Austin Aries

Solwold began training under Eddie Sharkey and Terry Fox in 2000 and debuted on November 11, 2000, facing "Sheriff" Johnny Emerald.{{cite web |url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/a/austin-aries.html |title=Austin Aries |access-date=February 27, 2009 |publisher=Online World of Wrestling}} He wrestled in the midwest for several years before his east coast wrestling career was jumpstarted after he progressed to the finals of the 2004 ECWA Super 8 Tournament, where he was defeated by Christopher Daniels.

From there, he joined Ring of Honor. Aries made his ROH main show debut at ROH: Reborn Stage 2 on April 24, 2004. Aries was unsuccessful, however, losing a four corner survival match also involving Jimmy Rave, Rocky Romero, and the winner, Nigel McGuinness.{{cite web |url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event |title=ROH: Reborn Stage 2- Chicago Ridge, IL 4/24/04 |date=April 24, 2004 |access-date=April 7, 2012 |publisher=Ring of Honor |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event |archive-date=March 22, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}} Aries was scheduled to return at the show of May 22, Generation Next, to compete in a one night series which would showcase young, upcoming ROH talent. Alex Shelley, however, hand-picked Aries, along with Roderick Strong and Jack Evans, as members of a new stable (also meant to promote young, upcoming ROH talent) who, instead of earning their spots, would simply take them. The group took the name Generation Next as their own.

Aries captured the ROH World Championship at Final Battle 2004 on December 26, 2004, by defeating the longest reigning ROH World Champion Samoa Joe.{{cite web |url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event |title=Final Battle 2004– Philadelphia, PA 12/26/04 |date=December 26, 2004 |access-date=April 7, 2012 |publisher=Ring of Honor |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event |archive-date=March 22, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}} On June 16, 2005, Ring of Honor named Aries the new head trainer at the ROH wrestling school, replacing the former head trainer, CM Punk, who had agreed to a contract with World Wrestling Entertainment.{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2005/1118957202.shtml |title=Austin Aries named new trainer of ROH Wrestling School; replaces Punk |access-date=August 23, 2010 |last=Bauer |first=Ben |date=June 16, 2005 |work=WrestleView}} After a six-month string of non-stop defenses, many of which were international, Aries lost the championship to CM Punk on June 18, 2005.{{cite web |url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event |title=Death Before Dishonor III- Morristown, NJ 6/18/05 |date=June 18, 2005 |access-date=April 7, 2012 |publisher=Ring of Honor |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event |archive-date=March 22, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}}

On December 17 at Final Battle 2005, Aries teamed with Strong to defeat Sal Rinauro and Tony Mamaluke for the ROH World Tag Team Championship.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Final Battle 2005– Edison, NJ 12/17/05|date=December 17, 2005|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} The two then disbanded Generation Next on June 3, 2006. In a first time ever match, Aries took on Pro Wrestling Noah wrestler KENTA on June 24, but was defeated following KENTA's Go 2 Sleep.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Chi Town Struggle- Chicago Ridge, IL 6/24/06|date=June 24, 2006|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

On September 16, he and his partner Strong lost the ROH World Tag Team Championship to The Kings of Wrestling (Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli).{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Glory By Honor V Night 2- New York, NY 9/16/06|date=September 16, 2006|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} Aries and Strong continued to team together for the rest of the year. At Battle of the Icons on January 27, 2007, Aries and Strong teamed up with Jack Evans to defeat Davey Richards, Delirious and SHINGO.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Battle Of The Icons- Edison, NJ 1/27/07|date=January 27, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} This apparent Generation Next reunion was short lived when, at the following show on February 16, Strong attacked Aries after their tag team title match against Christopher Daniels and Matt Sydal.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Fifth Year Festival: NYC- New York, NY 2/16/07|date=February 16, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} Strong then formed the "No Remorse Corps" with Davey Richards. Jack Evans ran down and pulled Strong off Aries, but refused to side with either of them. The following night, Aries called out Strong twice, but was unable to get his hands on him. When Evans refused to side with him, Aries said he was going to form a new faction with members of the next generation of wrestling. With that, he formed "The Resilience" with Erick Stevens and Matt Cross.

On April 27, Aries unsuccessfully challenged Takeshi Morishima for the Ring of Honor World Championship.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=The Battle Of St. Paul- St. Paul, MN 4/27/07|date=April 27, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} On May 4, 2007, Ring of Honor announced on their website that they had signed a pay-per-view deal with G-Funk Sports and Entertainment.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/05/10/4169930.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130115085306/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/05/10/4169930.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=January 15, 2013|title=ROH goes pay per view|date=May 10, 2007|last=Clevett|first=Jason|access-date=March 23, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} Following the announcement, TNA pulled Aries and Homicide, both under contracts with TNA, from all Ring of Honor shows.

In July 2005, Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) held an Internet poll to select an opponent for the TNA X Division Champion Christopher Daniels at their August 14 pay-per-view, Sacrifice. Billed as an "Internet dream match", the poll offered voters the choice of Aries, Roderick Strong, Jay Lethal and Matt Sydal, none of whom were contracted to TNA or had even appeared with the company on a regular basis in the past. Aries won the poll by a landslide, and thus faced Daniels in a non-title match at Sacrifice, which he lost.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2005/08/15/1174128.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629113656/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2005/08/15/1174128.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=TNA makes a great Sacrifice|date=August 15, 2005|last=LaCroix|first=Corey David|access-date=March 23, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} Following the event, it was rumored that TNA officials had been impressed by Aries and were considering offering him a contract, and these rumors were seemingly substantiated when Aries faced and defeated Roderick Strong at Unbreakable on September 11 in a "showcase match".{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2005/09/12/1213460.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629113658/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2005/09/12/1213460.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Unbreakable an astounding PPV|date=September 12, 2005|last=LaCroix|first=Corey David|access-date=March 23, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}

File:Austinstarr.jpg

On September 22, 2005, Aries announced on his website that he had received a contract offer from TNA, and intended to sign it. He became a regular member of the TNA roster, and formed a stable with Roderick Strong and Alex Shelley. Many fans referred to this group as the second coming of Generation Next, which had contained Shelley, Strong, Aries, and Jack Evans in Ring of Honor.

In February 2006, he and Strong were both suspended for two months for arriving four hours late for the pay-per-view Against All Odds. This occurred because of Aries and Strong's decision to remain in Long Island for an ROH show, despite TNA's last minute request to travel to Florida because of the potential of a snowstorm.{{cite news|first=Hicks|last=Brady|title=2006: The year in wrestling|work=PWI Presents: 2007 Wrestling Almanac and book of facts|publisher=Kappa Publications|id=2007 Edition|pages=17–18}}

In the build-up to Bound for Glory, promos began to air advertising the debut of a new wrestler, Austin Starr, at the event with the slogan "A Starr is Born". Starr appeared for TNA on October 22 as the first entrant and became the winner of the "Kevin Nash Open Invitational X Division Gauntlet Battle Royal" at Bound for Glory.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/10/23/2104975.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629205829/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/10/23/2104975.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Sting new champ after Bound For Glory|date=October 23, 2006|last=Sokol|first=Chris|access-date=March 23, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} After the match, Kevin Nash presented Starr with a bowling trophy and a hug.

On the following episode of Impact!, it was announced that Starr would work closely with Nash's group Paparazzi Productions, much to the dismay of one of the group's founders, Alex Shelley. Starr replaced Johnny Devine as a member of Paparazzi Productions and participated in the Paparazzi Championship Series along with Shelley, eventually losing to Shelley in the finals at Final Resolution 2007.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/01/15/3383190.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120730091633/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/01/15/3383190.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 30, 2012|title=Cage, Angle on top after Final Resolution|date=January 15, 2007|last=Sokol|first=Chris|access-date=March 23, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} Starr then went on to feud with Senshi.

On April 18, 2007, Starr was suspended for ninety days.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlingobserver.com/wo/news/headlines/default.asp?aID=19283|title=WON/F4W — WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, UFC News, UFC results}} On May 7 it was reported by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that the suspension stemmed from TNA asking Austin to tape promo vignettes on a day he believed to be his day off. Starr did ultimately agree to do the vignettes but TNA saw this as a bad attitude and was reason for his suspension. During the suspension, Aries requested, and was granted, his release from TNA.

One month after being granted his release from TNA, Aries made his return to Ring of Honor. At United We Stand on June 22, 2007, Aries was in attendance, but as a "fan". During a match between the No Remorse Corps and The Resilience, he was verbally called out by Roderick Strong. Aries tried to climb over the guard rail, but was held back by security as he was no longer employed by the company. The following night, at Driven, Aries was again in attendance. Following a six-man tag team match between the No Remorse Corps and Delirious and The Resilience, Aries ran through the crowd and attacked the NRC. He then signed an ROH contract in the ring.

Aries' first match back came at Race to the Top Tournament: Night One, when he faced Roderick Strong, Jimmy Rave and Gran Akuma in a Four Way Fray for the FIP World Heavyweight Championship.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Race To The Top Tournament Night 1- Deer Park, NY 7/27/07|date=July 27, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} The feud between The Resilience and the No Remorse Corps continued at ROH's Death before Dishonor V weekend. The first night, Aries teamed with Erick Stevens to defeat Roderick Strong and Rocky Romero.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Death Before Dishonor V- Night 1- Boston, MA 8/10/07|date=August 10, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} However, they were not as lucky the following night, when they, along with Delirious, lost in a Street Fight to the No Remorse Corps and Matt Sydal.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Death Before Dishonor V- Night 2- Philadelphia, PA 8/11/07|date=August 11, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

At Manhattan Mayhem II, Aries defeated former Generation Next stable mates Roderick Strong and Jack Evans in a triple threat match.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Manhattan Mayhem II- New York, NY 8/25/07|date=August 25, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} At Glory by Honor VI: Night Two, Aries disbanded The Resilience in order to focus on regaining the ROH World Championship. At Rising Above, Aries faced current ROH champion Nigel McGuinness in a losing effort in an attempt to regain the ROH World Championship.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Rising Above- New York, NY 12/29/07|date=December 29, 2007|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

Aries began to act frustrated due to losing matches and began refusing to shake hands after matches. Jimmy Jacobs displayed interest in adding Aries to The Age of the Fall (AotF). Tammy Sytch also offered Aries her managerial services. Aries was defeated by McGuinness a second time at Supercard of Honor III in March 2008.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Supercard of Honor III- Orlando, FL 3/29/08|date=March 29, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} Afterwards, Aries left with Lacey, seemingly joining the AotF. Aries returned in April and revealed that Lacey had decided to leave the AotF and that he and Lacey had become a couple. This outraged Jacobs, who attacked Aries and started a feud with him. Shortly afterwards, Lacey was apparently attacked by Jacobs outside a gym.

