The wrestling community is buzzing as WrestleMania 42 approaches, with speculation mounting about possible new WWE signings ahead of the event. The ongoing WrestleMania 42 WWE signings competition between AEW and WWE is intensifying as several AEW stars face contract expirations, opening doors for potential major debuts at WWE’s biggest annual showcase.
Danhausen’s Contract Situation and Possible WWE Move
Danhausen, known for his unique character work, has had an underwhelming run in AEW and has not appeared on television since December 2023. Originally, his contract was set to end last year, but Tony Khan extended it due to injury-related delays, with the current deal expiring this month. Sources suggest Danhausen might join WWE’s NXT brand after becoming a free agent.
Despite his popularity among fans, AEW has not maximized Danhausen’s potential on-screen. WWE could leverage his strong crowd connection and distinct persona, potentially giving him a prominent spot before WrestleMania. Such a debut would make an immediate impact and delight the audience.
Private Party’s Tag Team Future and WWE Interest
The tag team known as Private Party, consisting of Marq Quen and Isiah Cassidy, has gone through notable shifts recently. After winning AEW’s tag titles in October 2024, they lost them to the Hurt Syndicate in January 2025. Since then, Private Party has been absent from AEW programming, sparking rumors about their contract status and plans.

While contract details remain private, reports indicate that Private Party will soon leave AEW and that WWE has expressed interest in signing them. Ahead of WrestleMania in Las Vegas, WWE might arrange a surprise debut for the duo, potentially echoing the surprise return of the Hardy Boyz at WrestleMania 33.
Chris Jericho’s Anticipated Return to WWE
Chris Jericho, a former AEW World Champion, continues to be the subject of intense speculation regarding a return to WWE. Though absent from action for nearly ten months, and despite earlier reports of his contract lasting through the end of 2025, Jericho remains listed on AEW’s roster page, suggesting his free agency status is pending.
If Jericho becomes a free agent soon, he could emerge as one of the marquee names joining WWE ahead of WrestleMania 42, adding significant star power to the event. His potential arrival would mark a major shift in the wrestling landscape.
What the Upcoming WrestleMania Could Mean for These AEW Stars
As WrestleMania 42 approaches, the window for new WWE signings is narrowing. This year’s event promises to be unpredictable, with established stars like Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Cody Rhodes historically dominating the stage, but new arrivals could shake up the status quo.
The possible signings of Danhausen, Private Party, and Chris Jericho exemplify WWE’s ongoing strategy to strengthen its roster by acquiring top independent and AEW talents. These moves reflect the high-stakes competition between AEW and WWE, highlighting how contract expirations can dramatically alter wrestling’s competitive dynamics.
Fans and insiders alike are closely watching which AEW talents become part of WWE’s roster before the event, as their presence could redefine storylines and fan engagement moving forward.
Who and what is #Danhausen?
Delve into the peculiar mind of @DanhausenAD | #AEW Unresolved Mysteries
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— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 23, 2024
