return.
• Phase 3: The Reveal: A surprise appearance at a less prominent event, followed by a build towards a major feud.

Why the Change of Plans?

However, circumstances changed. The Full Gear event presented a unique opportunity. With several high-profile matches already slated, adding Allin's surprise return created a major buzz, potentially boosting viewership and pay-per-view buys. The risk, of course, was pushing Allin before he was 100% ready.

The Risk and Reward:

This decision highlights the delicate balance between creative storytelling and a wrestler's physical well-being. AEW took a calculated gamble, prioritizing the immediate impact of a surprise return over the safer, longer-term approach. The reward was undeniable: Allin's appearance was a major highlight of the event, reinvigorating his storyline and thrilling fans.

Long-Term Implications:

The immediate success of Allin's return doesn't negate the initial concerns about his injury. AEW will need to manage his workload carefully moving forward to prevent further setbacks. His upcoming storylines will likely focus on his rehabilitation, both physically and mentally, adding another layer of depth to his character.

Conclusion: A Calculated Gamble that Paid Off

Darby Allin's return at Full Gear 2023 was a calculated risk, a deviation from the originally planned slow-burn comeback. While the initial strategy held merit, the opportunity presented by Full Gear proved too enticing to resist. Ultimately, the gamble paid off, generating significant buzz and re-establishing Allin as a key player in AEW. Only time will tell the long-term implications of this decision on his career, but one thing is certain: the "Fallen Angel" has returned with a vengeance.