On April 23, Aries was chosen by Jay Briscoe as his replacement for brother Mark Briscoe as to defend the ROH World Tag Team Championship against The Age of the Fall after Mark was forced out of action due to an injury. The reasoning for this choice was Aries and the Briscoe Brothers' shared hatred for the Age of the Fall. Aries was not considered to have won the championship a second time, but rather to have been a substitute in a title defense. After their first and only title defense, the championship was vacated.

On June 6 Aries teamed with Bryan Danielson in Ring of Honor's one night tournament to crown new World Tag Team Champions. They defeated Roderick Strong and Davey Richards in the first round before being eliminated in the second by eventual winners Jimmy Jacobs and Tyler Black.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Up For Grabs- Hartford, CT 6/6/08|date=June 6, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} On June 7 Aries and Danielson received a title shot against Jacobs and Black but were defeated when Black pinned Danielson with a Phoenix Splash.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Respect Is Earned II- Philadelphia, PA 6/7/08|date=June 7, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

On June 27, Aries was defeated by Necro Butcher in a "Relaxed Rules" match following a chair shot to the head.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Battle For Supremacy- Dayton, OH 6/27/08|date=June 27, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} Aries had unsuccessfully attempted to get Butcher to leave the Age of The Fall and when Necro refused, he ceased fighting back against him. On June 28, Aries pinned ROH World Tag Team Champion Jimmy Jacobs in a "Relaxed Rules" match following a 450° splash despite interference from Necro Butcher, Tyler Black, Allison Wonderland, and MsChif.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Vendetta II- Chicago Ridge, IL 6/28/08|date=June 28, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} On July 25, Aries and Jay Briscoe teamed to defeat ROH World Tag Team Champions The Age of The Fall (Jimmy Jacobs and Tyler Black) in a No DQ Match when Briscoe pinned Black.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Northern Navigation- Toronto, Ontario 7/25/08|date=July 25, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} On July 26, in Detroit, Aries spent much of the show brawling with Jimmy Jacobs culminating in both men brawling at the top of a 20-foot ladder. Jacobs' partner in the Age of The Fall, Necro Butcher, eventually tipped the ladder over sending them both crashing through a table below.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=New Horizons- Detroit, MI 7/26/08|date=July 26, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

Aries continued his feud with Jimmy Jacobs throughout the fall. In the second Steel Cage Warfare Match at Glory by Honor VII, Aries' team (Aries, Briscoe Brothers) defeated Jacobs' team (Jacobs, Black, Delirious) and Necro's team (himself only).{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Glory By Honor VII- Philadelphia, PA 9/20/08|date=September 20, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} The two had a best of three series to somewhat put an end to the feud. The first match took place at Ring of Homicide 2, where Jacobs (with help from Delirious and Brodie Lee) defeated Aries in a Falls Count Anywhere Match.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Ring of Homicide 2- Edison, NJ 10/25/08|date=October 25, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} The second match took place at Bound By Hate, and Aries defeated the bloody Jacobs in a Dog Collar Match.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Bound By Hate- Markham, Ontario 11/8/08|date=November 8, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} The deciding match was at Rising Above 2009 in an "I Quit" Match. Lacey returned to ROH in Aries' corner, and Aries won the match. Aries continued his feud with the Age of the Fall this time against the heavily cheered Tyler Black. At Final Battle 2008, Black was defeated by Aries in a Number One Contender's Match.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|title=Final Battle 2008– New York, NY 12/27/08|date=December 27, 2008|access-date=April 7, 2012|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322142414/http://www.rohwrestling.com/live/events/past-event|archive-date=March 22, 2013|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} After the match Jacobs attacked Black, and Aries ran in to make the save. Instead, however, Aries teamed up with Jacobs to attack Black. Aries later explained that the reason that he attacked Black was because the fans turned on him.

In addition to his work in ROH, Aries was announced as a member of Team Epic War for Chikara's King of Trios 2009 tournament. On the first night, Aries, along with Ryan Drago and Tony Kozina, lost to the F1rst Family (Arik Cannon, Darin Corbin and Ryan Cruz) in the first round. On the second night, Aries lost to Player Dos in the Rey de Voladores opening four corners match. On the final night, Aries lost to Eddie Kingston in a singles match.

In early 2009, Aries also underwent a complete character transformation, cutting his long hair, donning new pink and black trunks, and coming to the ring in a bright pink fur jacket. He dropped his darker persona and adapted to a new ladies man gimmick, often referring to himself as "A Double" and "The Greatest Man That Ever Lived", the latter after a song by Weezer, which also became his new entrance theme.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/article.aspx?id=3112|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100113060724/http://rohwrestling.com/news/Article.aspx?id=3112|title=Newswire For The Week of December 6th|date=December 8, 2009|archive-date=January 13, 2010|access-date=January 30, 2010|publisher=Ring of Honor}}{{cite web |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/8972/124/|title=ROH TV report|date=April 11, 2009|last=McCarron|first=Rob|access-date=January 30, 2010|publisher=Wrestling Observer/Figure Four Online}}

On June 13, 2009, at Manhattan Mayhem III, Aries won a three-way elimination match against the ROH World Champion Jerry Lynn and Tyler Black, to become the first person to have held the ROH World Championship on more than one occasion. On December 19, 2009, at Final Battle 2009, ROH's first live pay-per-view, he defended the title by wrestling Tyler Black to a 60-minute time limit draw.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_37521.shtml|title=Caldwell's Ring Of Honor PPV Report 12/19: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of ROH's first online PPV – Austin Aries vs. Tyler Black|date=December 19, 2009|first=James|last=Caldwell|access-date=December 20, 2009|publisher=PWTorch}} On February 13, 2010, at the main event of ROH's 8th Anniversary Show, Aries lost the ROH World Championship to Tyler Black.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ROH_News_29/article_39019.shtml|title=ROH News: Big News – Result from tonight's ROH World Title match in New York City|date=February 13, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=February 14, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}} During the following months he feuded with Delirious and Jerry Lynn, while also becoming the manager of Rhett Titus and Kenny King, the tag team known collectively as the All Night Express, dubbing himself the "Greatest Manager That Ever Lived".{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/glory-by-honor-ix-this-saturday-night-2/|title="Glory By Honor IX" This Saturday Night!|date=September 8, 2010|access-date=September 14, 2011|publisher=Ring of Honor}} In October 2010 Aries' profile was removed from ROH's official website, after reports had surfaced that the promotion was going to be cutting down the size of their roster.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1286225956|title=Reports: ROH cutting back on using some talent|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=October 4, 2010|access-date=October 6, 2010|work=WrestleView}} On October 6, 2010, competing promotion Evolve announced that Aries would make his debut for the promotion on November 20.{{cite web|url=http://www.evolvewrestling.com/news/140.htm|title=Taylor vs. Aries Signed For 11/20|date=October 6, 2010|access-date=October 6, 2010|work=Evolve|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717202543/http://www.evolvewrestling.com/news/140.htm|archive-date=July 17, 2011|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

On October 12, 2010, Dragon Gate USA announced that Aries had signed a contract with the promotion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_44457.shtml|title=DGUSA News: Former ROH World champion Austin Aries signs with DGUSA, set to debut on first Internet PPV; third PPV match announced|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=October 12, 2010|access-date=October 12, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Aries made his debut for the promotion on October 29 at the Bushido: Code of the Warrior pay-per-view, where he was defeated by Open the Dream Gate Champion Masato Yoshino in a non–title match. After the match, Rich Swann, whom Aries had offered to adopt as his protégé, turned his offer down.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_44907.shtml|title=Dragon Gate USA Internet PPV results 10/29: Radican & Caldwell's live coverage of DGUSA Internet PPV debut|last=Caldwell|first=James|author2=Radican, Sean|date=October 29, 2010|access-date=October 29, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On January 28, 2011, at United: NYC, Aries defeated Swann in a singles match.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_47161.shtml|title=Eaton's DGUSA "United: New York" 1/28 – Hulk vs. YAMATO, round robin tag team tournament|date=January 28, 2011|last=Eaton|first=Jimmy|access-date=January 29, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} The following month Aries started a storyline, where he claimed to have lost the motivation to continue his professional wrestling career, after failing to make the cast of WWE Tough Enough, before offering to put his Dragon Gate USA career on the line in order to get one last shot at Yamato and the Open the Freedom Gate Championship.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1298143210|title=Indy star says his career could be ending soon|date=February 19, 2011|last=Martin|first=Adam|access-date=April 4, 2011|work=WrestleView}} On April 2 at Mercury Rising 2011, Aries was unsuccessful in his challenge, thus seemingly bringing his Dragon Gate USA career to an end.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_48979.shtml|title=DGUSA Internet PPV report 4/2: Radican's "ongoing" real-time coverage of Dragon Gate USA PPV from Atlanta|date=April 2, 2011|last=Radican|first=Sean|access-date=April 2, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} The following day at Open the Ultimate Gate, Aries was defeated by Jimmy Jacobs in what was billed as his Dragon Gate USA farewell match. However, after the match Aries feigned passing the torch to Chuck Taylor, Johnny Gargano and Rich Swann, the trio known collectively as Ronin, before turning on them and joining the promotion's top heel group, Blood Warriors, claiming to have found his purpose under the leadership of CIMA.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/04/05/17883016.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714220719/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/04/05/17883016.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Austin Aries pulls a swerve at Dragon Gate USA's Open the Ultimate Gate 2011|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|date=April 5, 2011|access-date=April 6, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} Blood Warriors and Ronin faced each other in a six-man elimination tag team match on June 5 at Enter The Dragon 2011, which Ronin won after Johnny Gargano managed to submit the Gargano Escape on both CIMA and Aries.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_50618.shtml|title=6/5 DGUSA in New York City: Live perspective on Internet PPV event with technical issues — DGUSA Title match, six-man tag, Fray!|date=June 3, 2011|last=Devries|first=Eric|access-date=June 9, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}

