Former WWE Superstar To Make AEW In-Ring Debut
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Zach Gowen, known for his inspiring WWE run as the first one-legged professional wrestler, is set to make his official in-ring debut for All Elite Wrestling. He will face "The One and Only" Ricochet at the upcoming AEW Dynamite: Beach Break special on May 14, 2025.
This highly match follows a recent shocking incident on AEW Collision. Gowen, who was in attendance with his family, was brutally attacked by Ricochet, who callously used Gowen's prosthetic leg as a weapon.
In response to the controversial assault, AEW President Tony Khan announced on X (formerly Twitter) that Gowen would receive an opportunity for retribution. This Dynamite: Beach Break encounter will mark Gowen's first wrestling match since October 2024.
This Wednesday, May 14
Chicago, IL
8pm ET/7pm CT, on TBS + Max
Wednesday Night #AEWDynamite
Beach Break@KingRicochet vs @ZachGowen
After Ricochet assaulted Zach Gowen in front of his family on #AEWCollision tonight,
they'll fight 1-on-1 at Beach Break Dynamite THIS WEDNESDAY! pic.twitter.com/EPGNbnKDmH — Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) May 9, 2025
Gowen's journey in wrestling is remarkable, having overcome childhood cancer, which led to the amputation of his left leg. He first captured mainstream attention during his memorable, albeit brief, tenure with WWE in 2003-2004.
His WWE debut on SmackDown in May 2003 was unforgettable; introduced as a fan, he came to the aid of Mr. America (Hulk Hogan) during an attack by "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and Sean O'Haire. The segment famously saw Piper remove Gowen's prosthetic leg, instantly establishing his courageous character.
TOKYO,JAPAN - JUNE 29: Ricochet and Cesaro compete during the WWE Live Tokyo at Ryogoku Kokugikan on June 29, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan.
TOKYO,JAPAN - JUNE 29: Ricochet and Cesaro compete during the WWE Live Tokyo at Ryogoku Kokugikan on June 29, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan.More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation
This led to a prominent storyline where Gowen allied with Mr. America against Vince McMahon. He notably refused to join Mr. McMahon's "Kiss My Ass Club," culminating in a singles match between them at the Vengeance pay-per-view in July 2003.
Gowen also "earned" his WWE contract by teaming with Stephanie McMahon to defeat The Big Show in a unique handicap match, with assistance from Kurt Angle and then-WWE Champion Brock Lesnar. During his time, he also faced Lesnar in a series of intense, one-sided encounters that highlighted Lesnar's dominance.
Despite facing other top stars like Matt Hardy and John Cena, WWE released Gowen in February 2004. He has since attributed his short run to immaturity at the time, though he left an indelible mark as an inspirational figure.
Now, years later, Gowen steps back onto a major national stage in AEW. His match against the high-flying Ricochet is part of a loaded Dynamite: Beach Break card.
The same show will also feature AEW World Champion Jon Moxley defending against Samoa Joe in a steel cage match. Additionally, Will Ospreay will team with "Hangman" Adam Page against Konosuke Takeshita and Josh Alexander, and a Women's World Title eliminator four-way will occur.
The wrestling world will be keenly watching as Zach Gowen seeks redemption against Ricochet. It remains to be seen if the veteran can overcome the aggressive tactics of his opponent in this deeply personal AEW debut.
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