All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is turning its weekly Dynamick program into a charitable fundraiser. On Wednesday, the promotion will tape a special “Rebel Heart” episode at the Akins Ford Arena in Athens, Georgia, with all proceeds directed to support Tanea Brooks, a former AEW talent now fighting amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Local community rallies around a beloved wrestler
Brooks, known in the ring as “Rebel,” announced her ALS diagnosis on May 1. In a heartfelt video, she explained that doctors have labeled her condition terminal and that the disease is rapidly affecting her mobility and speech. Despite the grim prognosis, she expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and urged fans to help raise awareness and money for research.
AEW owner Tony Khan, who also runs Ring of Honor, praised Brooks as a “great friend” and a “founding member of the AEW family.” He said the upcoming episode will honor her legacy and provide tangible assistance in the fight against this “terrible disease.” Khan added that even though Brooks has not appeared on television recently, she remains “in everyone’s hearts” and the company will keep her in its thoughts each week.
Star‑studded card promises high‑octane action
The “Rebel Heart” card features several marquee matchups designed to draw a wide audience. World Champion Will Ospreay will face David Finlay in an elimination bout for the AEW World Championship. Tag‑team action pits Darby Allin and Steven Borden against Mark Davis and Josh Alexander. The AEW World Trios Championship will be defended by Swerve Strickland, Kofi Kingston and Austin Creed against Orange Cassidy, Kyle O’Reily and Roderick Strong.
Women’s competition will also be highlighted, with a trios match featuring Maya World, Hyan and Thunder Rosa versus Persephone, Britt Baker and Hikaru Shida. The Young Bucks will square off against Kyle Fletcher and Kevin Knight in a tables match, adding further excitement for fans.
Beyond the ring: a segment for Brooks
Brooks is slated to appear alongside Britt Baker in a segment titled “The Waiting Room,” offering a personal glimpse into her journey and reinforcing the event’s charitable purpose. Fans can also purchase “Rebel Heart” T‑shirts and participate in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, both of which have already generated significant buzz across social media.
How the community can help
All proceeds from ticket sales, merchandise and donations during the broadcast will be funneled to ALS research and support services. Local businesses in Athens have joined the effort, displaying the “Rebel Heart” logo and encouraging patrons to contribute. The event underscores the wrestling world’s tradition of rallying around a cause when a member of its family faces hardship.
For those unable to attend in person, the special episode will be streamed live on AEW’s official platforms, ensuring a national audience can participate in the fundraiser. Viewers are encouraged to donate directly through the link provided during the broadcast.
Looking ahead
While the battle against ALS remains daunting, the “Rebel Heart” event exemplifies how sports entertainment can mobilize resources and compassion for a critical health issue. AEW’s commitment to Brooks reflects a broader cultural emphasis on community support, faith in perseverance, and the power of collective action.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
