Rebel made an emotional return to AEW Dynamite programming on the September 9, 2026 episode, reuniting with Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. to bring back The Waiting Room segment.
The broadcast served as a special benefit show titled Rebel Heart Dynamite, dedicated to supporting ALS research and honoring Rebel (Tanea Brooks) following her ALS diagnosis earlier this year.
The Return Of “The Waiting Room”
Rebel opened the show by introducing the segment and bringing Baker to the stage. In a classic callback to their longtime pairing, Baker repeatedly referred to Rebel as “Reba,” prompting playful corrections from Rebel throughout the segment. Baker praised Rebel’s incredible strength and spirit before bringing out their special guests.
- Persephone Joins the Segment: Newly crowned TBS Champion Persephone thanked Baker for helping her save the AEW women’s division.
- Hikaru Shida Enters: Former AEW Women’s World Champion Hikaru Shida referenced her extensive history with both Baker and Rebel, stating that despite their past battles, she hated Maya World far more.
The segment concluded with Baker, Shida, and Persephone embracing in solidarity ahead of their scheduled trios bout later in the evening.
Ringside Interference & Lockjaw Victory
Rebel made a second appearance during the main card action, coming down to ringside during the trios match pitting Baker, Shida, and Persephone against Maya World, Hyan, and Thunder Rosa.
Receiving a massive ovation from the crowd, Rebel rolled to the apron and handed Baker her signature glove. Moments later, Baker locked Hyan into the Lockjaw to secure the submission victory for her team.
AEW partnered with organizations such as I AM ALS and Team Gleason for the broadcast, with all proceeds from custom “Rebel Heart” merchandise going directly toward ALS research and patient support.
Badrose Thorns
Seeing Rebel back on AEW television and getting such a passionate response from the crowd was easily the highlight of Dynamite. AEW handled the ‘Rebel Heart’ tribute night with complete class, and bringing back ‘The Waiting Room’ was the perfect way to honor her contributions to the product. Integrating her seamlessly into the finish of Britt’s match added a touch of nostalgia that made an already emotional night feel truly special.
Rebel appeared at ease and smiling throughout the segments she was involved in, only to burst into tears alongside Britt Baker while driving her up the ramp—marking what was perhaps the final joyful moment of her life. It was a deeply touching and moving moment that wrestling fans will long remember.
Thank you, Rebel.
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