Legal restrictions could keep the former WWE star from returning to AEW for months
Summary
– Tony Khan commented on Andrade El Idolo’s AEW status but avoided contract details
– Reports suggest a WWE non-compete clause may be preventing Andrade’s in-ring return
– WWE’s new TKO contracts reportedly extend non-competes to a full year if rules are violated
Tony Khan has finally discussed the uncertainty surrounding Andrade El Idolo’s AEW future. During the AEW WrestleDream media call, the AEW President was asked directly about Andrade’s contract status. He offered praise for the performer but little clarity on whether he is free to compete.
“I asked Tony Khan about Andrade’s current situation with AEW,” journalist Jon Alba shared. “He had high praise for Andrade when he left AEW in 2023. I followed up and asked directly if he was under contract or tied to a WWE non-compete. He said that was all he could say at this time.”
That silence has fueled speculation that a WWE clause may still restrict Andrade. Reports indicate the issue stems from a one-year non-compete connected to his previous WWE deal, allegedly activated after a contract breach. If true, Andrade could remain sidelined well into next year unless the matter is resolved legally.
Bryan Alvarez revealed that WWE’s current contracts under TKO Group Holdings include a new standard: a one-year non-compete period for any talent terminated for rule violations. “We’ve confirmed through multiple sources that the new TKO contracts include this clause,” Alvarez said. “It’s standard now, and that’s what’s holding up Andrade. There’s skepticism about whether it would stand up in court, but it’s written in.”
This case could become a precedent for future disputes involving the TKO-era contracts. WWE’s non-competes have faced legal challenges before, including Brock Lesnar’s battle over his in 2004. Whether Andrade fights this in court or waits out the restriction remains unclear.
For now, AEW and Tony Khan are staying quiet while fans wait to see when, or if, Andrade El Idolo will make his long-awaited return to the ring.
