 Lio Rush was originally announced for the tournament, but ended up being replaced by NJPW wrestler Kushida.However, Rush eventually returned to the team, replacing ACH in the final due to his departure from ROH.The tournament started on September 30 at the All Star Extravaganza VIII pay-per-view (PPV), with the remaining first round and semifinal matches taking place at the October 1 and 29 tapings of the weekly "Ring of Honor Wrestling" program.