Speedball Mike Bailey Ready to Move On After Kevin Knight Betrayal in AEW

Speedball Mike Bailey says it’s time to close the chapter on his rivalry with Kevin Knight and look ahead to what comes next in his AEW career.

The two men had formed a tag team before Knight turned on Bailey earlier this year, a betrayal that left Bailey navigating a difficult stretch as a singles competitor. Now, Bailey has indicated he’s done dwelling on the split and is focused on moving forward rather than remaining defined by the fallout from that partnership.

Bailey has long been one of the more technically gifted and fan-favorite performers on the AEW roster, known for his high-flying, kick-heavy style that earned him a devoted following during his time in TNA and on the independent circuit before signing with AEW. The tag team with Knight had given him a different dynamic, and Knight’s heel turn created a natural feud — but Bailey’s comments suggest he’s eager to establish a new direction rather than continue circling the same program.

The move makes sense from a storytelling standpoint. Prolonged post-breakup rivalries can run their course quickly, and with Bailey signaling a fresh start, AEW has an opportunity to rebuild him as a compelling singles act heading into the second half of 2026. Where he lands next on the card remains to be seen, but Bailey’s willingness to publicly draw a line under the Knight situation suggests the next phase of his AEW run could be taking shape sooner rather than later.