On June 9, 2011, it was reported that Aries had left both Dragon Gate USA and Evolve to reportedly pursue a career outside of professional wrestling.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_50646.shtml|title=DGUSA News: Austin Aries parts ways with Dragon Gate USA following weekend shows|date=June 9, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|author2=Radican, Sean|access-date=June 9, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Aries later revealed that he considered retiring from professional wrestling because he "didn't want to be Randy the Ram in 10, 20 years." However, he decided to continue wrestling after receiving an offer from Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, to be a part of the X-Division Showcase.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlingnewssource.com/news/31245/Austin-Aries-Reveals-He-Almost-Retired-in-2011|title=Austin Aries Reveals He Almost Retired in 2011|date=September 17, 2013}}

File:Austin Aries TNA 2011.jpg

On June 13, 2011, at the tapings of the June 16 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries made a return to TNA, defeating Jimmy Rave and Kid Kash in a first round match of the X Division Showcase tournament for a contract with the promotion.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1308026713|title=Spoilers: Impact Wrestling for June 16|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|date=June 14, 2011|access-date=June 14, 2011|work=WrestleView}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50815.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact report 6/16: Ongoing coverage of Slammiversary fallout on Spike TV|date=June 16, 2011|access-date=June 16, 2011|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On July 10 at Destination X, Aries defeated Jack Evans, Low Ki and Zema Ion to win the tournament and earn a contract with TNA.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_51335.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Destination X PPV results 7/10: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Styles vs. Daniels, Ultimate X, RVD vs. Lynn|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=July 10, 2011|access-date=July 11, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} In his first match on Impact since being officially re-signed, Aries defeated Shannon Moore in a singles match, after hitting him with a steel chain and then pinning him for the victory, thus returning to his A Double character and establishing himself as a heel.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51429.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact report: Ongoing live coverage of Destination X fallout, Mr. Anderson vs. Sting|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|date=July 14, 2011|access-date=July 15, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the July 21 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries cost Alex Shelley, who had previously confronted him on his win over Shannon Moore, his shot at the TNA X Division Championship.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wadekellerdotcom/51592.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact Wrestling report 7/21: Ongoing "virtual time" report on Sting title win fallout|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|date=July 21, 2011|access-date=July 21, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Two weeks later, Aries defeated Shelley in a singles match.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51897.shtml|title=Bax's 8–4 Impact Wrestling "virtual time" coverage: Final sell for Hardcore Justice|last=Baxendell|first=Matt|date=August 4, 2011|access-date=August 4, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On August 7 at Hardcore Justice, Aries and Shelley competed in a three-way match for the TNA X Division Championship, but were both unable to win the belt from the defending champion, Brian Kendrick.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_51958.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Hardcore Justice PPV results 8/7: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Sting vs. Angle, five title matches, BFG Series matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 7, 2011|access-date=August 7, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}

On the August 18 episode of Impact Wrestling Aries won an eight-man gauntlet match to earn another shot at the X Division Championship.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/18/18573331.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629070454/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/18/18573331.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Impact: Flair finally returns to show|date=August 18, 2011|access-date=August 19, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} On September 11 at No Surrender, Aries defeated Kendrick to win the X Division Championship for the first time.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_53179.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA No Surrender PPV results 9/11: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — three-way TNA Title match, BFG Series finals|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=September 11, 2011|access-date=September 11, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On October 16 at Bound for Glory, Aries defeated Kendrick in a rematch to retain the title.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_54312.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Bound for Glory PPV results 10/16: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Angle-Roode, Hogan-Sting |date=October 16, 2011|access-date=October 16, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On November 13 at Turning Point, Aries defeated Jesse Sorensen and Kid Kash in a three-way match to retain the X Division Championship.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_55119.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Turning Point PPV results 11/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode-Styles, five title matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=November 13, 2011|access-date=November 13, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On December 11 at Final Resolution, Aries defeated Kash in a singles match to retain the X Division Championship.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_55904.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Final Resolution PPV results 12/11: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode-Styles, five title matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=December 11, 2011|access-date=December 11, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On January 8, 2012, at Genesis, Aries successfully defended the X Division Championship in a four-way elimination match against Jesse Sorensen, Kid Kash and Zema Ion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_56739.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Genesis PPV results 1/8: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode-Hardy, Angle-Storm|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=January 8, 2012|access-date=January 8, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On February 12 at Against All Odds, Aries defeated Alex Shelley with his Last Chancery submission hold to retain the X Division Championship.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58034.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Against All Odds PPV results 2/12: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode-Hardy-Storm-Ray TNA Title main event|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=February 12, 2012|access-date=February 12, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the March 8 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries was defeated by Ion via disqualification, after Aries was caught using Ion's hair spray on him; as a result, Aries retained his title.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58951.shtml|title=Turner's TNA Impact Wrestling report 3/9: Garett & Hardy vs. Angle & Gunner main event, Anderson returns, Abyss's "brother" emerges, X Title match, one title change|last=Turner|first=Scott|date=March 9, 2012|access-date=March 9, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On March 12, Aries became the longest reigning TNA X Division Champion in history by breaking the previous record of 182 days, set by Christopher Daniels in 2005.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1331907858|title=Austin Aries now longest reigning X Division Champion|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=March 16, 2012|access-date=March 16, 2012|work=WrestleView}} On March 18 at Victory Road, Aries successfully defended the title against Zema Ion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_59264.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Victory Road PPV results 3/18: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Sting-Roode main event, Angle-Hardy, Storm-Ray|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 18, 2012|access-date=March 18, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the following episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries again retained the title after he wrestled Ion, Kid Kash and Anthony Neese to a no contest, following interference from Bully Ray.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_59426.shtml|title=Turner's TNA Impact Wrestling results 3/22: Victory Road fall-out, Dixie & Sting & Hogan close the show, three title matches|last=Turner|first=Scott|date=March 23, 2012|access-date=March 23, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Aries turned face the following week, when he teamed with James Storm to defeat Ray and Bobby Roode in the main event.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_59713.shtml|title=Turner's TNA Impact Wrestling results 3/29: Will Hulk Hogan accept the GM position?, Jeff Hardy vs. Mr. Anderson, Morgan vs. Crimson, and more|date=March 30, 2012|access-date=March 30, 2012|last=Turner|first=Scott|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} The rivalry between Aries and Ray continued on April 15 at Lockdown, where the two were on opposing teams in the annual Lethal Lockdown match. Aries' team, led by Garett Bischoff, ended up defeating Ray's team, led by Eric Bischoff.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_60411.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Lockdown PPV results 4/15: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode-Storm main event, Angle-Hardy, Lethal Lockdown opener|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=April 15, 2012|access-date=April 15, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Aries continued his record-breaking title reign on the May 10 episode of Impact by successfully defending the X Division Championship against Zema Ion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61291.shtml|title=Turner's TNA Impact Wrestling results 5/10: Sacrifice lead-in, Morgan and Crimson final confrontation, James Storm update, King Mo calls out TNA Champ|last=Turner|first=Scott|date=May 11, 2012|access-date=May 11, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Three days later at Sacrifice, Aries defeated Bully Ray in a singles match, submitting him with the Last Chancery.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_61356.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Sacrifice PPV results 5/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode-RVD main event, Angle-Styles, Hardy-Anderson |last=Caldwell|first=James|date=May 13, 2012|access-date=May 13, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On May 19, Aries announced that he had signed a contract extension with TNA.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_61600.shtml|title=TNA re-signs X Division champion|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=May 19, 2012|access-date=May 19, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the live May 31 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries successfully defended the X Division Championship against Chris Sabin.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61970.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 5/31: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact in new timeslot — Roode vs. Sting|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=May 31, 2012|access-date=May 31, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Earlier in the episode, Aries had a run-in with Samoa Joe, which led to Joe costing Aries his match with Crimson the following week.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62184.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 6/7: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — six-man tag, final Slammiversary hype|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 7, 2012|access-date=June 7, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On June 10 at Slammiversary, Aries defeated Joe to retain the X Division Championship.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_62289.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Slammiversary PPV results 6/10: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode vs. Sting headlines 10th Anniv. PPV|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 10, 2012|access-date=June 10, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the following episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries competed in his first Ultimate X match, where he successfully defended the X Division Championship against Chris Sabin and Zema Ion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62447.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 6/14: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — TNA World Title match, Ultimate X starts the show|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 14, 2012|access-date=June 14, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}

