Contract Speculations and Future Returns: AEW Stars and Potential WWE Comebacks

Speculations surrounding the contract status of prominent All Elite Wrestling (AEW) figures have been a topic of interest, with wrestling fans keenly observing potential returns to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). A notable name in this context is Samoa Joe, whose current contract details with AEW remain undisclosed.

Joe, who joined AEW in 2022, has experienced substantial success, establishing his value after his release from WWE on two occasions within a year. Despite his achievements in AEW, rumors circulate that his fond relationship with Triple H could pave the way for a return to WWE, either for an in-ring encore or an off-screen role.

The dynamic between WWE and AEW has been particularly intriguing since WWE’s creative direction shifted with Triple H at the helm. This change in leadership has reportedly made WWE more appealing to several wrestlers who originally moved to AEW under former WWE chair Vince McMahon’s tenure, which was marked by criticism over creative decisions.

Among the notable stars who have thrived in AEW are the Bulgarian wrestler Miro and Toni Storm. Miro, who adopted the «Redeemer» persona, captured the AEW TNT Championship, though his appearances have since dwindled. Meanwhile, Storm transitioned seamlessly to AEW, clinching the Women’s World Championship swiftly after her arrival due to dissatisfaction with WWE’s handling of her character.

Malakai Black adds to the list of performers potentially eyeing a WWE return. Black, once an NXT standout, found his trajectory in WWE halted by budget-driven releases. His AEW tenure has not yet propelled him to the main event status many anticipated, fueling speculation about his potential return to WWE under a more favorable regime.

Conversely, Adam Cole, another NXT sensation, seems committed to AEW despite injuries stalling his momentum. Recently, he affirmed his desire to conclude his wrestling career within AEW’s ranks.

The Rhodes brothers, Dustin and Cody, have also been subjects of speculation. Dustin has taken on a player-coach role within AEW, but with Cody’s growing prominence in WWE, there is anticipation regarding a possible reunion.

Veteran Christian Cage’s unexpected turn as a top heel in AEW reaffirmed his lasting influence in wrestling. This evolution hints at his intention to remain with AEW, as does the steadfast stance of his former tag-team partner, who also appears uninterested in a WWE return.

In the women’s division, Mercedes Mone‘s underwhelming AEW stint is often attributed to character misalignment. However, with changes in WWE management, her reappearance as Sasha Banks at WWE is deemed plausible.

Swerve Strickland‘s journey in AEW, marked by history-making milestones, illustrates the prosperity some former WWE talents have achieved outside the promotion. Strickland, notably the first Black AEW World Champion, has publicly declined offers for a WWE comeback, emphasizing his commitment to AEW.