WWE has reportedly stepped in to block Andrade El Idolos return to AEW, even after initially giving the impression that he was free to wrestle.
According to PWInsider, WWE clarified after his AEW appearance that he was still under a 90-day non-compete clauseeven though hes not being paid during that time.
The situation became a legal gray area, and WWE made sure to shut it down fast. Internally, WWE first believed Andrade had been released outright, meaning he wouldnt be paid his 90 days and was free to perform elsewhere. But once he returned to AEW TV earlier this month, the company clarified to Andrade that he was still subject to the no-compete period.
One WWE source explained the logic, saying the company didnt want a system where someone could leave due to violating policies and then end up elsewhere the next day. It was described as a loophole WWE wasnt willing to let slide.
Andrade shocked AEW fans when he aligned himself with the Don Callis Family and blindsided Kenny Omega, looking like a major new player in the companys top storyline. But that return was cut short almost immediately, with no explanation from AEW or Andrade.
Dave Meltzer revealed on the October 16 episode of Wrestling Observer Radio that AEW believed Andrade was good to go. WWE even had people internally who also thought he had no restrictions. That changed quickly once lawyers got involved.
Prior to Meltzers report, Fightful Select noted that Andrade had been pulled from AEW events, but no one close to the situation offered a reason. He was reportedly in good spirits, and no blame was placed on him or AEW.
Now, it seems WWEs legal move has temporarily iced Andrades AEW momentum. He may not be back until the end of that 90-day windoweven though hes not collecting a check for it.
Is WWE just flexing control over its former talent, or was AEW too quick to bring Andrade back? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
