MJF was one of the most notable absences from this week’s AEW Dynamite in Pittsburgh, especially since the show was dedicated entirely to the memory of PAC.
The episode featured several tributes to Benjamin Satterley, as well as Bryan Danielson’s return to the ring for the first time since 2024. MJF, however, did not take part in the broadcast.
According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider, there is a fairly simple explanation for the absence. In Johnson’s view, bringing MJF back just for the tribute would not fit his on-screen character, particularly since MJF has been off television while awaiting his next storyline.
“That would be very ‘out of character’ for the MJF that is portrayed on AEW programming.”
MJF’s last appearance on an AEW show came at All In: London on August 30, when he competed in the Casino Gauntlet Match won by Andrade El Idolo. Three days later, AEW aired a promo on Dynamite that MJF had recorded after the pay-per-view. In it, he blamed his recent troubles on Will Ospreay and vowed to get his revenge when it is least expected.
MJF had already spent time away from television over the summer. In July, Tony Khan revealed that MJF was dealing with some injuries after competing hurt for part of 2026. He returned in August and was able to compete normally at All In.
AEW has not officially announced when MJF will return to television.