Amidst ongoing contract discussions within WWE, several current wrestlers have the potential to sign with AEW. While some stars seem to be holding out for new contracts, there remain intriguing possibilities for surprise departures.
Currently, six WWE wrestlers are considered likely candidates to join AEW in the near future.
One notable example is Shinsuke Nakamura. Rumors from May 2025 suggest that Nakamura’s WWE contract has expired and that WWE has no plans to renew it. Although specific details or timelines for the contract’s end haven’t been confirmed, official statements from both WWE and Nakamura acknowledge his status. He still appears on WWE’s Active Roster, but given his limited recent appearances, many expect Nakamura to eventually leave WWE. There are no clear reports on when this might happen, but a surprise debut by Nakamura at AEW Forbidden Door 2025 would certainly make waves.
Fan Take: This development excites AEW fans because adding a high-profile star like Nakamura could significantly boost AEW’s roster depth and global appeal. Such a move would not only intensify the competition between WWE and AEW but also enrich the wrestling landscape with fresh rivalries and storylines.
