2024 was a remarkable year for AEW. The company had a great year, bagging huge free agents and several former WWE stars. Alongside this, the promotion delivered some unforgettable storylines throughout the year. While the show had a low attendance problem, they continued to deliver high-quality pay-per-views and weekly shows.
Tony Khan also renewed his TV deal with the WBD network, which will allow the promotion to air Dynamite and Collision on Max. The first show on Max will be Dynamite: Fight for the Fallen, which will air on January 1, 2025.
Throughout the year, fans witnessed the rise and fall of many AEW stars. From its inception, Jon Moxley, Kenny Omega, Young Bucks, and many other names held the fort for the company. While many of these top stars were absent for the majority of 2024, new stars rose to the occasion and proved their worth. However, some of them couldn't couldn't get over with the crowd.
Let's take a look at some of the worst and best AEW names in 2024, as the company recently hosted its last show, Worlds End of the year, on Saturday.
Top name doesn't want to enter the WWE Hall of Fame. More details HERE.
#5. Best - Hangman Page
The Cowboy turned from a beloved star to one of the most infuriated characters in pro wrestling. His hate for Swerve Strickland was limitless. The latter tried to stop him from winning the AEW World Championship in early 2024. After Strickland won the title, he tried to earn an opportunity to challenge him. While that didn't happen, Hangman defeated him in a Lights Out contest at All Out.
During his feud with The Realest star, he cut several intense promos. He was a huge highlight of the year despite his losses against Jay White and several others.
#4. Worst - Kamille
The Brickhouse was deemed a massive free agent in early 2024. Fans were excited for her debut due to her impressive physique. She made her official AEW debut on July 24 as Mercedes Mone's henchwoman. From the start, she failed to captivate the audience and was criticized for her performances. After working beside the TBS Champion for four months, Kamille has been written off TV since November.
The 32-year-old star quit her alliance with Mercedes and is no longer featured on TV. Her future in the company is still uncertain, as she hasn't made any moves.
#3. Best - Swerve Strickland
The former AEW World Champion was one of the most talked about stars in the pro wrestling industry. After working hard in 2022 and 2023, he finally received a massive push and event captured the world title. Hangman Page played an integral part during his run.
Not only did Swerve Strickland improve his persona, but his matches also received high praise. His matches against Bryan Danielson, Will Ospreay, and Hangman were high points for AEW.
#2. Worst - Chris Jericho
The reigning ROH World Champion didn't have a great year. In early 2024, The Lionheart Chris Jericho tried to ally with Hook. It later turned into a rivalry during which the Nueve introduced 'The Learning Tree' gimmick. During the second half of 2024, he would annoy the crowd with his smile and say, 'Hi Guys.'
While the audience enjoyed it at first, they aren't a fan of it now. After a great run during the initial years, he should find a suitable role in 2025.
#1. AEW's Best - Will Ospreay
The Aerial Assassin has proved to be the best signing of 2024. He officially step foot in the company as a full-time performer in March 2024. Since then, he has delivered classic matches in almost every bout. His feuds with MJF and Kyle Fletcher were greatly applauded.
Will Ospreay's recent run in the Continental Classic tournament also included top-notch matches. Unfortunately, he failed to win the finals of the tournament against Kazuchika Okada.
It will be interesting to see which stars will improve in 2025 and will receive a huge push.