As the curtain fell on The Motor City Machine Guns’ (MCMG) time with TNA Wrestling this past March, speculation has swirled around where the tag team’s future lies. Known for their groundbreaking performances and influence on the tag team landscape of the 21st century, Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley have captivated the wrestling world with their high-octane style and charismatic presence. Now, as they navigate their post-TNA journey, eyes are keenly watching their next career move.
The Current Status
After their departure from TNA, Sabin and Shelley have been active on the independent circuit, showcasing their talents both as a duo and in solo capacities. Their recent appearances have included facing each other in a competitive bout at Prestige Wrestling, underscoring their ongoing relevance and skill. Despite the high-profile nature of their exits and the buzz around their future, the tag team has yet to make any formal announcements regarding their next long-term destination.
The WWE Connection
Reports suggest that The Motor City Machine Guns may be leaning towards joining WWE. Dave Meltzer, in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, hinted that WWE is emerging as the likely landing spot for Sabin and Shelley. This sentiment is echoed by Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, who stated, “The feeling many have in wrestling is MCMG are going to WWE.” While Sapp clarified that no official confirmation has been made, the prevailing speculation suggests that WWE’s offer may have been more enticing compared to what AEW had on the table.
The allure of WWE is not surprising given the promotion’s history of nurturing top-tier tag teams and its expansive platform for global visibility. WWE’s track record of integrating influential talent into their roster could offer a substantial opportunity for MCMG to further solidify their legacy.
AEW’s Position
Despite strong indications towards WWE, AEW’s interest in the duo remains significant. AEW has been known for its emphasis on dynamic tag team wrestling, and The Motor City Machine Guns would be a fitting addition to its roster. However, a month ago, AEW sources reportedly indicated that the team had not yet signed with them, which could suggest ongoing negotiations or potential obstacles in finalizing the deal.
Sapp’s observation that “a lot of people on the indies are acting like they’re wrapping up but they’re still taking bookings” reinforces the notion that while there’s heavy speculation, nothing is set in stone. This could also mean that MCMG are strategically positioning themselves to maximize their leverage in negotiations, a tactic not uncommon in professional wrestling.
Independent Appearances and Future Plans
Even as the speculation about their next move continues, Sabin and Shelley are keeping busy on the independent circuit. They have confirmed bookings with Absolute Intense Wrestling on August 1 in Cleveland, coinciding with WWE’s SummerSlam festivities in the same city. They are also scheduled to face AEW’s Evil Uno and former AEW star Stu Grayson at SMASH Wrestling on August 18. These appearances underscore their continued relevance and ability to draw crowds, keeping fans and promotions alike on their toes.
The Bigger Picture
The future of The Motor City Machine Guns remains one of the most intriguing stories in professional wrestling today. Their next move could significantly impact both WWE and AEW’s tag team divisions. For WWE, securing MCMG would represent a major boost in their tag team landscape, offering fresh matchups and marquee attractions. For AEW, losing out on the duo might leave a notable gap in their tag team lineup, though their existing roster remains formidable.
What Lies Ahead
As fans and insiders await confirmation of where Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley will land, the wrestling world remains abuzz with anticipation. Whether they join WWE or AEW, The Motor City Machine Guns’ next chapter promises to be a pivotal moment in the tag team wrestling scene, further cementing their status as legends in the industry.
