Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin sign with AEW following their WWE departure
Summary
– Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin officially signed with AEW
– The Motor City Machine Guns returned during AEW Collision in Detroit
– Their WWE non-compete periods recently expired following their April releases
The Motor City Machine Guns have officially joined AEW. Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin opened the July 31 episode of AEW Collision in Detroit by announcing that they had signed with the company.
Shelley and Sabin described AEW as their new home before the promotion welcomed them with its traditional All Elite announcement. Their arrival came shortly after the 90-day non-compete periods connected to their WWE releases expired.
The decorated team previously appeared for AEW at All Out 2022. They joined Jay Lethal against FTR and Wardlow in a six-man tag team match, but did not remain with the promotion afterward.
Shelley and Sabin bring decades of experience to AEW’s tag team division. The duo has captured championships throughout NJPW, TNA, ROH, and several independent promotions.
Returning to Detroit gave the announcement additional significance because of the team’s deep connection to the Motor City. Their signing now opens the door for fresh matches against AEW’s established and emerging teams.
WHAT A WAY TO KICK OFF COLLISION IN THE MOTOR CITY!
Motor City Machine Guns (@AlexShelley313 & @SuperChrisSabin) are here!
Watch #AEWCollision LIVE on TNT & HBO Max pic.twitter.com/ZYhRD01ptv
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) July 31, 2026
