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There has been a significant development regarding WWE’s growing involvement with Lucha Libre promotion, AAA, although the situation is more complex than it may seem.
According to Dave Meltzer in today’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, several stars from AAA have signed agreements with WWE, including Microman, La Hiedra, La Parka, Faby Apache, Nino Hamburgesa, Mesias, and Lady Flammer.
Meltzer indicated that this move could be a strategic effort to secure WWE talent that might otherwise appear in AEW, especially as WWE aims to expand its international content. He stated:
“I firmly believe that everyone featured in the TripleMania event is under a WWE contract because WWE controls the company and has no one available who can legally join AEW.”
However, Cassidy Haynes from bodyslam.net reached out to a source with insights about the deals, revealing a different perspective.
According to Haynes’ sources, the WWE agreements signed by the aforementioned AAA talents are primarily for merchandise purposes. The talents remain contracted to AAA, allowing them to continue accepting independent wrestling dates unless the situation changes.
“Currently, the latest WWE contracts signed by certain AAA wrestlers are for merchandise only, and they are still contractually bound to AAA.”
In contrast to other previously reported transactions, such as those involving Wagner Jr., notable names like Psycho Clown, Mr. Iguana, and Dr. Wagner are exclusive to WWE and cannot work outside shows, whereas the new AAA signings are not yet bound in this way.
One source mentioned that circumstances could change quickly, as WWE has the power to modify these arrangements and bring those wrestlers into the company if they desire.
“I was told that everything is subject to change at any time, but for now, AAA-contracted talents can still book external appearances.”
In conclusion, while WWE hasn’t fully locked down these AAA stars yet, they have begun to stake their claim on merchandise, indicating strategic moves are underway. The question is not whether WWE will bring them in full-time, but rather when that will happen.
Do you think WWE’s approach is a gradual strategy to fully acquire AAA talent, or is this partnership merely about branding? Share your thoughts!
Fan Take: This news is crucial for wrestling fans as it hints at a potential shift in talent dynamics between major promotions, affecting the landscape of wrestling entertainment. The ongoing negotiations could redefine alliances and create new opportunities or rivalries, making it an exciting time for fans to watch how this unfolds.
