AEW is well aware of fan backlash to the ongoing storyline with the Death Riders and has reportedly been aware of the criticism for some time.

On a recent edition of “The Hump” podcast, Sean Ross Sapp was asked about the backstage response to fans taking issue with the angle. He said,

“They’re aware of the criticisms—they are definitely aware and have been for a while. They also knew that many assumed Darby was going to win the title upon returning, but they said that’s not necessarily set in stone. That’s not necessarily what’s happening either. That was discussed backstage—it was absolutely discussed. But they’re aware.”

Many have taken issue with the angle, arguing that while the group plans to ‘reshape AEW’ the actual motivations behind the faction remain unclear.

Some have taken issue with the group recently aligning with the Learning Tree, believing that this goes against the Death Riders’ focus on serious wrestling.

Others believe the group is an example of AEW’s heavy reliance on factions and follows on from the Inner Circle, Blackpool Combat Club, The Patriarchy, and others.

On this week’s AEW Dynamite, Jon Moxley agreed to defend the AEW World Championship against Cope at next month’s Revolution pay-per-view event.