Eleven Former WWE Performers Enter Free Agency Following Non-Compete Expiry
Aleister Black and other released stars are now eligible to sign with All Elite Wrestling, Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, or New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
Eleven former WWE performers, including Aleister Black, have officially entered the free agent market following the expiration of their 90-day non-compete clauses. The individuals were released during WWE’s April layoffs, a period of restructuring that followed WrestleMania. The group comprises several members of the Wyatt Six, the Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin), and a trio of women’s wrestlers.
Potential destinations for this talent pool include All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. However, industry analysts note that these performers face significant structural challenges, including roster saturation at major promotions and declining conditions within the independent wrestling scene.
Wega, who was released for the second time and informed of her departure by parent company TKO, has already filed a trademark for the name “Xelina.” She is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents in this group, alongside Saine. Saine was released mid-storyline with Asuka and Iyo Sky; reports had suggested a potential appearance at WWE Backlash in May to conclude the narrative, but this did not materialise.
The Motor City Machine Guns are viewed as a strong fit for AEW’s tag team division, alongside teams such as The Young Bucks and Christian Cage and Adam Copeland. TNA, where the duo has historically found success, remains a logical destination, although WWE’s current working relationship with TNA may complicate such a move.
High-profile stars The New Day (Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston) and Sheamus are expected to become available on the free agent market soon, though they are not part of the current eleven. Under TKO’s leadership, WWE has reportedly asked top stars to take significant pay cuts earlier in the year, a strategy that has led to the release of major talent and a more saturated free agent market.
WWE continues to move forward with its current roster, which includes numerous recent NXT call-ups. This article was originally published on Forbes.com and sourced via Yahoo Sports.
