Nigel McGuinness is staying put in All Elite Wrestling, and hes not just sticking to the commentary desk.
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the veteran announcer and former world champion has signed a new contract with AEW that will keep him with the company long-term. While his main role will continue to be behind the microphone, the updated deal also opens the door for occasional in-ring appearances.
The structure of McGuinnesss new contract is said to be similar to his previous deal, but with new terms that specifically allow him to wrestle when the storyline fits. AEW reportedly wanted to strike a balancekeeping McGuinness active as a lead voice on AEW Collision and Ring of Honor broadcasts, while also giving him room to perform in special attraction matches.
This arrangement has worked well since McGuinness made his surprise return to action in 2024, marking his first official matches in over a decade. His in-ring career had previously been cut short due to health concerns in the early 2010s, but his comeback has been well-received. Since returning, hes appeared at several major AEW events, including All In: London, Double or Nothing, and Forbidden Door. His most recent match was against Zack Sabre Jr. at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door 2025a bout that was praised by fans for its technical execution.
Despite the in-ring clause in his new contract, McGuinness has no plans to resume a full-time wrestling schedule. His focus remains on his work as a commentator, where hes become one of AEWs most respected voices.
Nigel McGuinness continues to prove hes a rare hybrid talentsomeone who can still step in the ring when it counts, while elevating AEWs product with sharp analysis and experience behind the mic.
Do you want to see Nigel wrestle more often, or should AEW use him strictly as a commentator? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
