AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2026: Updated Card
The fifth annual Forbidden Door is heading to the West Coast for the first time, bringing together the biggest stars from AEW, NJPW, CMLL, and STARDOM live from the SAP Center in San Jose.
This stacked card features high-stakes tournament finals, dream cross-promotional matchups, and a massive Steel Cage grudge match with World Title implications.
Check out the updated lineup after tonight’s Dynamite.
AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2026
Men's Owen Hart Cup Final: Will Ospreay vs. Swerve Strickland (Winner earns an AEW World Championship match at All In)
Two of AEW’s premier athletes collide in what could steal the show. Ospreay, the Aerial Assassin with NJPW roots, brings unparalleled athleticism and high-flying innovation. Swerve Strickland, a former World Champion known for his vicious striking and versatility, is a proven main-eventer.
This feels like a dream match that could define the next era of AEW’s top stars. Expect flips, strikes, and near-falls galore.
Women's Owen Hart Cup Final: TBA vs. TBA (Winner earns an AEW Women's World Championship match at All In)
The women’s bracket has delivered fireworks throughout the tournament. With powerhouse performers and rising talents still in contention, this final promises intensity, technical mastery, and emotional storytelling. The victor heads into All In with massive momentum.
Kenny Omega vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
A pure wrestling clinic is guaranteed. Kenny Omega, the “Best Bout Machine” and multi-time champion, returns with his signature explosiveness and charisma. Zack Sabre Jr., the NJPW technical wizard and current IWGP World Heavyweight Champion (or recent holder), is one of the finest grapplers on the planet.
This rematch/reminder of their classic chemistry is a must-see for any wrestling purist.
Steel Cage Match: Mark Briscoe and 5 TBA vs. MJF and Don Callis Family (Kevin Knight and 4 TBA). If Briscoe’s team wins, Mark Briscoe earns an AEW World Championship match against MJF).
This is the marquee grudge match of the night. AEW World Champion MJF has aligned with the cunning Don Callis Family (including Kevin Knight and others), while Mark Briscoe leads a squad featuring Conglomeration allies and potential NJPW reinforcements like Tomohiro Ishii.
The Steel Cage ensures no escape and maximum chaos—think weapons, high-risk spots, and personal vendettas. Briscoe is fighting for respect and a title shot, while MJF aims to prove he’s untouchable.
Potential Undercard & Speculation
While the above represents the confirmed/updated core, expect a loaded Zero Hour pre-show and additional matches including:
NJPW stars challenging for AEW gold or vice versa.
Trios or tag team dream matches blending factions.
Possible involvement from CMLL and STARDOM talent for international flavor.
Forbidden Door always delivers surprises, returns, and title implications.
