Announcer Placed On “Indefinite Hiatus” Following Anti-AEW Comments

The relationship between NJPW and AEW has hit another speed bump.

On January 5th, AEW again joined forces with NJPW for the huge cross-promotional show Wrestle Dynasty. The event, which also featured talent from ROH, Stardom, and CMLL came just 24 hours after Wrestle Kingdom and was headlined by the bout between Zack Sabre Jr. and Ricochet.

However, the biggest match on the show saw Kenny Omega defeat Gabe Kidd in his first in-ring action in 13 months. Omega had been out of action since being diagnosed with diverticulitis in December 2023. It was later revealed that the illness almost cost Omega his life.

While the chaos in the ring earned praise across the board, Chris Charlton’s work on commentary proved much more divisive. In leaning into the AEW vs. NJPW angle, Charlton made a series of derogatory comments about Tony Khan and several of his top stars.

Following the event, Dave Meltzer claimed people were “very unhappy” with Chris Charlton, especially his comments about Khan. And now it seems those comments have come at a significant cost.

Chris Charlton Removed For Anti-AEW Remarks

In an update on social media, Dave Meltzer reported that Charlton has now been put on an indefinite hiatus.

Chris Charlton is on an indefinite hiatus from commentary due to his anti-AEW comments during the Dynasty show.

While the situation appears to signal a strain in the relationship between AEW and NJPW, Konosuke Takeshita announced he’s now representing New Japan Pro-Wrestling after his recent wins at the Tokyo Dome. At Wrestle Kingdom 19 the star defeated Shingo Takagi to claim the NEVER Openweight Title before defending it against Tomohiro Ishii at Wrestle Dynasty.

It has been reported by Fightful Select that Charlton’s suspension will last for about two months.