Major update on Shane McMahon’s WWE contract amidst rumors of AEW debut

Is Shane McMahon legally obligated from appearing in AEW?

Major update on Shane McMahon’s WWE contract amidst rumors of AEW debut

Shane McMahon WWE contract status amidst AEW rumors (via WWE and AEW)

There have been several rumors over the past few weeks about Shane McMahon possibly appearing in AEW. Many wondered whether, even if he could come to an agreement with AEW, he would be legally allowed to appear in a rival promotion by WWE. Fans have finally gotten an answer to this question.

As reported by Ringside News, McMahon was quietly let go from the company after the 2022 Royal Rumble. Although he made an appearance after this at WrestleMania 39, WWE never signed him to a contract. To this day, he is not under a talent contract, a Legends contract, or any other agreement with WWE. 

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The Boy Wonder is a part of the latest WWE 2K24 video game. However, this was done under a separate agreement. Hence, it would not give the WWE any legal obligation to prevent him from appearing in AEW.

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There were also reports that the son of the billionaire had already reached out to some AEW talent to discuss the possibility of his debut. However, it is unknown if he has had any contact with AEW higher-ups or AEW Head of Talent Relations, Christopher Daniels.

Why was Shane McMahon released from WWE in 2022?

Shane McMahon was initially a part of the creative booking team behind the 2022 Royal Rumble Men’s Royal Rumble match. However, Vince McMahon believed that his son was being too bossy. Further, he believed that the 54-year-old was dictating too much of the match. Shane’O’Mac also had issues with the company using stars like Bad Bunny.

Shane McMahon
Shane McMahon in the 2022 Royal Rumble (via WWE)

All these factors led to Vince McMahon kicking him off the booking team, and the match proceeded without his creative input. According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, the billionaire also told some people close to him that his son would never get a pop in his company ever again.

Shortly after, the Crown Prince of WWE was fired from the company without the intention of hiring him back ever again. Things changed after Triple H and the new regime took over the company. Thus, he was able to return to the company again for a match against The Miz at WrestleMania 39. 

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