AEW: Backstage Update on Deonna Purrazzo AEW Contract Status & Reason for Abscense on AEW TV, Mike Bennett on Reaching 8 Years Sober from Pain Killers, New Partnership Deal with American Association of Professional Baseball

Backstage Update on Deonna Purrazzo AEW Contract Status & Reason for Abscense on AEW TV

Deonna Purrazzo has been absent from AEW programming since this past February and last competed for Ring of Honor this past June.

Fightful Select reported that their sources stated that Purrazzo’s current contract with AEW runs through 2026. It was reported that Purrazzo had signed a three-year deal with the company that is currently set to expire at the start of 2027.

It was reported that those spoken to stated that the reason why Purrazzo has not been featured heavily on television of late is due to a combination of injuries to other talent causing a delay in the plans for the start of the ROH Women’s Pure Championship tournament. It was reported that this had caused a domino effect that ended up affecting Purrazzo’s booking in AEW and ROH.

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Mike Bennett Comments on Reaching 8 Years Sober from Pain Killers

AEW and Ring of Honor talent Mike Bennett reflected on Twitter about last week being the eight anniversary of him being sober from pain killers.

“Last week was my 8 year anniversary of being clean of pain killers. I totally forgot about it. I was visiting my parents in Massachusetts with my kids and it never crossed my mind. I said to Maria “I think it’s a good thing that I didn’t remember”. My struggles back then will always be a part of me but I refuse to let it define me. I wish I could say the past 8 years have been sunshine and bliss but that would be a lie. I’m in a much better place but life will always do what life does. In the last 8 years I’ve lost my job twice, had 2 kids with a third on the way, my wife was in and out of the hospital w a tumor, moved the family to Tennessee. Lots of stress. Lots of love. Lots of tears. Lots of laughs. I’m proud of the man I’ve become and the man I continue to grow into. Lord knows I’m not perfect but everyday I become a little bit better. I love everyone who’s been on this journey with me. Thank you. 🙏🏻”

Last week was my 8 year anniversary of being clean of pain killers. I totally forgot about it. I was visiting my parents in Massachusetts with my kids and it never crossed my mind. I said to Maria “I think it’s a good thing that I didn’t remember”. My struggles back then will…

— Mike Bennett (@RealMikeBennett) July 21, 2025

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New Partnership Deal with American Association of Professional Baseball

AEW announced that they have recently signed a partnership deal with the American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) for AEW stars to make appearances at AAPB stadiums for games festivities this month.

Official press release:

American Association of Professional Baseball Launch will host All Elite Wrestling for Summer Ballpark Tour Featuring AEW Stars live in stadiums

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) are joining forces to bring an electrifying mix of professional baseball and wrestling entertainment to fans across the country this summer. AEW talent will make in-person appearances at AAPB stadiums as part of a multi-market activation blending America’s pastime with one of the most dynamic forces in global sports entertainment.

AEW stars will participate in VIP first pitches, live game broadcast interviews, in-stadium autograph and photo sessions, help lead the 7th inning stretch alongside team emcees, and deliver other exhilarating moments throughout the stadiums. These ballpark experiences are designed to create unforgettable moments for fans of all ages.

“This partnership is about creating energy and excitement showcasing the American Association not as just a great baseball experience, but a great entertainment experience,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “AEW is one of the most recognizable brands in sports entertainment, and bringing their talent into our ballparks adds another layer of fun and fan engagement to the AAPB experience. It’s bold, it’s different, and it’s a perfect fit for how we see the future of live sports.”

The 2025 AEW x AAPB ballpark tour includes:

July 12 – Cleburne, TX (Cleburne Railroaders): WWE Hall of Famer and AEW star Jeff Jarrett

July 21 and 22 – Fargo, ND (American Association All Star Game: WWE Hall of Famer and AEW star Jeff Jarrett along with AEW star Wheeler Yuta

July 24 – Geneva, IL (Kane County Cougars): AEW stars Jay Lethal and Satnam Singh Bhamara

July 24 – Gary, IN (Gary SouthShore RailCats): The Outrunners

“We’re excited to partner with the American Association and bring AEW’s powerhouse roster directly to fans in some of the most passionate baseball markets in the country,” said Chris Terranova, Vice President of Consumer Products at AEW. “These appearances are about more than just a moment, they’re about connecting with communities, giving back to fans, and creating memories that blend the action of the ring with the magic of the diamond.”

All activations will be featured across AAPB broadcasts and social media platforms.

For tickets and more information, visit aabaseball.com or that above team’s websites.