Backstage Reason AEW WrestleDream Opened With Match Already in Progress – The AEW WrestleDream pay-per-view on October 18, 2025, kicked off in unusual fashion, beginning with FTR’s match already underway. The bout, which started during the Tailgate Brawl pre-show, carried over into the main broadcast as Cash Wheeler and Dax Harwood of FTR faced “Speedball” Mike Bailey and Kevin Knight of JetSpeed. FTR ultimately picked up the victory, but the timing of the match’s transition raised questions among fans about whether AEW had encountered scheduling issues.

However, according to a report from the Wrestling Observer, the decision was entirely intentional. Sources indicated that AEW deliberately structured the match to span both the pre-show and the main card, confirming that it was not the result of poor time management. The creative approach was designed to shake up the traditional pre-show formula, where matches typically conclude just before the pay-per-view begins.

The report explained that AEW wanted to “experiment with the format” by having the pre-show action flow directly into the PPV, adding unpredictability to the show’s opening moments. The move aimed to engage fans immediately as the event went live, rather than restarting with a cold open or video package.

Following their win, FTR remains one of AEW’s most prominent tag teams, continuing their pursuit of championship gold within the division. The company now shifts its focus toward its next major event, Full Gear, set for Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Backstage Reason AEW WrestleDream Opened With Match Already in Progress

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