AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door Preview Match Card, Start Time, How to Watch, More
AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2024 Preview: Match Card, Start Time, How to Watch, and More
The professional wrestling world is once again bracing for a seismic shift as All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) join forces for the third annual Forbidden Door pay-per-view. Since its inception, Forbidden Door has stood as a beacon for "dream match" scenarios, bringing together the absolute best from the West and the East. This year, the stakes are higher than ever, with additional participation from CMLL and STARDOM, turning the event into a truly global wrestling festival.
Scheduled to take place at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, Forbidden Door 2024 promises to be a masterclass in storytelling, athleticism, and cross-promotional synergy. Whether you are a die-hard fan of the technical prowess found in the G1 Climax or the high-octane drama of AEW Dynamite, this event is designed to cater to every facet of the wrestling fandom. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the entire match card, provide start times across various regions, explain how you can watch the event live, and offer in-depth analysis of the top bouts.
The Evolution of the Forbidden Door: A Global Super-Show
The term "Forbidden Door" was famously coined by Hiroshi Tanahashi and popularized by Jon Moxley and Chris Jericho. What began as a collaborative effort between two companies has expanded into a multi-promotional ecosystem. This year’s event is not just about AEW and NJPW; it represents a unified front against the traditional barriers of the industry. With the inclusion of Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) stars like Hechicero and Stephanie Vaquer, and World Wonder Ring Stardom's elite talent, Forbidden Door 2024 is the most ambitious iteration yet.
The UBS Arena, a state-of-the-art facility, serves as the perfect backdrop for this clash of titans. As AEW continues to solidify its place as a global powerhouse and NJPW undergoes a transitional "New Era" under the presidency of Hiroshi Tanahashi, the chemistry between these organizations has never been more vital for the health of the industry.
AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2024: Key Event Details
| Feature/Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door (2024) |
| Date | Sunday, June 30, 2024 |
| Location | UBS Arena, Elmont, New York |
| Main Event | Swerve Strickland vs. Will Ospreay (AEW World Title) |
| Start Time (Main Card) | 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT |
| Streaming Platforms | Bleacher Report, Triller TV (FITE), YouTube, PPV.com |
| Participating Promotions | AEW, NJPW, CMLL, STARDOM |
Deep Dive into the Main Event: Swerve Strickland vs. Will Ospreay
There is perhaps no match in the modern era as highly anticipated as the collision between AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland and "The Aerial Assassin" Will Ospreay. This is more than just a title match; it is a battle for the crown of the best wrestler in the world. Swerve Strickland has enjoyed a meteoric rise, carrying the AEW World Heavyweight Championship with a level of charisma and ruthlessness that has redefined the main event scene. His "House of Swerve" philosophy has seen him overcome the likes of Samoa Joe and Christian Cage.
On the other side of the ring stands Will Ospreay. Since signing with AEW full-time, Ospreay has put on a string of five-star classics that have left audiences breathless. His history with NJPW is legendary, having won the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship and multiple Best of the Super Juniors tournaments. Ospreay’s transition from a high-flyer to a powerhouse striker makes him a dangerous threat to Swerve’s reign. The psychological warfare leading into this match has been intense, with both men claiming to be the face of the company. Expect a high-paced, hard-hitting encounter that will likely be a "Match of the Year" contender.
IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Jon Moxley vs. Tetsuya Naito
In a historic crossover, the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship will be defended on American soil as Jon Moxley faces the leader of Los Ingobernables de Japon, Tetsuya Naito. Moxley made history by becoming the first person to hold the AEW, WWE, and IWGP World Titles, a feat that cements his legacy as one of the greatest of all time. His rugged, "Death Rider" style has resonated deeply with the Japanese audience, making him a revered figure in NJPW.
Tetsuya Naito, however, is a man on a mission to reclaim the gold for NJPW. Naito is the heart and soul of the promotion, a man who survived years of adversity to reach the pinnacle. Their previous encounters have been legendary for their brutality. This match is a clash of philosophies: Moxley’s chaotic, unyielding violence versus Naito’s "Tranquilo" yet explosive counter-striking. If Naito wins, the title returns to Tokyo; if Moxley retains, he continues his dominant run across the Pacific.
The Women’s Revolution: Mercedes Moné vs. Stephanie Vaquer
One of the most intriguing additions to this year’s Forbidden Door is the "Title for Title" match between the AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Moné and the CMLL World Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer. Since her arrival in AEW, Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks) has elevated the women’s division to new heights. Her star power is undeniable, but in Stephanie Vaquer, she faces an opponent who is widely considered one of the best technical wrestlers on the planet.
Vaquer, representing CMLL and Chile, brings a grit and a "Lucha Libre" flair that is rare in the American scene. This match is a significant milestone for women's wrestling, showcasing that the "Forbidden Door" is open for everyone regardless of gender. The winner walks away a double champion, holding prestigious titles from two of the world's largest wrestling organizations.
The TNT Championship Ladder Match: A High-Stakes Spectacle
With Adam Copeland (Edge) sidelined due to injury, the TNT Championship was vacated, leading to a massive multi-man ladder match. This match type has become a staple of AEW, known for its high-risk spots and career-defining moments. The participants, including powerhouses and high-flyers from both AEW and NJPW, will vie for the title hanging above the ring. This match serves as a platform for rising stars to showcase their willingness to put their bodies on the line for gold. Names like Konosuke Takeshita, Jack Perry, and Mark Briscoe have been mentioned as potential favorites, ensuring that the ladder match will be a chaotic highlight of the night.