Following his win, Aries announced that he was not satisfied with being just the X Division Champion, which led to General Manager Hulk Hogan promising him a shot at the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, but only if he first vacated the X Division Championship. The following week, Aries agreed to Hogan's terms with the caveat that every year before the annual Destination X pay-per-view, future X Division Champions be given the same opportunity.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62673.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 6/21: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — Aries Decision 2012, BFG Series, Open Fight Night, Gut Check|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 21, 2012|access-date=June 21, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Aries relinquished the X Division Championship two weeks later, ending his record-breaking reign at 301 days.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_63056.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 7/5: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — final PPV hype, Hardy vs. Storm|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=July 5, 2012|access-date=July 5, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On July 8 at Destination X, Aries defeated Bobby Roode in the main event to win the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_63123.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Destination X PPV results 7/8: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Roode vs. Aries, new X Division champion, Angle vs. Joe|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=July 8, 2012|access-date=July 8, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On July 17, TNA president Dixie Carter announced that Aries had signed a new long-term deal with the promotion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_63417.shtml|title=TNA signs top champion to new deal|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=July 17, 2012|access-date=July 17, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Aries and Roode had a non-title rematch on the July 19 episode of Impact Wrestling, which ended in a no contest, when both competitors were attacked by a group of masked assailants, known only as the "Aces & Eights".{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_63491.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 7/19: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — Open Fight Night, Aries vs. Roode|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=July 19, 2012|access-date=July 19, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On August 12 at Hardcore Justice, Aries successfully defended the TNA World Heavyweight Championship against Roode,{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_64215.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Hardcore Justice PPV results 8/12: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Aries vs. Roode, BFG Series matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 12, 2012|access-date=August 12, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} with a pre-match stipulation preventing Roode from getting another rematch for the title as long as Aries was champion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_63943.shtml|title=TNA News: Final Hardcore Justice line-up following Thursday's Impact — stipulation added to PPV main event|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 9, 2012|access-date=August 12, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} During the following weeks, Aries moved from Roode to defending TNA against the Aces & Eights.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_64745.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 8/30: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — three big BFG Series matches including Styles-Joe|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 30, 2012|access-date=September 9, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_64933.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 9/6: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — BFG Series finale, "Championship Thursday" launch|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=September 6, 2012|access-date=September 9, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the September 20 episode of Impact Wrestling, after Jeff Hardy had won the 2012 Bound for Glory Series to become Aries' next challenger for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, Aries began working as a tweener, claiming that he could match anything Hardy had ever done in his career.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_65369.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 9/20: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — Open Fight Night, BFG PPV hype, Shaq|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=September 20, 2012|access-date=September 20, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|quote=Apparently Aries is playing a C.M. Punk tweener role before Bound for Glory.}} On October 11, during the final episode of Impact Wrestling before Bound for Glory, Aries claimed that he worked best when people were against him, before crotching Hardy on the ring ropes and dropping him with a brainbuster, turning heel once again.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_65888.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 10/11/12: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact — final PPV hype, triple main event|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=October 11, 2012|access-date=October 11, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Three days later in the main event of Bound for Glory, TNA's largest annual event, Aries lost the TNA World Heavyweight Championship to Hardy, ending his reign at 98 days.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_65938.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Bound for Glory PPV results 10/14: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV — Aries vs. Hardy, Storm vs. Roode|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=October 14, 2012|access-date=October 14, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}

On the October 25 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries attacked Hardy, after he had successfully defended his title against Kurt Angle, stealing one of his two title belts and announcing that a rematch between the two would take place at Turning Point.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/10/26/20310311.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130115095603/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/10/26/20310311.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=January 15, 2013|title=Impact: Championship Thursday features 3 title shots|last=Van Der Griend|first=Blaine|date=October 26, 2012|access-date=November 1, 2012|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} On November 11 at Turning Point, Aries failed to regain the TNA World Heavyweight Championship from Hardy in a ladder match.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_66565.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA TURNING POINT PPV RESULTS 11/11: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Hardy-Aries, top titles at-stake|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the November 22 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries moved from Hardy to becoming a disruption around the Impact Zone by revealing a secret relationship between Bully Ray and General Manager Hulk Hogan's daughter Brooke.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_66775.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 11/22: Thanksgiving Edition features Gut Checks, Turkeys, more|website=www.pwtorch.com}} The following week, Aries was chosen by Hogan as the number one contender to Rob Van Dam's X Division Championship. Aries defeated Van Dam in the main event via disqualification, following interference from Bully Ray, but as the title does not change hands on a disqualification, Van Dam retained.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_66909.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 11/29: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Championship Thursday - X Title in main event, Hogan Knows Best?|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On December 9 at Final Resolution, Aries defeated Ray in a singles match, following a distraction from both Brooke and Hulk Hogan and a low blow from Aries.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_67111.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA FINAL RESOLUTION PPV RESULTS 12/9: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Hardy vs. Roode in the main event, Aries vs. Bully|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the December 13 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries was revealed as the man who paid the Aces & Eights to prevent Bobby Roode, who originally paid the group to help him win the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, from winning at the pay-per-view, which led Jeff Hardy to issue him a title challenge.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_67224.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 12/13: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of PPV fall-out episode|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the December 20 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries was unsuccessful in his challenge for Hardy's TNA World Heavyweight Championship, following interference from Bobby Roode.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_67417.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 12/20: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Champ. Thursday - Aries vs. Hardy, 1.3.13 reveal|website=www.pwtorch.com}} Aries and Roode faced off in a number one contenders match on the December 27 episode of Impact Wrestling. The match ended in a no contest after the two attacked referee Earl Hebner and then were, in turn attacked by Hardy.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_67507.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 12/27: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Open Fight Night - Aries vs. Roode ends without a finish to cap off 2012|website=www.pwtorch.com}} The rivalry culminated in a three-way elimination match on January 13, 2013, at Genesis, where Aries failed again to regain the TNA World Heavyweight Championship from Hardy.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_67844.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA GENESIS PPV RESULTS 1/13: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV - Hardy defends TNA Title against two foes, two title matches, #1 contender matches|website=www.pwtorch.com}}

{{see also|The Dirty Heels}}

File:Austin Aries and Bobby Roode 2.jpg as the TNA World Tag Team Champions]]

On January 25, at the tapings of the February 7 episode of Impact in Manchester, England, Roode and Aries defeated Chavo Guerrero Jr. and Hernandez to win the TNA World Tag Team Championship, thus giving Aries the TNA Triple Crown.{{cite web|title=IMPACT Wrestling #447 (January 25, 2013)|url=http://www.cagematch.de/?id=1&nr=90749|publisher=CAGEMATCH|access-date=December 27, 2013}} Roode and Aries made their first successful title defense on March 10 at Lockdown, defeating Bad Influence (Christopher Daniels and Kazarian) and Chavo Guerrero Jr. and Hernandez in a three-way match.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_69158.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA LOCKDOWN PPV RESULTS 3/10: Live, in-person coverage from San Antonio - Hardy vs. Ray TNA Title match, Lethal Lockdown, more|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the March 21 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries and Roode defeated Guerrero and Hernandez to retain the TNA World Tag Team Championship, following interference from Daniels and Kazarian. Afterwards, the champions were attacked by Daniels and Kazarian.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_69437.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 3/21: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Impact from Chicago - new #1 contender to TNA Title, two title matches, Lockdown fall-out|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the April 11 episode of Impact Wrestling, Roode and Aries lost the TNA World Tag Team Championship back to Guerrero and Hernandez in a Two-out-of-Three Falls match, ending their reign at 76 days.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_69964.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 4/11: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - TNA World Title match, Tag Title change|website=www.pwtorch.com}} Aries and Roode received their rematch on the April 25 episode of Impact Wrestling, but were again defeated by Guerrero and Hernandez after an inadvertent interference from Christopher Daniels and Kazarian.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_70226.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 4/25 (Hour 2): Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - Bully-Hogan, title matches|website=www.pwtorch.com}} Aries and Roode faced Daniels and Kazarian in number one contenders match on the May 9 episode of Impact Wrestling, however, the match ended in a no contest after special guest referee James Storm superkicked Aries and Daniels and walked out on the match.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_70474.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 5/9 (Hour 2): Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - TNA Original returns to help TNA vs. Aces & Eights, #1 contender match ends without a finish|website=www.pwtorch.com}} Aries and Roode received another shot at Guerrero and Hernandez's titles on June 2 at Slammiversary XI, in a fatal four-way elimination match, which was won by Gunner and James Storm.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_71025.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA SLAMMIVERSARY PPV RESULTS (Hour 2): Hall of Fame inductee revealed, new Tag & TV champions|website=www.pwtorch.com}}

On the June 13 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries defeated Eric Young to qualify for the 2013 Bound for Glory Series.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_71253.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 6/13: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of BFG Series qualifiers, Sting bringing back Mafia, Rampage Jackson Week 2, more|website=www.pwtorch.com}} The following week, Aries defeated Jay Bradley in his first BFG series match via pinfall to earn seven points in the tournament.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_71423.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 6/20: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of semi-live Impact - BFG Series kick-off, Open Fight Night, Sting takes out Aces & Eights, more|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the June 27 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries disguised himself as Suicide and defeated Chris Sabin and Kenny King to win his second X Division Championship. Aries unmasked himself at the end of the show, after Hulk Hogan discovered the real Suicide and demanded the fake Suicide to unmask, and announced that he intended to trade in the X Division Championship for a World Heavyweight Championship match at Destination X.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_71579.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 6/27: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Impact - BFG Series continues, two title matches, Suicide, Joe added to Mafia, Hogan plays principal, more|website=www.pwtorch.com}} The following week, however, Aries lost the X Division Championship back to Sabin in a three-way match, which also included the real Suicide, now known as Manik.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_71730.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 7/4: Sabin wins X Title & tears it up with Aries, BFG Series continues, more from Vegas|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the August 1 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries turned face once again after praising AJ Styles, before being interrupted by his former tag team partner Bobby Rhode. Aries also competed in the Bound for Glory Series before being eliminated by Styles on September 12 at the Impact Wrestling: No Surrender event.

On October 20 at the Bound for Glory pay-per-view, Aries competed in an Ultimate X match for the X Division Championship but the match was won by Chris Sabin. On the December 12 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries defeated Sabin to win the X-Division Championship for a third time.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 12/12: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of TNA Impact — Feast or Fired, X Title match, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_75081.shtml#.Uqp1aa_TnIU|publisher=PWTorch|access-date=December 12, 2013}} On the January 2, 2014, episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries lost the X Division Championship back to Sabin.{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=TNA Impact Wrestling Results – 1/2/14 (Coronation of Magnus)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/tna-wrestling-results/tna-impact-results/45871-tna-impact-wrestling-results-1-2-14-coronation-of-magnus|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=January 2, 2014}} Three weeks later, on the January 23 special episode of Impact Wrestling:Genesis, Aries once again defeated Sabin to win the TNA X Division Championship for the fourth time.{{cite web|last=Carapola|first=Stuart|title=LIVE, ONGOING IMPACT WRESTLING — GENESIS 2014 COVERAGE: A SOLID HALF HOUR OF TALKING TO START THE SHOW|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/82894/live-ongoing-impact-wrestling-genesis-2014-coverage.html?p=1|publisher=PWInsider|access-date=January 16, 2014}} On the February 6 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries successfully defended his X Division Championship against Zema Ion, who cashed in his Feast or Fired briefcase.{{cite web|last=Cladwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 2/6: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Glasgow Night 2 – Lockdown main event set, Angle vs. Magnus, MVP follow-up, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_76181.shtml#.UvUDK_l_tps|publisher=PWTorch|access-date=January 31, 2014}}

Three weeks later, on the February 27 episode of Impact Wrestling, served as the special guest referee in a match between Bobby Roode and MVP. Aries attacked MVP, allowing Roode to win the match, turning heel once again.{{cite web|last=Cladwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 2/27: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of London Night 1 – Captains Match, Angle returning from "injury," latest Lockdown PPV hype, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_76682.shtml#.UxHzBfl_tps|publisher=PWTorch|access-date=February 28, 2014}} On March 2, Aries lost the X Division Championship to Seiya Sanada at Wrestle-1's Kaisen: Outbreak event in Tokyo, Japan.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_76737.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - TNA NEWS: New X Division & Tag Champions determined at TNA vs. Wrestle-1 show in Japan|website=www.pwtorch.com}} On the May 22 episode of Impact Wrestling, Aries helped Eric Young against MVP, Lashley, and Kenny King but was attacked by the trio, turning face once again. On June 15, 2014, at Slammiversary, Aries defeated Kenny King in a match to determine which one would face TNA World Heavyweight Champion Eric Young in a title match. Later that night, Aries lost to Young.

