Soon after their first appearance in AEW, the Grizzled Young Veterans suggest fans will see them again in an AEW ring.
The team of James Drake and Zack Gibson, who achieved fame as the NXT UK Tag Team Champions, introduced themselves to the AEW audience on April 27 during AEW Collision, where they were defeated by The Acclaimed. Despite the loss, the prospects of their return appear high.
AEW posted on Twitter a video clip capturing the Grizzled Young Veterans’ reaction post-match.
Zack Gibson: Do we look like we want an interview right now? Are you ill? We are Grizzled Young Veterans. Any man and their dog that was watching that match knows that the better team lost. The only reason, the only single, solitary reason why we lost tonight is because of Billy Gunn, a man that wasn’t even supposed to be out there. We have conquered all of Europe, and we are never gonna stop.
James Drake: So The Acclaimed, Billy Gunn, in fact, the whole AEW roster, this isn’t the last time you’re gonna see the GYV. So remember this, when you see us coming, grit your teeth.
Having parted ways with WWE in October 2023 after the expiration of their contracts, Gibson and Drake have since engaged with TNA and maintained an active presence on the independent wrestling circuit.
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FAQ About Grizzled Young Veterans and Their AEW Debut
Q: Who are the Grizzled Young Veterans?
A: The Grizzled Young Veterans are a professional wrestling tag team consisting of James Drake and Zack Gibson, formerly NXT UK Tag Team Champions.
Q: Did the Grizzled Young Veterans win their AEW debut match?
A: No, they were defeated by The Acclaimed in their debut match on AEW Collision.
Q: Will the Grizzled Young Veterans return to AEW?
A: Based on their comments after the match, the Grizzled Young Veterans have hinted at a return, expressing a determination to be seen again in the promotion.
Q: Why did Grizzled Young Veterans lose their debut match?
A: According to Zack Gibson, their loss was solely due to the interference of Billy Gunn, who was not supposed to be at ringside.
Q: What have Grizzled Young Veterans done since leaving WWE?
A: Since their departure from WWE, they have competed in TNA and have been active in the independent wrestling scene.
Conclusion
The Grizzled Young Veterans’ debut in All Elite Wrestling may not have resulted in a victory, but their presence and the post-match declaration clearly indicate they are far from finished with AEW. It’s evident that James Drake and Zack Gibson have their sights set on making a significant impact within the promotion and are not deterred by this initial setback. Fans can eagerly anticipate their return to AEW, where the Grizzled Young Veterans aim to continue their conquest, previously seen across Europe, in a new wrestling landscape.