AEW is making some big changes to its TV schedule in May 2026, and it looks like sports scheduling — especially the NHL playoffs — is a major reason behind it. With major hockey games happening at the same time, AEW has adjusted its shows to keep fans engaged without heavy competition.
AEW adjusts schedule due to NHL playoffs
As the race for the Stanley Cup Finals heats up, All Elite Wrestling has decided to tweak its weekly programming.
Since NHL playoff games often air in prime time, they can clash with wrestling shows. To avoid losing viewers, AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery have planned a new broadcast lineup for May.
Big change: Dynamite and Collision on same night
One of the biggest updates is that on select Wednesdays, AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision will air back-to-back.
This means:
- Dynamite will start at its usual time
- Collision will immediately follow it
- Fans will get nearly 3 hours of AEW action in one go
However, Collision’s second hour will sometimes shift to Saturdays at different timings.
Final April episode before changes begin
Before the new schedule starts, AEW will wrap up April with a strong episode.
The final April edition of Dynamite will take place at the EagleBank Arena.
Key matches include:
- Darby Allin defending the AEW World Championship against Brody King
- MJF challenging Kevin Knight for the TNT Title
Full AEW schedule for May 2026
Here’s a simple breakdown of AEW’s updated programming:
| Date | Show | Time (ET) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 2 (Sat) | Collision | 8 PM | Normal 2-hour show |
| May 6 (Wed) | Dynamite + Collision | 8 PM + 10 PM | Back-to-back shows |
| May 9 (Sat) | Collision Special | 8 PM | 1-hour “Fairway to Hell” |
| May 13 (Wed) | Dynamite | 8 PM | Regular show |
| May 16 (Sat) | Collision | 8 PM | Regular show |
| May 20 (Wed) | Dynamite + Collision | 8 PM + 10 PM | Back-to-back shows |
| May 23 (Sat) | Collision Special | 12 AM | “Countdown to Double or Nothing” |
| May 24 (Sun) | Double or Nothing | 7 PM (Zero Hour) | PPV event |
| May 27 (Wed) | Dynamite + Collision | 8 PM + 10 PM | Back-to-back shows |
| May 30 (Sat) | Collision | 8 PM | Likely 1-hour show |
AEW Double or Nothing: The main highlight
The biggest event of the month will be AEW Double or Nothing, scheduled for May 24.
- Zero Hour pre-show starts at 7 PM ET
- Main PPV begins at 8 PM ET
- Available on HBO Max and pay-per-view
This event is expected to feature major matches and storyline conclusions built over the past few months.
Why this schedule matters
These changes are not random. AEW is clearly trying to:
- Avoid clashes with NHL playoff games
- Keep TV ratings strong
- Give fans flexible viewing options
- Build strong momentum toward Double or Nothing
While some fans may find the schedule confusing at first, it also offers longer blocks of wrestling content on certain nights. AEW’s May 2026 schedule shows how much planning goes into balancing sports entertainment with other major events like the NHL playoffs.
By adjusting Dynamite and Collision timings, AEW is trying to stay competitive while still delivering exciting weekly shows. The back-to-back episodes may actually be a bonus for fans who enjoy longer wrestling nights.
With Double or Nothing as the final destination, these changes are all about building hype and keeping viewers hooked. If everything goes well, this strategy could help AEW maintain strong momentum during a busy sports season.