At the June 20 Impact Wrestling taping, Aries won back the X Division Championship from Sanada for his fifth reign.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_79129.shtml|title=TNA spoilers: Key results & developments from Friday night's TV taping for July Impact episodes|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 21, 2014|access-date=June 21, 2014|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} A mere five days after regaining the championship, Aries chose to invoke "Option C" to vacate the championship for a title shot at the TNA World Heavyweight Championship at Destination X on June 26, where he lost to the champion Lashley. Then, Aries entered in a short feud against James Storm and his new apprentice The Great Sanada, when Aries was defeated by him on the August 27 episode of Impact Wrestling. Aries suffered a loss once again against the duo in a tag-team match, teaming with Tajiri on the September 10 episode of Impact Wrestling. Three weeks later, Aries challenged Samoa Joe for his TNA X Division Championship, but was ultimately defeated. On January 7, 2015, Aries defeated Low Ki to regain the X Division Championship for the sixth time.{{Cite web|url=https://www.ewrestlingnews.com/articles/a-review-of-tna-s-debut-on-destination-america-contains-spoilers|title=A Review of TNA's Debut on Destination America **CONTAINS SPOILERS**|date=January 8, 2015}} Low Ki recaptured the title during the January 16 Impact episode after interference from The Beat Down Clan.

During the January 23 Impact Wrestling episode, Aries won the annual Feast or Fired, affording him an opportunity at the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_82670.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - TNA NEWS: Impact SPOILERS - full results for 1/16 & 1/23 debut episodes in Friday night timeslot, plus crowd size|website=www.pwtorch.com}} Throughout February and March, Aries continued to feud with the Beat Down Clan with Low Ki stealing Aries' briefcase after a match with Samoa Joe, with Aries eventually taking it back. At Lockdown, Aries took part in the annual Lethal Lockdown match with Team Kurt Angle, defeating The Beat Down Clan. Aries also reformed the Dirty Heels with Bobby Roode, with the two challenging The Wolves to a best of 5 series for the Tag Team Titles. The Wolves won the first two matches and Aries and Roode won the third. At Destination X, Aries cashed in his Feast or Fired briefcase for an opportunity at the TNA World Heavyweight Championship on Kurt Angle, however Angle retained the championship. After defeating the Wolves in the fourth match of the series, which was a Full Metal Mayhem match, Aries defeated Davey Richards at Slammiversary XIII to have the option to choose the stipulation for the final match in the series. Aries and Roode chose an Iron Man tag team match, which they ultimately lost on the Bell to Bell special edition of Impact. On the August 5 episode of Impact Wrestling (taped before his release), Aries asked for a title shot, General Manager Bully Ray scheduled Aries against Rockstar Spud after Aries turned heel and ripped on Spud and the whole X Division. After Aries lost the match, he was forced to leave TNA.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/94714/another-big-return-627-tna-impact-spoilers.html?p=1|title=ANOTHER BIG RETURN - 6/27 TNA IMPACT SPOILERS | PWInsider.com|website=www.pwinsider.com}} Afterwards, Aries's heel turn was short lived after Aries showed respect to Rockstar Spud by handing Spud his bow tie and raised his hand, turning Aries face in the process. On June 28, 2015, Aries left TNA as his contract with the company expired.

During a select number of episodes of Impact Wrestling in October and November (taped in July), Aries was put into the TNA World Title Series for the vacant TNA World Heavyweight Championship, scoring 4 points in the tournament, but he finished in third for his block, thus failing to advance through the qualifying round of 16.

On July 6, 2015, Ring of Honor announced the return of Aries.{{Cite web|url=https://www.rohwrestling.com/news/breaking-news-former-2x-roh-world-champion-returning|title=News | ROH Wrestling|website=www.rohwrestling.com}} Aries was then announced as the replacement for Roderick Strong in the Vegas Wild Card six-man tag match on July 17 alongside Moose and ROH World and Television Champion Jay Lethal against Jay Briscoe, Dalton Castle and Kyle O'Reilly.

On March 9, 2018, Aries returned to Ring of Honor (ROH) for the third time at ROH's 16th Anniversary pay-per-view, where he originally challenged Kenny King to a match for King's ROH World Television Championship at a later date, the only ROH singles title Aries has yet to win. On May 13 on the ROH/NJPW War of the Worlds Tour, Aries challenged Silas Young, who won the World Television Championship at Supercard of Honor XII, for the title in a match that Young won by disqualification when King hit him with the title. After the match, Aries attacked Todd Sinclar and King, turning heel.

File:Austin Aries NXT.jpg]]

On January 22, 2016, WWE announced that Aries would be joining their NXT brand.{{cite web |title=Austin Aries arrives in NXT: Jan. 22, 2016 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQ0qFidCEyo&list=LL-zfwkzt7FeRQ99xXWU-Y9w&index=2092 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/BQ0qFidCEyo |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|website=YouTube |access-date=January 22, 2016}}{{cbignore}} On the March 2 episode of NXT, he made his debut as a face. He was introduced by general manager William Regal before being attacked by Baron Corbin.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/austin-aries-arrives-in-nxt-28580818|title=Austin Aries arrives in NXT|last=Melok|first=Bobby|date=January 22, 2016|access-date=February 4, 2016|work=WWE}}{{cite web|title=1/22 NXT Taping News – the "Huge Surprise" SPOILER, La Sombra in Dark Match, DeMott in the crowd, more|date=January 23, 2016 |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/22/8788/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 23, 2016}}{{cite web|title=1/22 NXT SPOILERS – Full Results from Orlando TV taping|date=January 23, 2016 |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/22/nxtspoilersjan22ucf/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 23, 2016}} A match was booked between the two at NXT TakeOver: Dallas on April 1, where Aries defeated Corbin.{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=4/1 "NXT Takeover: Dallas" Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/01/nxttakeoverdallasresults/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 1, 2016}} On the May 18 episode of NXT, Aries teamed with Shinsuke Nakamura to defeat the team of Blake and Murphy.{{cite web|last1=Namako|first1=Jason|title=WWE NXT Results – 5/18/16 (Bayley vs. Nia Jax in the main event, Aries and Nakamura vs. Blake and Murphy)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-nxt-results/62185-wwe-nxt-results-51816-bayley-vs-nia-jax-main-event-austin-aries-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-blake-murphy/|website=wrestleview.com|date=May 19, 2016|access-date=May 20, 2016}} On the May 25 episode of NXT, Aries declared his intention to become the next NXT Champion, which prompted a response from Nakamura. Regal scheduled a match between the two at NXT TakeOver: The End on June 8,{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=5/25 WWE NXT Results – James's Report on Aries-Nakamura promo, #1 contender Women's main event, TMDK vs. Gargano & Ciampa, more|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/25/525-wwe-nxt-results-jamess-report-aries-nakamura-promo-1-contender-womens-main-event-tmdk-vs-gargano-ciampa/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 25, 2016}} which Nakamura won.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2645116-wwe-nxt-takeover-the-end-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights/page/4|title=WWE NXT TakeOver: The End Results: Winners, Grades, Reaction and Highlights|first=Erik|last=Beaston|website=Bleacher Report }} On the June 22 episode of NXT, Aries came out to seemingly thank No Way José for reminding him that wrestling was about having fun, only to attack him after an impromptu dance party, turning heel in the process.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2647921-wwe-nxt-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-june-22/page/3|title=WWE NXT Results: Winners, Grades, Reaction and Highlights from June 22|first=Erik|last=Beaston|website=Bleacher Report }} Aries defeated No Way José by submission at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn II.{{cite web|title=8/20 "WWE NXT Takeover: Brooklyn" Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/20/820-wwe-nxt-takeover-brooklyn-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|last1=James|first1=Justin|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 20, 2016}} Aries and Roderick Strong entered the second Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament. They defeated Tucker Knight and Otis Dozovic in the first round,{{cite web |last1=Taylor |first1=Scott |title=Austin Aries & Roderick Strong def. Tucker Knight & Otis Dozovic (Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic First Round Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2016-10-19/article/austin-aries-roderick-strong-def-tucker-knight-otis-dozovic-dusty |website=WWE.com |access-date=October 19, 2016}} and were scheduled to face TM-61 in the second. However, Aries withdrew from the tournament due to injury. Strong faced Shane Thorne in a singles match instead, but was defeated.{{cite web |last1=Taylor |first1=Scott |title=Shane Thorne def. Roderick Strong (Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic Second Round Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2016-11-02/article/shane-thorne-def-roderick-strong-dusty-rhodes-tag-team-classic |website=WWE.com |access-date=November 2, 2016}}

On October 27, Aries suffered a large orbital socket injury during a live event in Fresno, California, during a match against Nakamura and was expected to be injured until early 2017.{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Mike|title=Austin Aries Injury Update... And It Isn't Good|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/105690/austin-aries-injury-updateand-it-isnt-good.html?p=1|publisher=PWInsider|date=October 31, 2016|access-date=October 31, 2016}} It was revealed in November 2016 that permanent titanium plates were inserted to repair the injury.{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2016/1124/619682/austin-aries-injury-update/ |title=Austin Aries requires permanent titanium plates from injury against Shinsuke Nakamura|last=Ravindran|first=Renjith|date=November 24, 2016|access-date=November 24, 2016}}

