The professional wrestling world was left reeling when CM Punk made a shocking return to WWE at Survivor Series 2023, just a few months after his abrupt exit from All Elite Wrestling (AEW). The move has sparked speculation about other AEW talent potentially making the jump to WWE. With Punk and Cody Rhodes already having made the switch, could we see other AEW stars following in their footsteps?
We examine four AEW wrestlers who could benefit from a change of scenery and potentially thrive in WWE.
First up is Wardlow, a talented and misused star in AEW. Despite winning the TNT Championship multiple times, Wardlow’s momentum has stalled since his feud with MJF in 2022. A move to WWE could be the fresh start he needs, especially with Punk already familiar with him from their AEW days.
Next is Ricky Starks, who has seemingly vanished from AEW television since losing the AEW Tag Team Championship. With rumors of his contract expiring soon, a move to WWE could be on the cards. As a close friend of Cody Rhodes and CM Punk, Starks could thrive in NXT or eventually join the main roster.
FTR, comprised of Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler, are no strangers to WWE, having gained prominence in NXT under Triple H’s guidance. Despite their success in AEW, they have been victims of start-and-stop pushes and questionable bookings. A return to WWE, where they have a strong rapport with Punk and Triple H, could be the boost they need to reach the top.
Last but not least is Malakai Black, whose AEW booking has been curious to say the least. Despite debuting to great fanfare in 2021, he has struggled to gain momentum as a singles competitor. A move to WWE could give him a fresh start and a chance to reignite his career under Triple H’s creative guidance.
As the wrestling terrain continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see if any of these four AEW stars make the jump to WWE. With Punk and Rhodes already having paved the way, the door is open for others to follow in their footsteps. Only time will tell if these talented wrestlers will take the leap and start a new chapter in their careers.
