Big Moves Coming? AEW Stars Poised to Make the Jump to WWE
In the fast-moving world of pro wrestling, contracts — like storylines can change everything. Right now, a number of AEW wrestlers are rumored to be nearing the end of their contracts, and insiders say that WWE has its eye on some of them. This potential talent migration could reshape rosters, stir up fresh storylines, and bring new energy to both companies.
Who’s Actually Up for Grabs And Why WWE Might Be Interested
Several names are circulating in wrestling news as those AEW Superstars whose contracts may soon expire. These aren’t just peripheral performers; they’re people with real potential, popularity, and upside.
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Danhausen is one of the most talked-about. His quirky, comedic persona is uniquely WWE-friendly, and WWE sources are said to be paying attention to his contract timeline.
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Private Party, the tag team of Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen, is also on the radar. Their high-flying, energetic style would make them a great fit for WWE’s tag team division, especially if used in NXT or on the main roster.
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Chris Jericho, a veteran with a storied career, is another name being floated. His deal reportedly ends soon, and while it’s a long shot, a return to WWE for one last run would be huge, the kind of move that makes headlines.
These names represent a mix of styles and experience: from high-flying tag action to seasoned veteran storytelling. That combination is appealing to WWE, which always benefits from athletes who can work a variety of roles.
Why The Timing Matters
This isn’t just about free agents; it’s a strategic moment. WWE seems to be looking at talent who are both television-ready and capable of reinvention. By targeting these AEW stars:
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WWE bolsters its roster with proven names, and bringing in established talent gives the company more flexibility and star power.
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AEW faces a risk of losing creative investment; letting key or popular wrestlers walk could weaken the brand or force Tony Khan to double down on retention.
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Storytelling opportunities open up new faces (who are familiar) can inject fresh feuds, especially if WWE positions these arrivals as “defectors” or major signings.
Would These Wrestlers Actually Fit in WWE?
Yes — and in interesting ways:
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Danhausen’s comedic timing and offbeat style could offer WWE something different in a sea of serious storylines. He’s character-driven, and WWE has a real talent for using such characters effectively.
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Private Party can bring dynamic tag team matchups. Their youthful energy and athleticism could immediately make them contenders on WWE’s tag roster, potentially even before the main roster, if brought in through NXT.
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Jericho already has all the ingredients for a big return: history, charisma, and star power. WWE could lean into a “legend returning” angle or give him a platform to mentor younger talent.
Challenges and Risks
Of course, it wouldn’t be a simple switch:
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Contract Negotiations: These wrestlers aren’t leaving lightly; money, creative freedom, and commitment all factor in.
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Fan Expectations: When big names cross over, fans expect big things. WWE would need to justify signing them by booking them well.
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AEW’s Retention Game: AEW may fight to keep some of these talents, either with new contracts or by offering bigger roles.
What It Could Mean for Pro Wrestling
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More Movement: If these signings happen, it could spark a new wave of cross-promotion movement not just from AEW to WWE, but possibly elsewhere.
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Competitive Storytelling: WWE could use these additions to shake up its narrative, while AEW might respond with fresh pushes for new or existing stars.
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Talent Leverage: Wrestlers might gain more bargaining power knowing both major promotions are potential destinations.