On December 18 at Roadblock: End of the Line, Aries made his WWE pay-per-view debut alongside Michael Cole and Corey Graves. He called the triple threat match between Rich Swann, T. J. Perkins and The Brian Kendrick.{{cite web |last1=Pappolla |first1=Ryan |title=WWE Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann def. The Brian Kendrick and TJ Perkins |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/roadblockendoftheline/2016/rich-swann-vs-tj-perkins-vs-the-brian-kendrick-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=December 18, 2016}} The following night on Raw, Aries provided commentary during the cruiserweight match.{{Cite web|url=https://lastwordonprowrestling.com/2016/12/20/monday-night-raw-review-roadblock-fallout/|title = Monday Night Raw Review: RoadBlock Fallout|date = December 20, 2016}} Aries also provided commentary alongside Graves and Mauro Ranallo on 205 Live, as well as Main Event.{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-main-event-results-cruiserweights-come-main-event-227051|title = WWE Main Event results: Cruiserweights come to Main Event|date = December 25, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/18853414/wwe-205-live-austin-aries-makes-fiery-statement-arrival |title=Austin Aries makes a statement with his official arrival to 205 Live |website=espn.com |first1=Matt |last1=Willis |date=2017-03-08 |access-date=2020-07-04}}

On the March 6, 2017, episode of Raw, Aries turned face by attacking WWE Cruiserweight Champion Neville during an interview with him.{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2017-03-06|title=WWE Raw results, March 6, 2017: The returning Undertaker sends painful WrestleMania message to Roman Reigns|website=WWE}} On March 7, he made his 205 Live in-ring debut, defeating Tony Nese.{{cite web |title=Austin Aries def. Tony Nese |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-205-live/2017-03-07#full-detail-40020486 |website=WWE.com |access-date=March 7, 2017}} On March 13, Aries defeated Ariya Daivari on his Raw in-ring debut.{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Austin Aries def. Ariya Daivari |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2017-03-13/article/austin-aries-def-ariya-daivari |website=WWE.com |access-date=March 13, 2017}} On the March 14 episode of 205 Live, Aries defeated T. J. Perkins, Akira Tozawa, The Brian Kendrick and Tony Nese in an elimination match to become the number one contender for the Cruiserweight Championship at WrestleMania 33, last eliminating Kendrick to win.{{cite web |title=Austin Aries won the Fatal 5-Way Elimination Match to become the No. 1 contender to the WWE Cruiserweight Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-205-live/2017-03-14#full-detail-40020842 |website=WWE.com |access-date=March 14, 2017}} However, Aries lost to Neville during the pre-show in the opening match.{{Cite web |url=http://www.gerweck.net/2017/04/02/wwe-wrestlemania-33-preshow-coverage/ |title=WWE WrestleMania 33 Preshow Coverage - Gerweck.net |access-date=April 2, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405010232/http://www.gerweck.net/2017/04/02/wwe-wrestlemania-33-preshow-coverage/ |archive-date=April 5, 2017 |url-status=dead }} On the April 4 episode of 205 Live, Aries defeated Perkins, Jack Gallagher and Mustafa Ali in a fatal four-way match to earn a rematch against Neville at Payback,{{cite web |title=Austin Aries def. T. J. Perkins, Jack Gallagher and Mustafa Ali to become No. 1 contender to the Cruiserweight Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-205-live/2017-04-04/article/episode-brief-1-wwe-205-live-april-4-2017-2 |website=WWE.com |access-date=April 4, 2017}} which he won by disqualification.{{cite web |last1=Laboon |first1=Jeff |title=Austin Aries def. WWE Cruiserweight Champion Neville by Disqualification |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2017/wwe-cruiserweight-champion-neville-vs-austin-aries-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=April 30, 2017}} Aries again failed to win the Cruiserweight Championship after he was defeated by Neville at Extreme Rules in a submission match.{{cite web |last1=Wortman |first1=James |title=WWE Cruiserweight Champion Neville def. Austin Aries (Submission Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2017/neville-austin-aries-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=June 4, 2017}}

On July 7, 2017, Aries was released from his WWE contract. Initial reports stated that Aries was frustrated with his role in the company and asked to be let out of his contract, but Dave Meltzer stated that Aries apparently did not ask for his release and was said to be incredibly unpopular with WWE's writing staff and others backstage.{{cite web|title=Austin Aries released|url=http://www.wwe.com/article/austin-aries-released|website=WWE|date=July 7, 2017|access-date=July 7, 2017|language=en}}{{cite web|last=Radican|first=Sean|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/07/07/austin-aries-released-wwe-details-behind-released-whats-next/|title=Austin Aries released by WWE, details behind why he was released, what's next|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 7, 2017|access-date=July 8, 2017}} In a 2019 interview, Aries confirmed that he did not ask for his release and was let go from his contract as the WWE writing staff "didn't have anything for him".{{cite AV media|last1=Vliet|first1=Chris Van|author-link=Chris Van Vliet|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c50f38o_xQM |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/c50f38o_xQM |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title= Austin Aries: No sell at Bound For Glory, Christy Hemme incident, being fired from WWE, Jim Cornette|date=December 9, 2019|access-date=January 7, 2021|via=YouTube|time=14m 32s}}{{cbignore}}

In early 2018, Aries made his official return to TNA, now known as Impact Wrestling, calling himself the "Belt Collector", displaying all of the championships he was holding in various other promotions. He then defeated Eli Drake to win the Impact World Championship.{{cite web|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/114706/major-major-impact-wrestling-spoiler.html?p=1|title=MAJOR, MAJOR IMPACT WRESTLING SPOILER - PWInsider.com|website=www.pwinsider.com}} Aries also won the Impact Grand Championship, defeating Matt Sydal, a few days later in a Winner Take All match, which at that point made him an Impact Wrestling Grand Slam winner, a double champion within Impact Wrestling, and at one point being a sextuple champion overall with six titles between five companies based in three different continents (North America, Europe, and Australia).{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/MrJacobCohen/status/952722829065228289|title=Jacob Cohen on Twitter}}{{Cite web|url=http://impactwrestling.com/austin-aries-belt-collector|title=Austin Aries: Belt Collector - Impact Wrestling.com}}{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} After feuding with Eli Drake and Matt Sydal, Austin Aries began a feud with Alberto El Patron for the Impact World Championship. Set to fight for the World Title at Impact's newest event, Redemption, Alberto El Patron was released from his contract by Impact Wrestling after no showing an event at Wrestlecon.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=116682|title=ALBERTO El PATRON GONE FROM IMPACT WRESTLING|last=Johnson|first=Mike|date=2018-04-07|access-date=2018-10-16}} The main event of Redemption was now a triple threat match, pitting Austin Aries against Lucha Underground's Fénix and Pentagón Jr.{{cite web|url=https://pwinsider.com/article/116735/impact-wrestling-to-address-alberto-firing-this-thursday.html?p=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808182943/https://pwinsider.com/article/116735/impact-wrestling-to-address-alberto-firing-this-thursday.html?p=1 |archive-date=August 8, 2022 |title=IMPACT WRESTLING TO ADDRESS ALBERTO FIRING THIS THURSDAY |publisher=PWInsider |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=April 9, 2018 |access-date=February 12, 2023}} Pentagón Jr. walked out as the new Impact World Champion.{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/impact-redemption-results/102688-april-22-2018-triple-threat-impact-world-title/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210612231656/https://www.wrestleview.com/impact-redemption-results/102688-april-22-2018-triple-threat-impact-world-title/ |archive-date=June 12, 2021 |title=Impact Redemption Results – 4/22/18 (Triple Threat for the Impact World Championship) |publisher=WrestleView |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=April 22, 2018 |access-date=February 12, 2023}}

On the May 31 Under Pressure themed Impact, which was taped on April 24, Aries turned heel for the first time since 2016 when he used a low blow to defeat Pentagon Jr. to win the Impact World Title for a third time.{{Cite web|url=http://www.ringsidenews.com/2018/04/25/impact-wrestling-spoilers-april-24th-2018/|title=Impact Wrestling Spoilers – April 24th, 2018|last=Valentine|first=Billi Ray|date=2018-04-25|access-date=2018-10-16}} Aries subsequently formally unified the Grand and World championships at a press conference on June 4, 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.solowrestling.com/new/71496-austin-aries-confirma-la-unificacion-del-campeonato-grand-y-mundial|title=Austin Aries confirma la unificación del Campeonato Grand y Mundial|last=Solowrestling|date=June 4, 2018}} At Slammiversary XVI, Aries successfully retained his title against Moose.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=7/22 Powell's Impact Wrestling Slammiversary live review: Austin Aries vs. Moose for the Impact World Championship, LAX vs. OGz for the Impact Tag Titles, Su Yung vs. Madison Rayne for the Knockouts Championship, Matt Sydal vs. Brian Cage for the X Division Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/22/7-22-powells-impact-wrestling-slammiversary-live-review-austin-aries-vs-moose-for-the-impact-world-championship-lax-vs-ogz-for-the-impact-tag-titles-su-yung-vs-madison-rayne-for-the/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 22, 2018|access-date=July 22, 2018}} Aries's next championship defense came on Impact's August 9 edition, defeating Eddie Edwards with the help of Killer Kross,{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/10/8-9-moores-impact-wrestling-tv-review-austin-aries-vs-eddie-edwards-for-the-impact-world-championship-pentagon-jr-vs-matt-sydal-alisha-edwards-vs-tessa-blanchard-the-lax-vs-ogz-war-continue/|title=8/9 Moore's Impact Wrestling TV Review: Austin Aries vs. Eddie Edwards for the Impact World Championship, Pentagon Jr. vs. Matt Sydal, Alisha Edwards vs. Tessa Blanchard, the LAX vs. OGz war continues|last=Moore|first=John|date=2018-08-10|access-date=2018-10-16}} whom the champion would announce as his "insurance policy" the following week.{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/17/8-16-moores-impact-wrestling-tv-review-lax-vs-the-ogz-in-a-parking-lot-street-fight-sami-callihan-vs-fenix-su-yung-vs-allie-in-a-non-title-match-johnny-impact-vs-jimmy-jacobs/|title=8/16 Moore's Impact Wrestling TV Review: LAX vs. The OGz in a parking lot street fight, Sami Callihan vs. Fenix, Su Yung vs. Allie in a non-title match, Johnny Impact vs. Jimmy Jacobs|last=Moore|first=John|date=2018-08-16|access-date=2018-10-16}} The heel duo were joined by Moose after the latter betrayed Edwards during a tag team match on the August 30 airing of Impact.{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/31/8-30-moores-impact-wrestling-tv-review-eddie-edwards-and-moose-vs-austin-aries-and-killer-kross-brian-cage-vs-fenix-for-the-x-division-championship-su-yung-vs-allie-vs-tessa-blanchard-for-the/|title=8/30 Moore's Impact Wrestling TV Review: Eddie Edwards and Moose vs. Austin Aries and Killer Kross, Brian Cage vs. Fenix for the X Division Championship, Su Yung vs. Allie vs. Tessa Blanchard for the Knockouts Championship, LAX and the OGz mourn over Richie being run over|last=Moore|first=John|date=2018-08-31|access-date=2018-10-16}}

