Hikaru Shida Re-Signs with AEW on Multi-Year Deal – Former AEW Women’s World Champion Hikaru Shida has officially re-signed with All Elite Wrestling, securing her future with the company under a new multi-year contract. According to a report from Fightful Select, the deal ensures that one of AEW’s most respected veterans and original stars of the women’s division will continue to be a cornerstone of the promotion for years to come. Sources also noted that the 37-year-old Shida is “well-liked” backstage and was “missed” by many within the locker room during her recent absence while resolving work visa complications.
Shida’s re-signing comes shortly after she publicly confirmed that she was not retiring—a rumor that began circulating after she took part in a Japanese stage production portraying a retiring wrestler. The new contract officially puts those rumors to rest, affirming Shida’s ongoing commitment to AEW and its women’s division.
The Fightful Select report further addressed Shida’s absence from the AEW Worlds End 2024 pay-per-view, which was held near her residence at the time. Her non-participation reportedly “raised eyebrows” backstage, though insiders now indicate that relations between Shida and AEW management are “smooth sailing” and that she is preparing to return to the United States for upcoming appearances on AEW programming.
Hikaru Shida remains one of the most accomplished wrestlers in AEW history. She holds the record for the longest single AEW Women’s World Championship reign at 372 days—a stretch that anchored the division throughout the pandemic era. Additionally, she is the only three-time AEW Women’s World Champion in the company’s history. Her most recent AEW match occurred in November 2024, where she fell short against current champion Kris Statlander.
With her visa issues now resolved and her new long-term deal in place, Shida’s return adds significant depth to an already stacked AEW women’s division. Fans can expect the “Full Metal” star to make a major impact upon her comeback, reminding everyone why she remains one of the most respected and decorated figures in AEW’s women’s roster.
Hikaru Shida Re-Signs with AEW on Multi-Year Deal
