WWE is reportedly showing strong interest in Gabe Kidd, who is currently teamed up with Jon Moxley in AEW, as they look to strengthen their roster with new talent. With Kidd’s contract at New Japan Pro Wrestling nearing its end, speculation is mounting about a potential move to WWE and the future of his wrestling career.
WWE’s Pursuit of Gabe Kidd Intensifies
Gabe Kidd, a stand-out member of the Death Riders faction led by Jon Moxley, has established himself as a rising force in New Japan Pro Wrestling since his debut in 2020. Recently, Kidd expanded his profile by joining All Elite Wrestling in 2024, amplifying his visibility and reputation among wrestling fans. As his tenure with NJPW approaches its possible conclusion, reports are growing about WWE’s intention to secure his signature.
Dave Meltzer, speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, confirmed WWE’s growing interest in Kidd, highlighting the qualities the company values in him. Meltzer explained that Kidd’s unique presence, compelling look, and strong mic skills make him particularly attractive to WWE management. He further elaborated that Kidd’s “wildcard” persona helps him stand out from others in the wrestling landscape.
“WWE really wants Gabe Kidd. His name is getting brought up a lot right now. He’s on their radar big time. I mean, he’s got a hell of a look, he’s got presence, and he’s a very good promo. Obviously there’s the stuff that comes with him—that he’s a wildcard—but that also makes him stand out, you know? He’s not generic. He’s not a clone. And that matters,” Meltzer noted. [H/T Ringside News]
With the expiration of Gabe Kidd’s NJPW contract drawing near, the wrestling world awaits his decision and how it may shift industry dynamics both in AEW and WWE. Kidd’s emerging reputation and proven abilities in major factions like Death Riders and his connection to Jon Moxley have only heightened interest around his next career destination.
WWE Monitoring Other Stars in AEW
In addition to Gabe Kidd, WWE appears to be tracking other promising talents in AEW. Recent reports signal attention toward Powerhouse Hobbs, a champion and prominent member of AEW’s World trios division since 2020. Insiders from Stamford have indicated their admiration for Hobbs’s capabilities and accomplishments, noting that he remains a figure of interest for future recruitment.
The exact terms of Hobbs’s contract with AEW remain undisclosed, leaving uncertainty about when or if WWE would have the opportunity to make a formal approach. This broader interest in AEW talent underlines WWE’s ongoing strategy of strengthening its lineup by targeting emerging and established stars from rival promotions.
What Awaits Gabe Kidd and the Wrestling Landscape?
Kidd’s next move is under close watch from fans, with his decision possibly affecting not just his own trajectory but also the competitive balance between wrestling’s top organizations. As WWE seeks to add fresh faces and standout personalities like Gabe Kidd to its brand, the implications for AEW and NJPW could be significant, shaping roster strategies and event storylines in the coming months. Wrestling enthusiasts will be keen to see whether Jon Moxley’s AEW partner will soon be making an impact inside a WWE ring.
“A lot of interest in Gabe Kidd in the United States.
Gabe Kidd is another one that they (WWE) want, I’m sure AEW wants, I’m sure New Japan wants. I’ve been hearing a lot about them because Gabe Kidd’s contract probably is up at the end of the month – I don’t know that 100… pic.twitter.com/vIzEvmUVHN
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) January 10, 2026
