The wrestling world is abuzz as WWE reportedly has its sights set on a Tony Khan AEW tag team that has been absent from the spotlight for almost a year. Private Party, consisting of Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen, last competed on AEW Dynamite over 350 days ago, sparking speculation about their future with All Elite Wrestling.
Private Party’s Extended Absence and AEW Status
Private Party captured fans’ attention with their energetic performances and memorable matches since joining AEW, but their latest televised appearance came on January 22, 2025. On that night, they lost the All Elite Wrestling Tag Team Championships to The Hurt Syndicate—Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin. Since then, both Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen have been missing from TV, fueling rumors that their contracts might have expired and igniting widespread curiosity about their status.
Despite speculation, reports suggest Private Party remain under contract with AEW, and their absence is not due to expired agreements. This situation highlights a recurring problem for performers on Tony Khan’s loaded AEW roster, where even established acts can find themselves on the sidelines as new faces arrive and storylines continuously evolve.
Contract Clarity and WWE’s Growing Interest
Sean Ross Sapp addressed the situation during a Fightful Select Q&A, emphasizing the confusion around the timing of Private Party’s contracts. He explained that, contrary to fan assumptions, not all contracts in AEW expire at the same interval. This further complicated rumors about their supposed free agency. Sapp explained:
“So I’m not trying to take a shot at anybody here, but like, if I were to report that somebody’s contract was coming up soon, I would think it would be within six months. Now maybe they were extended or injury time was added since then or something like that. But everybody seemed to think that their deals were going to be up well by now.”
– Sean Ross Sapp, Wrestling Journalist
Adding further detail, Sapp noted that the contracts for Kassidy and Quen do not expire simultaneously, creating uncertainty about their joint future. Sapp also confirmed that WWE has shown interest in acquiring the duo, assuming that this interest persists due to their experience and established chemistry as a tag team. He stated:
“But then I was told their contracts don’t actually match up—like they’re up at different times. There was interest from WWE. I don’t know if—I mean, I can only assume that that interest is maintained. Like, I think they would be great to immediately put on NXT. And I know a lot of people will say, well, they don’t need to be there. Well, they’re perfect for NXT. Hate to tell you guys. Shawn Michaels would have a ball booking them, because they can wrestle, they’ve got built-in characters already, they’ve got TV experience—that’s what NXT wants.”
– Sean Ross Sapp, Wrestling Journalist
This endorsement for a move to WWE’s NXT brand reflects the team’s reputation as seasoned performers who could immediately contribute to televised wrestling in a new setting. Sapp argued that their time in AEW and independent promotions has provided them the skill set and charisma NXT seeks.
Recent Sightings and The Road Ahead
Though they have not appeared on television, there have been hints about Private Party’s whereabouts. Sapp revealed that Marq Quen was recently seen backstage at an AEW event, yet no major updates have surfaced about a potential return or future plans. As Sapp put it:
“But Mark Quen was backstage at an AEW event like a couple months ago, but I haven’t heard much since then.”
– Sean Ross Sapp, Wrestling Journalist, h/t: Ringside News
While fans await official news, it is clear that Private Party are still affiliated with AEW for the time being. However, with Tony Khan and his creative team yet to announce anything for Kassidy and Quen, the possibility of WWE extending an offer—and the duo making a fresh start in Florida’s NXT division—remains a compelling narrative for the months ahead.
What Comes Next for Private Party?
The question now facing wrestling fans is whether Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen eventually return to AEW programming or decide to transition to WWE’s NXT. With their contracts reportedly staggered and AEW’s plans unclear, their future continues to stir debate and anticipation. Either outcome could significantly impact both companies’ tag team divisions, as Private Party’s blend of wrestling ability and character work would inject fresh energy wherever they land. For now, the wrestling community will be watching closely, ready for the next move in this ongoing saga involving Tony Khan, AEW, and WWE.