Aries' next title defense would come against Johnny Impact, at Bound for Glory on October 14.{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/09/07/9-6-moores-impact-wrestling-tv-review-moose-reveals-the-reason-he-betrayed-eddie-edwards-tessa-blanchard-vs-su-yung-for-the-knockouts-championship-konnan-and-kingston-have-a-meeting-petey-willi/|title=9/6 Moore's Impact Wrestling TV Review: Moose reveals the reason he betrayed Eddie Edwards, Tessa Blanchard vs. Su Yung for the Knockouts Championship, Konnan and Kingston have a meeting, Petey Williams vs. Rich Swann|last=Moore|first=John|date=2018-09-07|access-date=2016-10-16}} As the PPV moved closer, the feud started to blur the lines between a work (something scripted) and shoot (something real), beginning with the two wrestlers trading insults on Twitter that they appeared to take personally, with Aries later deleting many of his tweets.{{cite web| url = https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/10/07/weekly-overview-impact-wrestling-bound-for-glory-headline-competitors-engaged-in-heated-twitter-exchange-streaming-service-woes-bfg-line-up-upcoming-dates-latest-news/| title = twitter| date = October 7, 2018}} Specifically, Johnny Impact mocked Aries' short stature and the champion responded by making fun of the weight of Johnny Impact's wife, Taya Valkyrie. Both wrestlers alleged in the media that they authentically took issue with the comments.{{Cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/austin-aries-tweet-explanation/|title=Austin Aries Addresses Controversial Tweet About Internet Outrage in New Interview|last=Satin|first=Ryan|date=2018-10-08|access-date=2018-10-16}} TMZ Live also pushed the angle "like [it] was a shoot".{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/tna-results/impact-wrestling-bound-glory-live-results-aries-vs-johnny-impact-267906|title=Impact Wrestling Bound for Glory live results: Aries vs. Johnny Impact|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|date=2018-10-14|access-date=2018-10-16}} The two wrestlers got in a brawl the night before Bound for Glory during Abyss's Impact Hall of Fame induction.{{cite web|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/120964/what-happened-after-austin-aries-crashed-the-impact-hall-of-fame-last-night.html?p=1|title=WHAT HAPPENED AFTER AUSTIN ARIES CRASHED THE IMPACT HALL OF FAME LAST NIGHT - PWInsider.com|website=www.pwinsider.com}}

Aries would drop the title to Johnny Impact the following night, but Aries seemingly no-sold the finish, as he got up quickly after getting pinned, yelled at commentator/executive Don Callis and left the ring while flipping off the crowd, Johnny Impact, and Callis.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/impact-wrestling/2018/10/15/17976604/impact-wrestling-bound-for-glory-recap-reactions-austin-aries-johnny|title=Bound for Glory 2018 recap & reactions: Leave your soul behind|last=Decker|first=Kyle|date=2018-10-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015071225/https://www.cagesideseats.com/impact-wrestling/2018/10/15/17976604/impact-wrestling-bound-for-glory-recap-reactions-austin-aries-johnny|archive-date=2018-10-15|url-status=dead|access-date=2018-10-16}} Kross and Moose, who were both at ringside during the match, and Johnny Impact all looked to be confused with Aries' actions, and the new champion also appeared to mouth "are you kidding me?".{{Cite news|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/10/14/bound-for-glory-results-mcmahons-live-report-on-aries-vs-impact-for-the-world-title-lax-vs-ogz-edwards-vs-moose-and-more/|title=BOUND FOR GLORY RESULTS: McMahons live report on Aries vs. Impact for the World Title, LAX vs. OGz, Edwards vs. Moose and more|last=McMahon|first=Mike|newspaper=Pro Wrestling Torch |date=2018-10-14|access-date=2018-10-16}} Reports later attributed Aries getting up so fast following the finish of the match to a concussion Aries suffered during the match.{{cite web|url=http://411mania.com/wrestling/austin-aries-contract-update-impact/|title=411MANIA|website=Austin Aries Reportedly Suffered a Minor Concussion}} Impact Wrestling producer Petey Williams stated that Bound For Glory was the last date on Aries contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/austin-aries-impact-contract/|title=Austin Aries Impact Wrestling Contract Allegedly Ended at Bound For Glory|first=Ryan|last=Satin|date=October 15, 2018}} Aries was present at the first day of television tapings for Impact on October 8, but was "sent home" and scripts had to be rewritten for the show. Dave Meltzer later reported that both Johnny Impact and Aries started an online feud without management's permission.{{Cite journal |last=Meltzer |first=Dave|author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=November 5, 2018 |title=November 5, 2018 Observer Newsletter|url=https://members.f4wonline.com/wrestling-observer-newsletter/november-5-2018-observer-newsletter-highs-and-lows-wwe-evolution-and |journal=Wrestling Observer Newsletter|quote=On the Austin Aries thing, as noted last week, his contract has expired but the company is very high on him.... The twitter stuff was actually Aries and John Morrison trying to work their own angle and making it personal with Aries calling Taya husky. Management wasn't happy with that because they don't want people working angles they aren't appraised of, because it could contradict where they are going.|url-access=subscription}}

After his release from the WWE and his 90-day non-compete clause expired, Aries made a surprise return to Impact Pro Wrestling providing commentary during their event and promoting his book on November 4, 2017. Then on November 18, Aries returned to House of Hardcore 35 where he was promoting his book and calling himself The Truth. On December 2, House of Hardcore 36: Blizzard Brawl Homecoming, Aries defeated Joey Mercury in his House Of Hardcore in ring return. On April 13, 2018, Aries wrestled on a card for the Seattle based independent promotion DEFY Wrestling, and won that company's championship.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/AustinAries/status/985039868056121345|title=Austin Aries on Twitter}} On August 17, 2018, Aries appeared on House of Glory's "High Intensity 7" show and successfully defended the Impact World Championship in an open challenge against Ken Broadway.{{cite web|url=https://www.hogwrestling.net/hog-high-intensity-7-8-17-18|title=House of Glory Wrestling - Home - HOG: HIGH INTENSITY 7 (8/17/18)|website=House of Glory Wrestling - Home|access-date=August 23, 2018|archive-date=August 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180824034220/https://www.hogwrestling.net/hog-high-intensity-7-8-17-18|url-status=dead}}

In August 2018 Aries appeared on Ring Warriors television tapings for WGN America. It was reported that he signed on to wrestle for Ring Warriors and be involved behind the scenes in a creative aspect. Their television program debuted on September 15, 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article.php?id=119174&p=1|title=AUSTIN ARIES HEADING FOR RING WARRIORS, IN FRONT OF AND BEHIND THE CAMERAS - PWInsider.com|website=www.pwinsider.com}} He went on to wrestle on five episodes of their first season. The first two appearances he successfully defended the Impact World Heavyweight Championship on the program.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=666&page=4&search=Ring+warriors|title=Matches « Austin Aries « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}} Aries first match of 2019 occurred at Warrior Wrestling 3, where Aries lost a street fight to Eddie Edwards.{{cite web|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/news/ct-sta-ent-warrior-wrestling-st-1228-story.html|title=Lucha Underground star Brian Cage to defend his Warrior Wrestling title in Chicago Heights|first=Jessi|last=Virtusio|website=Daily Southtown}} On March 15, 2019, Aries returned to Warrior Wrestling at Warrior Wrestling 4 to face Eddie Edwards in a rematch.{{cite web| url = https://mobile.twitter.com/WarriorWrstlng/status/1091461375170437120| title = Reference at mobile.twitter.com}} Following that match ending in a disqualification, a steel cage match was booked for Warrior Wrestling 5 between the two competitors.{{Cite web|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/news/ct-sta-ent-warrior-wrestling-st-0510-story.html|title = Former WWE superstar Molly Holly referees match to crown Warrior Wrestling's inaugural women's champion| website=Chicago Tribune }}

Aries debuted at World Series Wrestling (WSW) Australia's tour in 2017. Aries wrestled against Ricochet and Brian Cage for the WSW championship at Adelaide's show, however he fell short on capturing the title. He won the title at Sydney's show where he defeated Ricochet after an interference from Brian Cage. On December 4, 2017, Aries appeared on a show for the UK-based Defiant Wrestling promotion. The following day, Aries defeated Marty Scurll to win the Defiant Championship.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=186876|title=Defiant #3 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|website=www.cagematch.net}} Months later, at No Regrets 2018, Aries lost the title to Rampage, in his final match for Defiant. On December 17, 2017, Austin Aries defeated Mark Haskins at IPW:UK The Big Bang: Undisputed to win the IPW:UK World Championship.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=183538|title=IPW:UK The Big Bang: Undisputed « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|website=www.cagematch.net}} In June 2018 Aries returned to WSW for another tour. On the June 24 show, Aries defeated Johnny Impact to win their WSW Heavyweight Championship.{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=666&page=4&search=Wsw|title=Matches « Austin Aries « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}} He then returned to WSW in November 2018, where he lost the WSW Heavyweight Championship to Robbie Eagles on November 26. In March 2019, he completed another tour with WSW, wrestling Abyss in a Monster's Ball match and unsuccessfully challenging Robbie Eagles for the WSW Heavyweight Championship.{{cite web| url = https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=666&page=4| title = Reference at www.cagematch.net}}

