AEW is again in Australia — and this time, the primary photographs hitting social media are already altering the dialog.
Footage from contained in the Sydney venue has surfaced forward of AEW Grand Slam: Australia, giving followers their first take a look at the stage and ring setup for immediately’s present. The massive LED panels, vibrant entrance show, and arena-wide lighting make it clear the corporate is aiming for an even bigger visible presentation than final yr.
That issues. In 2025, Grand Slam: Australia had its share of points, however one of many greatest speaking factors wasn’t simply the seating complaints — it was the ring itself. Followers watching the February 15 broadcast couldn’t ignore how small it seemed on tv. Social media lit up, with one viewer joking, “Was this ring constructed for ants?”
The explanation was easy. As an alternative of transport its personal ring abroad, AEW borrowed one regionally. Ringside Information confirmed on the time that the corporate opted to not fly in its normal setup. On tv, the distinction was apparent. The ring seemed dwarfed contained in the venue, and the presentation felt off in comparison with AEW’s ordinary manufacturing requirements.
Now, the early footage circulating on-line tells a distinct story. The ring seen within the new clips seems to be a full-sized AEW setup, filling the ground house correctly and matching the dimensions of the stage design. Visually, it seems to be way more in keeping with what followers count on from a significant worldwide broadcast.
Final yr’s occasion was already beneath scrutiny after followers paid premium costs for seats that didn’t match expectations. The smaller ring solely fueled frustration. This time round, AEW appears decided to keep away from those self same errors — not less than from a manufacturing standpoint.
What’s your response to the primary take a look at this yr’s setup? Drop your ideas and suggestions within the feedback under.