El Idolo, known as Andrade in AEW, returned to professional wrestling in early 2026 after a series of legal battles with WWE. Having initially joined WWE in 2024 and mainly appearing on SmackDown, Andrade had notable rivalries, including one with Carmelo Hayes, and later teamed with Rey Fenix. In October 2025, he decided to leave WWE and return to AEW, where he resumed his alliance with the Don Callis Family.
Recently, during an Instagram Q&A, a fan mockingly asked Andrade if he would appear on the next night’s WWE SmackDown. Andrade reposted the comment and replied simply with, “!!!Good joke!!,” indicating a dismissive attitude toward the possibility of returning to WWE.
Jim Ross Comments on Andrade’s Recent AEW Appearance
On January 7, 2026, Andrade was seen on AEW Dynamite for the first time since his departure in October 2025. Jim Ross, making rare appearances in the commentary booth due to health reasons, shared insights about Andrade’s comeback. Ross revealed that Andrade had been kept away from the public eye backstage before his debut and praised the wrestler’s professionalism and versatility.
“I didn’t know he was even in the building, so, they kept him hid. He’s a good addition, he’s a player. He can work and he can work with anybody, and he looks good, classy-looking guy, and if he’s gonna be with Don Callis, that’ll help both of ‘em..” – Jim Ross, Wrestling Commentator
Future Prospects for Andrade in AEW
After more than two years away from active competition, Andrade is set to wrestle again for AEW. His last match took place in December 2023 against Miro. AEW has announced that Andrade will compete on the upcoming Collision episode against Angelico, which marks an important step in his renewed career. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his role with the Don Callis Family evolves and what impact this will have on AEW storylines.
Andrade’s definitive refusal to entertain a WWE SmackDown comeback and his active involvement in AEW signal a clear direction for his career, underscoring ongoing tensions between the two wrestling promotions and highlighting Andrade’s determination to thrive in new wrestling environments.
MAXIMUM CARNAGE #AEWCollision
8/7c, TNT + HBO Max
This Saturday, 1/17!@AndradeElIdolo vs @Angelico_AEWAs announced by @TheDonCallis on #AEWDynamite, Andrade makes his in-ring return against Angelico, THIS SATURDAY! pic.twitter.com/xzgRoJPnSi
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 15, 2026
