AEW WrestleDream: 9 big takeaways for Clockwork Carnage, Ilja Dragunov's future, what's next and more

1. AEW's WrestleDream 2026 featured chaotic championship carnage, with "Speedball" Mike Bailey being defeated first and Kazuchika Okada surprisingly eliminating Konosuke Takeshita. The second phase of the match was intense, with the lead changing hands numerous times within seconds. Ospreay closed out the main event by using a Hidden Blade on Adam Copeland to retain his Men's World Championship. The match highlighted the clock-like urgency of the competition.

2. Mercedes Moné successfully defended her AEW Women's World Championship against Thekla in a match filled with mat wrestling, intensity, and storytelling. Moné used her mask as an advantage and secured the pinfall with the Moné Maker. The match showcased Moné's position at the top of the women's division, but her future is uncertain as she awaits a challenger.

3. Jon Moxley delivered a technical and emotional performance against Kevin Ottley in a tough battle. Moxley, who is a key player in AEW, continued to put on performances that blend genuine emotion with evocative storytelling. The match had both men heavily bleeding at the end, but Moxley's determination to continue fighting stood out.

4. Ilja Dragunov made his debut in AEW at WrestleDream 2026. The Ukrainian wrestler has a proven track record and is expected to make a significant impact on the promotion. Fans are eager to see Dragunov face off against Moxley in the near future, as the two have a history of intense battles.

5. In a trios match, "Hangman" Adam Page defeated Swerve Strickland and claimed the titles. The match featured all six world title contenders, with Austin Creed playing a crucial role by carrying the action for his team. The feud between Page and Strickland remains a critical storyline in the wrestling world.