On February 8, 2018, Aries debuted for Major League Wrestling (MLW) at their Road to the World Championship event, after being backstage at their two previous events.{{cite web|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/pro-wrestling/os-wrestling-austin-aries-ach-mlw-20180131-story.html |title=Austin Aries vs. ACH signed for MLW match in Orlando on Feb. 8| access-date=2020-07-04 |date=2018-02-10 |first1=Jay |last1=Reddick| work=Orlando Sentinel}} At the show he defeated A. C. H., taking a microphone after the bout announcing his intention of becoming the MLW World Middleweight Champion.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/02/09/2-8-mlw-orlando-fla-austin-aries-low-ki-matt-riddle-jeff-cobb-ach-sami-callihan-mvp/|title = 2/8 MLW in Orlando, Fla.: Austin Aries, Low Ki, Matt Riddle, Jeff Cobb, ACH, Sami Callihan, MVP|date = February 9, 2018}} The match would later be aired as the opening match of MLW's debut episode of MLW Fusion on BeIN Sports.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/mlw-fusion-episode-1-when-world-s-collide|title = MLW Fusion Episode 1: When World's Collide | Fightful News}} However, he would not again appear for the promotion in over a year. On the May 11, 2019, episode of MLW Fusion, a vignette aired announcing that Aries had signed to MLW and he would be returning soon.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/austin-aries-heading-major-league-wresling|title = Austin Aries Heading to Major League Wrestling | Fightful News}} He debuted at MLW Fury Road, defeating Adam Brooks.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sescoops.com/spoilers-mlw-fury-road-results-6-1/|title=Spoilers: MLW Fury Road Results (6/1)|date=June 2, 2019}}

On November 19, 2021, the National Wrestling Alliance announced that Austin Aries would be competing in a match against Rhett Titus in a tournament for the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship at the NWA's next pay-per-view NWA Hard Times 2 on December 4, 2021. Austin would beat Titus at Hard Times 2 to progress to the semi-finals of the NWA Junior Heavyweight Championship Tournament. On the January 29, 2022, episode of NWA USA, it was announced that Austin would face Luke Hawx in the semi-final. Austin would beat Hawx on the February 5, 2022, episode of NWA USA to progress to the final of the tournament, which would take place at the National Wrestling Alliance event Crockett Cup on March 20, 2022.

In February 2022, it was announced Aries was joining the new Control Your Narrative wrestling promotion created by EC3 and Adam Scherr.[https://en.superluchas.com/austin-aries-se-une-a-control-your-narrative/?clab=1&domain_gtranslate=en.superluchas.com Austin Aries Joins Control Your Narrative]

Aries made his return to Major League Wrestling (MLW) as a commentator at Battle Riot VII

Prior to working for WWE, Aries provided the voice for the main character Jacob Cass in the Road to WrestleMania mode of the WWE '12 video game.{{cite web|url=http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/121/1210005p1.html|title=WWE '12: A New Road to Wrestlemania|date=October 18, 2011|access-date=October 21, 2011|last=George|first=Richard|publisher=IGN}} Aries later appeared as himself only on WWE 2K17 as a downloadable character as part of the "Future Stars" pack.{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k17/article/wwe-2k17-future-stars-pack-dlc-released|title=WWE 2K17 Future Stars Pack is now available|website=WWE}}

Aries has been a vegan since 2011 and has appeared in PETA videos encouraging the lifestyle.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1342505168|title=TNA Champion Austin Aries on being a vegetarian|date=July 17, 2012|access-date=July 17, 2012|last=Martin|first=Adam|work=WrestleView}}{{cite web|url=http://www.greatveganathletes.com/vegan_athlete_austin-aries-vegan-wrestler|title=Austin Aries, vegan wrestler|date=January 26, 2014|publisher=GreatVeganAthletes.com|access-date=December 7, 2014}}Steve Carrier, "Austin Aries Films Commercial, Bootcamp Finalists, Knockouts, TNA Ignores Request from AAA," {{cite web| url = http://www.allwrestlingnews.com/indy-news/austin-aries-films-commercial-bootcamp-finalists-knockouts-tna-ignores-request-aaa/| title = All Wrestling News| access-date = September 7, 2016| archive-date = September 19, 2016| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160919153133/http://www.allwrestlingnews.com/indy-news/austin-aries-films-commercial-bootcamp-finalists-knockouts-tna-ignores-request-aaa/| url-status = dead}}, November 7, 2014. Aries dated fellow professional wrestler Zelina Vega from 2012 to 2018.{{cite web|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/06/05/former-tna-knockout-reportedly-signs-wwe/|title= Former TNA Knockout reportedly signs with WWE |access-date=June 5, 2017|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date= June 5, 2017 }} Aries is also a fan of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Milwaukee Bucks and played both football and baseball growing up. Aries has the Chinese character Ram (羊) tattooed on his upper left arm to signify the Chinese translation for Aries, which is his ring name and his zodiac sign. As of early 2018, Aries was residing in Orlando, Florida.

On March 31, 2021, Aries temporarily deactivated his Twitter account after receiving backlash for his views criticizing the COVID-19 vaccine.{{Cite web|url=https://superluchas.com/en/de-mal-en-peor-austin-aries-cree-que-las-vacunas-matan-mas-que-el-covid-19/From|title=Bad to Worse: Austin Aries Believes Vaccines Kill More Than COVID-19}}

In June 2020, Aries was accused of sexual misconduct by several women as part of the Speaking Out movement.[https://en.superluchas.com/austin-aries-es-acusado-por-movimiento-speakingout/ One more: Austin Aries accused of sexual misconduct at #SpeakingOut]

File:Austin Aries sunglasses.jpg]]

File:TNA X Division Champion Austin Aries.jpg six times, his first reign being the longest in the title's history]]

File:Austin Aries 2013.jpg]]

• Canadian Wrestling's Elite
• CWE Canadian Unified Junior Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1902|title=CWE Canadian Unified Junior Heavyweight Championship|access-date=February 17, 2023|work=Cagematch|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317043713/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1902|archive-date=March 17, 2023|url-status=bot: unknown}}
• Defiant Wrestling
• Defiant Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=https://wearedefiant.com/title/defiant-championship|title=Defiant Championship|access-date=December 19, 2017|work=Defiant Wrestling|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171214111451/https://wearedefiant.com/title/defiant-championship|archive-date=December 14, 2017|url-status=dead}}
• DEFY Wrestling
• DEFY World Championship (1 time)
• European Pro Wrestling
• EPW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• Impact Pro Wrestling
• IPW Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Anthony Draven and Matty Starrcite web|url= https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=231617
• Hall of Fame Classic (2018)cite web|url= https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=226670
• International Pro Wrestling: United Kingdom
• IPW:UK World Championship (1 time)
• Mid-American Wrestling
• MAW Junior Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• MAW Junior Heavyweight Championship Tournament (2003)cite web|url= https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=13616
• Midwest Championship Wrestling
• MCW Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• Midwest Independent Association of Wrestling
• MIAW Cruiserweight Championship (2 times)
• Minnesota Independent Wrestling
• MIW Cruiserweight Championship (2 times)
• MIW Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Ted Dixoncite web|url= https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=36931
• MIW Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (2002)cite web|url= https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=203011
• NWA Midwest
• NWA Midwest X Division Championship (1 time, inaugural)
• NWA Midwest X Division Title Tournament (2003)
• Neo Pro Wrestling
• NPW Cruiserweight Championship (2 times)
• NPW Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (2002)
• Pennsylvania Premiere Wrestling
• PPW Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{cite web| url = https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=2714| title = Reference at www.cagematch.net}}
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
• Ranked No. 12 of the top 500 wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2013{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2013.html|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2013|access-date=October 25, 2018|work=The Internet Wrestling Database}}
• Pro Wrestling WAR
• PWW Heavyweight Championship (1 time, inaugural)
• Ring of Honor
• ROH World Championship (2 times){{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/rohworldtitle.php|title=Ring of Honor Title|access-date=April 5, 2010|publisher=Ring of Honor|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412035906/http://www.rohwrestling.com/rohworldtitle.php|archive-date=April 12, 2010}}
• ROH (World) Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Roderick Strong{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/rohworldtagteamtitles.php |title=Ring Of Honor Tag Team Championship|access-date=April 5, 2010|publisher=Ring of Honor|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412035856/http://www.rohwrestling.com/rohworldtagteamtitles.php|archive-date=April 12, 2010}}{{efn|During Aries reign as ROH Tag Team Champion the ROH Tag Team Championship name was changed to ROH World Tag Team Championship.}}
• Rings Of Europe
• Wachuer Wrestling Trophy (2005)
• Steel Domain Wrestling
• SDW Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Ted Dixon
• Total Nonstop Action Wrestling/Impact Wrestling
• Impact Grand Championship (1 time)
• TNA World Heavyweight/Impact World Championship (3 times)
• TNA World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Bobby Roode
• TNA X Division Championship (6 times)
• Feast or Fired (2015 – TNA World Heavyweight Championship contract)
• Gold Rush Tournament (2014)
• X Division Showcase (2011)
• Fifth TNA Triple Crown Champion
• Fifth Impact Grand Slam Champion{{cite web| url = http://impactwrestling.com/double-main-event-thursday-night-aries-vs-sydal-lashley-vs-cage/| title = Reference at impactwrestling.com}}{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
• Unify Championship Entertainment
• Unify World Championship (1 time)
• World Series Wrestling
• WSW World Heavyweight Championship (2 times){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=574|title=WSW Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}}
• Xtreme Latin American Wrestling
• X-LAW Heavyweight Championship (1 time, current){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1290|title=X-LAW Heavyweight Championship History}}
• Xtreme Wrestling Alliance
• XWA Xtreme Rumble (2018){{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=192416|title=XWA Xtreme Rumble 2018 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm|website=www.cagematch.net}}

{{notelist}}

• List of vegans

{{reflist}}

{{sister project links|d=Q444275|n=no|b=no|v=no|voy=no|s=no|m=no|mw=no|species=no|c=Category:Austin Aries|wikt=no}}

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