In a year when WWE signed many talents to its roster, it also faced challenges in retaining others.
Becky Lynch stepped away from WWE for an indefinite hiatus without any intention of joining another wrestling promotion despite being a top Superstar for several years. Her husband, Seth Rollins, continues to work for WWE. Meanwhile, Ricochet left the company to join AEW.
Meanwhile, WWE has successfully renewed contracts with Drew McIntyre, Seth Rollins, Asuka, Natalya, Humberto Carrillo, Angel Garza, and, most recently, Sheamus. The company will also need to negotiate a new deal with Kevin Owens, as his contract expires in a few months.
Fightful Select is reporting that WWE has contacted several Superstars about extending their contracts, indicating a shift from their laid-back approach earlier this year.
Owens is one of the prominent names in these contract negotiations. A source within WWE confirmed that The Prizefighter has been approached for a new deal but has not yet committed to anything.
Owens announced in May that his current WWE deal had only nine months left. With time running out, WWE is eager to lock him in before other wrestling companies, particularly AEW, show interest.
AEW has reportedly been monitoring Owens for some time. According to sources, AEW has demonstrated significant interest in recruiting the former WWE Universal Champion if he becomes a free agent.
If Owens chooses not to renew his contract with WWE, AEW is expected to make a substantial offer to entice him to join their roster.
As you may know, AEW previously passed up the chance to sign Owens in 2021.
The report states, “Kevin Owens has been approached for a new contract. We’re told that Owens has not signed a new deal as of yet, but communication has been made. His contract is expected to be up at the end of the year…Those that we spoke to in AEW said that the company has long had major interest in bringing Owens in when and if he’s available. They’re expected to make him an offer if he reaches free agency.”
