Origin of Aatrox. Proof this champ is the sword?

With the release of Kalista and her usage of the bounding spear with Aatrox. The animation of the process does not show the normal death scene, like other champions do. Rather Aatrox's body staggers a little bit, however look at the sword. The sword bends and curves to the side as if its in pain/death. Thoughts?