All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has established itself as the second largest wrestling promotion in North America, boasting a roster full of talented performers. As the company prepares for Revolution 2026 in Los Angeles, several wrestlers remain caught in contract disputes similar to veteran Chris Jericho, whose status has been uncertain after an extended absence from AEW programming. Jericho’s contract reportedly froze following his time off in 2025, raising questions about his future with the company and the broader issue of talent being stuck in AEW under Tony Khan’s management.
Chris Jericho’s Frozen AEW Contract Raises Broader Concerns
Chris Jericho, one of AEW’s most prominent stars since his 2019 debut and a former AEW World Champion, has not appeared on AEW shows recently. Speculation about a potential move back to WWE has increased after reports indicated his contract with AEW was put on hold during his 2025 hiatus. This situation is not unique to Jericho, as several other wrestlers have experienced similar challenges with contract freezes or creative roadblocks under AEW’s leadership.
Rusev’s Struggles and Exit from AEW
Rusev, Wrestling under his alternative ring name Miro during his AEW tenure from 2020 to 2025, had a mixed experience within the promotion. The 40-year-old Bulgarian Brute initially received a strong push, capturing the AEW TNT Championship once. However, over time, his booking became inconsistent, culminating in no appearances for the entire 2024 calendar year. Creative disagreements with AEW President Tony Khan ultimately left Rusev stuck without a clear path forward. He officially requested his release in late 2024 and departed in early 2025. In a discussion with Chris Van Vliet, Rusev, now back with WWE, expressed his desire to wrestle as a primary motivator for returning to WWE.
“I wanted to wrestle. I wanted to mix it up with the best. I know that the roster is stacked. I don’t remember the last time it was this stacked, but I just want to mix it with everybody. I wanted to wrestle more and more, and all these European tours and everything. I love all that, I love the grind,” he said. – Rusev, WWE Star
Aleister Black’s Underwhelming Run in AEW
Aleister Black, performing under the name Malakai Black during his AEW tenure, was expected by fans to rise to become AEW World Champion. Unfortunately, his time with AEW from his arrival until his departure in 2025 did not meet those expectations. Despite claiming the World Trios Championship alongside Brody King and Buddy Matthews, Black found himself relegated to midcard status with declining television exposure. After requesting a release in late 2022, which was denied, he eventually left AEW after frustrations over his limited role mounted.
Ricky Starks’ Difficult Final Months in AEW
Ricky Starks, formerly an NXT Champion, appeared stuck during his concluding period with AEW. Although still technically part of AEW’s roster in 2024, Starks frequently wrestled outside the promotion on the independent circuit, limiting his appearances on AEW programming. Starks has since flourished in WWE’s NXT, and while his return to AEW appears unlikely, his future relationship with AEW’s management remains uncertain.
Talent Management Challenges Under Tony Khan’s Leadership
The struggles faced by Chris Jericho, Rusev, Aleister Black, and Ricky Starks highlight ongoing concerns about AEW’s talent relations and booking strategies. Contract freezes and inconsistent pushes have caused dissatisfaction among several wrestlers, which can impact AEW’s reputation and roster stability as it competes with WWE. These issues are particularly significant as AEW looks forward to major events like Revolution 2026 and plans to grow its presence in North America.
