Tony Khan targeting WWE superstars for AEW signings could reshape the landscape of professional wrestling, as AEW and WWE continue to vie for supremacy and fresh talent. With several high-profile WWE athletes potentially available, AEW has a unique opportunity to bring new energy and star power to its roster in the months ahead.
The Ongoing Rivalry Between AEW and WWE Fuels Talent Moves
The wrestling world‘s two largest companies, AEW and WWE, are locked in a dynamic relationship marked by competition and the occasional war of words, with each side seeking to outdo the other at every turn. This rivalry extends beyond storylines and into the real-world movement of talent, as wrestlers frequently cross company lines in search of new creative opportunities or better positioning.
This year, WWE has contributed to an active free-agent market by releasing more than a dozen stars, including names like R-Truth, creating uncertainty among current roster members as contract reviews and creative changes sweep through the company. For many WWE performers whose contracts are nearing their end, concern about their place in future plans may make a jump to AEW particularly appealing, and Tony Khan is poised to capitalize.
Five WWE Stars Who Could Make an Impact in AEW
Among the wrestlers rumored to be on Tony Khan’s radar, five names stand out as potential game-changers for All Elite Wrestling:
1. Drew McIntyre
Drew McIntyre, famously known as the Scottish Warrior, recently appeared at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Tampa, where he was defeated by Damian Priest in a steel cage match. With little indication from WWE of a renewed push or creative direction, McIntyre may soon evaluate his options beyond Stamford. His mix of wrestling skills, charisma on the microphone, and international appeal make him a natural fit for AEW’s main event scene. A debut in AEW could see him immediately slotted into high-profile rivalries with talents such as Jon Moxley or Swerve Strickland, quickly establishing his relevance.
2. AJ Styles
AJ Styles, with a career spanning multiple major promotions, remains among the most respected technical performers in pro wrestling, even at age 48. However, his appearances in WWE have decreased notably in 2025, raising questions about his future there. For AEW fans, the thought of Styles reigniting his legacy—especially considering his illustrious runs in TNA and NJPW—is compelling. If signed, Styles could deliver marquee matches with stars like Will Ospreay and Swerve Strickland while also connecting with longtime wrestling fans who followed his early career. His experience would add veteran leadership to the AEW locker room.
3. Iyo Sky
Iyo Sky, currently holding the Women’s World Championship, is highly regarded for her aerial ability and consistent match quality. With recent roster shifts—such as the anticipated arrival of Mariah May to WWE—Sky’s positioning in WWE could become less secure, presenting AEW with a timely opening. Sky’s arrival in AEW could create instant dream matches with wrestlers like Toni Storm, Jamie Hayter, and Mercedes Moné. AEW’s reputation for innovation would be bolstered by her high-flying style and dedication to pushing boundaries in women’s wrestling.
4. Giulia
Giulia, who made her WWE debut at NXT No Mercy and now performs on SmackDown, has already carved out a significant name for herself in Japan. As she continues to ascend in WWE, moving to the Jacksonville-based AEW could provide fresh challenges and showcase her skills to a broader audience. Given AEW’s existing partnerships with NJPW and Stardom, Giulia’s transition could benefit not just her career but also strengthen AEW’s ties to the Japanese wrestling scene, offering fans a unique east-meets-west experience within the women’s division.
5. Chad Gable
Chad Gable, recognized for his technical wrestling and consistency, has found himself in WWE’s mid-card—even as he recently qualified for the MITB 2025 as El Grande Americano. Despite his undeniable talent, Gable has yet to receive significant singles recognition from WWE. AEW, which prioritizes in-ring performance, could provide Gable with a platform to shine, especially against top athletes like Will Ospreay, Kyle Fletcher, and Kenny Omega. Such a move would allow Gable to demonstrate the depth of AEW’s wrestling-first philosophy.
What Tony Khan’s Aggressive Approach Could Mean for Wrestling’s Future
If Tony Khan succeeds in targeting WWE superstars for AEW signings, the consequences could be significant for both companies and the wrestling industry as a whole. These potential recruits—ranging from established icons like AJ Styles to emerging sensations like Giulia—represent an infusion of talent that could lead to fresh rivalries, innovative matches, and a shift in the balance of power. AEW would bolster its reputation as a destination for elite talent, and WWE might find itself reassessing how to retain its top stars. The competitive tension between these two giants ensures that the coming months will be critical for both companies and their fans around the world.