Technical Masterclass: Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Orange Cassidy
In a rematch that fans have been begging for, the "Technical Wizard" Zack Sabre Jr. (ZSJ) takes on AEW’s most popular enigma, Orange Cassidy. ZSJ is arguably the best submission specialist in the world, capable of turning any limb into a pretzel within seconds. Orange Cassidy, despite his "slacker" persona, has proven to be one of the most resilient and tactically sound wrestlers in AEW’s history.
Their styles create a fascinating dynamic. ZSJ will look to ground Cassidy and dismantle him methodically, while Cassidy will rely on his explosive speed and "Orange Punch" to catch the Brit off guard. This match represents the beauty of Forbidden Door—pairing two vastly different styles to see who truly reigns supreme in the squared circle.
How to Watch: Streaming and Broadcaster Guide
For fans looking to catch every second of the action, AEW has ensured a wide array of viewing options. The primary home for PPVs in the United States remains Bleacher Report, accessible via their website, mobile app, and connected devices. For international fans, Triller TV (formerly FITE) is the gold standard, offering the show with multiple language commentaries.
Additionally, fans can purchase the event through YouTube in select regions, as well as PPV.com. Traditionally, the "Zero Hour" pre-show, which usually features 2-3 additional matches, will be streamed for free on AEW’s official YouTube channel and social media platforms starting one hour before the main card.
Start Times by Region
- United States & Canada: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
- United Kingdom: 1:00 AM BST (Monday)
- Japan: 9:00 AM JST (Monday)
- Australia: 10:00 AM AEST (Monday)
- Mexico City: 6:00 PM CST
The Significance of the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament
Forbidden Door 2024 also serves as a crucial stage for the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. With the finals taking place shortly after the PPV in Calgary, the matches held at Forbidden Door often carry immense weight. Winning the Owen Hart Cup provides a massive momentum boost and usually leads to a title shot at All In London. The tournament matches scheduled for this event involve a mix of AEW veterans and NJPW stalwarts, honoring the legacy of "The Rocket" Owen Hart while pushing the current generation to their limits.
What to Expect: Surprises and Cameos
One of the trademarks of Forbidden Door is the "unexpected." Whether it’s a surprise appearance from a Stardom champion, a challenge issued by a returning legend, or a shock betrayal, the atmosphere is always electric. With Tony Khan’s penchant for big announcements, fans should stay glued to their screens during the post-match segments. There are rumors of major stars from other promotions being in the building, adding an extra layer of "must-see" energy to the broadcast.
Professional Analysis: Why This Event Matters
From an industry standpoint, Forbidden Door is a middle finger to the old "territorial" mindset of wrestling. It proves that collaboration can be more profitable and creatively fulfilling than isolation. For NJPW, it provides a massive platform to showcase their talent to an American audience that might not regularly tune into NJPW World. For AEW, it reinforces their status as the alternative "destination" for pro wrestling fans who crave work-rate and international variety.
The SEO-friendly nature of this event is also notable. Millions of fans search for "AEW vs NJPW" and "Forbidden Door Match Card" every June, making this a pivotal moment for digital engagement. The buzz generated by these matches often trends on social media for days, influencing the direction of both companies for the rest of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Forbidden Door pre-show free?
Yes, the "Zero Hour" pre-show is typically broadcast for free on AEW's YouTube channel, Facebook, and X (Twitter) accounts one hour before the main pay-per-view starts.
2. Can I watch Forbidden Door on NJPW World?
In most regions, NJPW World will offer the event, but often with a separate PPV fee or as part of a specific bundle. It is best to check the NJPW World website for regional availability, especially for fans in Japan.
3. Who is competing from CMLL and STARDOM?
Major stars like Stephanie Vaquer (CMLL) and various STARDOM wrestlers have been confirmed. This marks the first time that the women's divisions from these promotions have been so heavily integrated into the Forbidden Door event.
4. What happens if a title changes hands?
If an NJPW title is won by an AEW wrestler (or vice-versa), the champion will typically travel to the respective promotion to defend the title, further bridging the gap between the two companies.
Conclusion: A Night for the History Books
AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2024 is more than just a wrestling show; it is a celebration of the art form's diversity and global reach. With a main event that could redefine the industry standards and a mid-card packed with technical masterpieces, the UBS Arena is set to witness history. From the hard-hitting strikes of the Strong Style warriors to the high-flying spectacle of AEW’s elite, every match offers something unique.
As the "Forbidden Door" swings wide open once again, fans are reminded why they fell in love with professional wrestling in the first place: the thrill of the unknown, the beauty of the struggle, and the joy of seeing the impossible become reality. Make sure to tune in, follow the results, and be part of a night that will be talked about for years to come. Whether Swerve Strickland remains king or Will Ospreay ascends to the throne, the real winners are the fans worldwide who get to witness this incredible assembly of talent.
Stay tuned for more updates, live results, and post-show analysis as we approach the biggest cross-promotional event of the year!
AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door Preview: Match Card, Start Time, How to Watch, More
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