With some enticing free agents still on the market, AEW could be picking up several new wrestlers in early 2026.
While speculation persists that there will be some departures ahead in AEW – including Chris Jericho – there could also be some intriguing talent on the verge of signing.
Here are seven potential free agents that could sign with AEW in the near future.
7. Wes Lee
A recent release from WWE that raised eyebrows was that of NXT star, Wes Lee.
A long-time fan favorite on the brand, Wes Lee held NXT Tag Team Championship gold as well as a notable run as NXT North American Champion.
Although he could also be set to return to TNA Wrestling, it could be great to see Lee join the field of high flying and fast moving stars in AEW.
Able to take on the likes of Will Ospreay and Ricochet in dream matches, Wes Lee could be a solid pick-up for Tony Khan.
Click the next page button below for more
6. Mad Dog Connelly
An indie star that continues to gain acclaim for his penchant for violence is Mad Dog Connelly.
Making a name in indie wrestling for his aggressive and hard hitting style, Connelly has garnered attention in West Coast Pro and beyond.
A professed ‘King of the Dog Collar match,’ Connelly could certainly bring his frightening edge to AEW after having recently appeared on an ROH crossover tribute show.
Seemingly a good fit for AEW’s hardcore style, Connelly could easily debut as a ruthless new hand for anyone currently on the roster or even a new member of Jon Moxley’s Death Riders.
Click the next page button below for more
5. Zayda Steel
While she appeared on WWE Evolve as a part of the WWE ID program, Zayda Steel didn’t make the leap to any appearances on NXT.
Even though the male members of the Vanity Project stable did appear on NXT, Steel was notably absent from making her way over to The CW with the rest of the squad including Swipe Right (Ricky Smokes & Brad Baylor) and WWE Evolve Champion Jackson Drake.
Recently confirming on social media that she elected to not re-sign with the WWE ID program, fans immediately wondered if it meant she was AEW bound instead.
With a recent report from Fightful Select noting that AEW had reached out to Steel after she announced her time with the WWE ID program had ended, it could be that fans end up seeing Zayda Steel debut on AEW Dynamite instead.
Click the next page button below for more
4. Karrion Kross
One of the most intriguing stories of the summer in professional wrestling was in regards to Karrion Kross’ WWE departure.
With their contracts expiring, Kross and his wife Scarlett would end up departing the company after a groundswell of support from fans.
Making an impact in his independent promotion appearances, Karrion Kross could be a name headed to AEW considering his level of fan support.
Able to make a contribution wherever he lands next, Kross could continue to dominate in the indies before signing with another promotion.
Click the next page button below for more
3. Dakota Kai
A free agent that fans continue to hope see make their return to in-ring action soon is Dakota Kai.
With veteran experience as well as being a fan favorite, there seems to be a lot of upside in signing Kai.
Able to fit in with an aggressive and technical style in AEW, she could quickly become a top contender in the women’s division.
Given her history of experience outside of WWE including STARDOM, she could be a potential surprise at any big upcoming AEW shows.
Click the next page button below for more
2. The IInspiration
Reportedly still appearing without a contract in TNA Wrestling, Knockouts Tag Team Champions The IInspiration could head back to WWE – but it is also possible they have their sights set elsewhere.
With the recent introduction of the AEW Women’s World Tag Team Championship, there could be a very important reason why Jess McKay and Cassie Lee would now consider signing with AEW.
Potentially able to continue their return story in AEW, the pair could come into the new women’s tag division and make an immediate impact.
Able to feature on TV and within the title picture quickly, perhaps The IInspiration would feel inspired to sign with Tony Khan instead of WWE.
Click the next page button below for more
1. Cedric Alexander
Ruling in WWE during the pandemic era of programming as the Hurt Business, the faction of Bobby Lashley, Cedric Alexander, Shelton Benjamin and MVP were fan favorites.
After departing WWE in February 2025, Cedric Alexander spent time in TNA Wrestling and reinvented his singles persona.
Bringing veteran technical skills as well as a charismatic on-screen presence, Alexander would be a solid get for AEW even without the obvious connection to the Hurt Syndicate.
With fans still hopeful that Alexander will join forces with his former stable and reunite with the rest of Hurt Syndicate in AEW, it could be that Alexander will be the next former WWE star to sign with the promotion.
To make sure you stay up to date with all the biggest wrestling and WrestleTalk news, follow us on Threads by clicking this link!
Comments.
Loading comments…