Tony Schiavone’s absence from AEW Dynamite last Wednesday night was due to a personal family matter, not any professional issue as some fans speculated, according to the Wrestling Observer.
Schiavone was noticeably absent from the commentary booth during the live broadcast of Dynamite from Clarksville, Tennessee. Ian Riccaboni and Matt Menard filled in alongside Excalibur, who briefly mentioned that Schiavone was “on assignment,” sparking speculation among viewers. Some fans wondered whether Schiavone’s absence was linked to his recent tweet directed at NJPW commentator Chris Charlton, which was later deleted. However, The Observer’s Dave Meltzer quickly clarified that there was no disciplinary action involved.
On *Wrestling Observer Radio*, Meltzer explained, “It wasn’t anything major. When people saw Tony wasn’t there, I started getting messages asking if he’d been suspended for that tweet. But it’s not true. It was just a family matter, and he’ll be back soon. Everything’s fine. It’s nothing to worry about. He missed one show, and he’s expected to return, probably by Saturday.”
Meltzer also gave an update on Charlton, revealing that he’s currently on an “indefinite hiatus” from NJPW following some controversial comments he made about AEW during the Wrestle Dynasty event at the Tokyo Dome. The event featured talent from AEW, NJPW, Stardom, CMLL, and ROH, and Charlton’s remarks sparked some backlash.
In response to Charlton’s comments, Schiavone had posted a pointed tweet (which he later removed) that read: “Hey [Chris Charlton], speaking for all of us in AEW, GFY. And speaking for all of us who have been around you, take a shower once in a while.”
We’ll keep you updated on this story.
