AEW Debuting Modified Stage Design on Dynamite to Kick Off 2026

AEW is set to kick off 2026 with a notable production update, as a modified stage design is planned for the January 7 edition of Dynamite. The new setup is expected to signal a reset for the company and present Dynamite with a sleeker, more visually ambitious look to start the new year.

The new stage features a curved upper LED screen spanning the ramp, supported by a full-width video wall at the back. Entrances no longer come from the sides as in previous setups—instead, they’re integrated directly through the middle, behind the screens. This enclosed visual approach gives AEW’s weekly programming a tighter, more cinematic feel.

Lighting effects, layered visuals, and widescreen graphics were on full display, adding extra production polish that clearly separates this 2026 presentation from AEW’s older layouts.

Confirmed for AEW Dynamite on January 7, 2026

• MJF returned to address title contenders
• Hangman Page and Swerve Strickland teamed in a Lights Out tag match against HOOK & Powerhouse Hobbs
• Bandido defended the ROH World Title against Sammy Guevara
• Jon Moxley faced Shelton Benjamin in a Continental Championship eliminator
• Jim Ross made his broadcast return
• Toni Storm squared off with Marina Shafir
• Willow Nightingale marked her second TBS Title reign
• JetSpeed and Jungle Jack Perry competed in tag action

This production shift, paired with an action-heavy card, sends a clear signal: AEW’s 2026 is all about stepping forward with a fresh identity and refined vision.

As a reminder, Ringside News will be providing live play-by-play coverage of tonight’s show over in our AEW Dynamite coverage hub.

What do you think about AEW’s new entrance design and stage layout? Does this feel like a major upgrade or are you more into the classic look? Drop your thoughts below and let us know where you stand.