All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has built a strong reputation by signing numerous prominent wrestlers, with many fans arguing the promotion now boasts a roster superior to <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE’s. Based in Jacksonville, AEW has successfully recruited popular WWE legends like Mercedes Mone, Jon Moxley, and Cope, leveraging their star power to attract a broader audience. Despite this willingness to welcome former WWE stars, Tony Khan, AEW’s owner, has publicly acknowledged that there are certain WWE legends he will deliberately avoid signing.
Why Brock Lesnar Is Unlikely to Join AEW
Brock Lesnar remains one of WWE’s most formidable and popular talents, hailed globally as “The Beast Incarnate.” However, Tony Khan appears unlikely to pursue Lesnar, even if the opportunity arose. At 48 years old, Lesnar is reportedly nearing the end of his wrestling career, which raises concerns about his long-term value for AEW. Khan would face challenges securing Lesnar’s services due to the high contract cost and Lesnar’s limited availability for matches.
Moreover, Lesnar is currently linked to controversy, having been named in the Janel Grant lawsuit, a factor that discourages Khan from associating AEW with him in any capacity. These considerations make a potential signing both financially and reputationally unviable.
Seth Rollins’ Loyalty to WWE and AEW’s Existing Talent Pool
Seth Rollins, known as “The Architect,” has expressed deep gratitude towards WWE, the company he dreamed of joining since childhood. As the current World Heavyweight Champion, Rollins has been vocal in defending WWE on multiple occasions, highlighting his strong allegiance. This loyalty reduces the likelihood that he will ever transition to AEW under Tony Khan’s leadership.
Additionally, AEW’s roster already features Will Ospreay, a wrestler with a skillset comparable to Rollins but regarded as a superior in-ring performer. Khan may prefer to concentrate resources on developing Ospreay as a cornerstone talent rather than pursuing Rollins, who is nearing his 40s and has adjusted his wrestling style to avoid injuries. This shift has reportedly impacted the quality of Rollins’ matches, making the signing less attractive for AEW.
The Rift Between Tony Khan and Randy Orton Hinders Any Potential Signing
Randy Orton, one of WWE’s most recognizable stars and known for his signature move, the RKO, remains a dream acquisition for many promotions due to his star power and experience. Rumors in 2019 hinted at Orton possibly joining AEW, fueled by cryptic social media interactions between him and AEW wrestlers.
Despite the speculation, Orton re-signed with WWE, putting rumors to rest. The relationship between Orton and Tony Khan subsequently deteriorated, particularly after Khan criticized WWE’s Saudi Arabia partnership and accused Orton of using AEW as leverage to negotiate a better WWE contract. Orton responded publicly by saying he would have contacted Khan’s father, Shahid Khan, if he had any genuine interest in joining AEW. This public dispute cements the improbability of Orton signing with AEW anytime soon.
The Miz’s Role and AEW’s Emphasis on In-Ring Performance
The Miz, also known as “The A-Lister,” has enjoyed a prolific WWE career, particularly as a charismatic heel with strong microphone skills and several memorable in-ring performances. Despite this, AEW does not seem inclined to sign him, even if he becomes available. The promotion prioritizes high-quality in-ring action, and while The Miz is respected, he is generally rated below AEW stars such as Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, and “Hangman” Adam Page in terms of wrestling prowess.
Given AEW’s recent decision to limit free-agent signings to those who can positively impact the company’s dynamics, The Miz’s style appears mismatched with AEW’s current vision. This discrepancy strengthens the likelihood that Tony Khan will not pursue a deal with him.
CM Punk’s Controversial AEW Departure and Future Prospects
AEW shocked the wrestling world in 2021 by persuading CM Punk, “The Best in the World,” to come out of a seven-year retirement. Punk contributed significantly to AEW’s financial and critical success over the following two years. However, backstage tensions between Punk, The Elite, and Jack Perry culminated in Punk’s abrupt exit in September 2023.
After firing Punk to maintain backstage harmony, Tony Khan and Punk have exchanged public criticism. During an interview on Ariel Helwani’s The MMA Hour, Punk admitted to calling Khan a “clown” following his backstage altercation with Perry. This intense discord suggests that AEW is unlikely to rehire Punk should he become a free agent in the future.
The Strategic Importance of Tony Khan’s Signing Decisions
Tony Khan’s decisions about which WWE legends to acquire reflect a strategic focus on long-term sustainability, reputation management, and maintaining locker room cohesion. By declining to sign aging or controversial figures like Brock Lesnar, the loyal Seth Rollins, or divisive personalities such as Randy Orton and CM Punk, Khan demonstrates a preference for cultivating AEW’s unique identity rather than replicating WWE’s roster.
This approach aligns with AEW’s growth as a competitive wrestling promotion emphasizing high-caliber in-ring performance and backstage stability. Fans can expect Khan to continue signing wrestlers who embody these qualities and avoid those whose presence could threaten AEW’s evolving brand.
