Casino Gauntlet shakes up AEW Women’s World title scene with return, new alliance

This year, AEW’s Beach Break episode of Dynamite got one of the company’s Casino Gauntlet matches in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This one was to decide who would challenge AEW Women’s World champion Thekla at Redemption on July 26, and ended up changing the outlook for the scene through All In at Wembley a month later. And probably beyond, too. Wednesday’s (July 8) Casino Gauntlet started with Maya World’s latest chance to shock the world. She started with the wrestler she upset to reach the Owen Cup final, Ring of Honor forever Women’s champ Athena. They did so with Thekla on commentary, and Owen Cup winner Mercedes Moné seated on the beach-themed stage. #2 Entrant @MayaWorldd is looking for redemption of her own in the Casino Gauntlet! Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/TFJk1QUkfj — All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) July 9, 2026 Commentary reminded us the Casino Gauntlet could end at any time with a pinfall, but the ring did fill up with several others before the fin