Sting’s in-ring career felt like a closed book after his final match at AEW Double or Nothing this past spring, a retirement that has been presented as a genuine finale. That made his appearance after the September 11 AEW Collision taping a genuine treat for the live crowd in Philadelphia.
Once the cameras stopped rolling at the historic 2300 Arena, Tony Khan orchestrated a tribute to the late “Hot Stuff” Eddie Gilbert. After bringing out Doug Gilbert, Tommy Rich, and Jeff Jarrett, Khan introduced a final surprise: “The Icon” himself, in full face paint and gear.
Sting explained to the audience the pivotal role Eddie Gilbert played in his career. During their time in Bill Watts’ Mid-South/UWF territory, it was Gilbert who first saw main event babyface potential in the young Sting and gave him one of his first major breaks.
The tribute carried a heavy layer of wrestling history. Not only has Sting himself never wrestled in the famous Philadelphia venue, but the segment highlighted a fascinating fact: Gilbert’s dismissal as the original booker for Eastern Championship Wrestling by Tod Gordon directly led to the hiring of his young protégé, Paul Heyman, who would ultimately transform the promotion into a phenomenon.
This untelevised moment, likely to remain a special experience for the Philly crowd, raises a compelling question. With his “Now or Never” tour ending this year, these rare appearances in full gear serve as a potent reminder of how Sting will curate his legacy outside of the ring, making each sighting a must-see piece of living history.
After Collision went off the air, Sting made his first-ever appearance at the legendary ECW Arena – FIRST TIME EVER… IT’S STING!!!#AEW #AEWCollision pic.twitter.com/VbxHKKBG1i
— FG (@gascaf88) September 12, 2025