Backstage News on Andrade’s AEW Return and Contract – As noted, Andrade made his shocking AEW return on the October 1 episode of Dynamite, which doubled as the company’s six-year anniversary special from Hollywood, Florida. After Kenny Omega’s opening match, Andrade stormed the ring and attacked Omega before immediately aligning himself with Don Callis as the newest member of the ever-growing Don Callis Family.
Following his surprise return, one backstage source confirmed that Andrade has officially signed a full-time deal with AEW. His arrival has quickly become one of the most discussed topics among fans, particularly because of how swiftly he reappeared on television after leaving WWE.
Normally, WWE contracts include a 90-day non-compete clause, which restricts talent from appearing in other promotions right after being released. Andrade’s case, however, was different. Multiple WWE sources revealed that his release was directly tied to repeated Wellness Policy violations over the past year. Instead of handing down another suspension or paying him through the non-compete period, WWE chose to cut ties completely. That decision made Andrade “free and clear” the moment his release paperwork was finalized, allowing him to sign elsewhere without restrictions.
Evidence of his immediate availability was seen almost instantly, as Andrade began lining up independent bookings in both Mexico and the United States just weeks after his departure. According to reports, WWE deliberately opted against paying him through the traditional 90-day window, choosing instead to let him walk away entirely.
This situation also highlights a shift in WWE’s handling of Wellness Policy matters. In previous years, suspensions were openly announced to the public, but that practice has largely disappeared. Andrade’s exit appears to further confirm that WWE is quietly moving away from publicizing such disciplinary actions.
For Andrade, the timing worked in his favor. His release has opened the door for a new chapter in AEW, where he now stands as a central figure in the Don Callis Family storyline. Meanwhile, WWE’s decision has sparked questions about transparency and accountability regarding its Wellness Policy enforcement.
On Thursday, Andrade addressed his return and personal journey in a heartfelt post on X. Sharing a childhood photo with his mother, he wrote: “Thank you God, thank you Mom, and also to you, brother, because you and I are one and the same, for this new day, for the blessings you have given me, and for the strength you give me to keep moving forward. I also want to thank all the fans, friends, and family for all the support, whether in comments or messages.”
He ended his message with a powerful note: “May no one clip your wings.”
Backstage News on Andrade’s AEW Return and Contract
