According to a new report, WWE is not looking to bring Andrade back into the company, despite recent speculation that his non-compete clause was being used as leverage for a return.
In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer provided an update on the situation, citing sources within WWE. “For what this is worth, according to those in WWE, the rumors from last week that WWE is looking to now bring him back aren’t true. One person near the top who would likely know (although there are lots of secrets) said that he had never heard the name discussed. Another who would have to know said the story wasn’t true.”
Meltzer did add a note of caution, stating, “Keep in mind WWE is known for keeping some things that are big secret, but I don’t know if Andrade coming back qualifies in the category of the Rollins fake injury or the Lesnar return or the Cena heel turn or the Punk return.”
The Source of the Rumors
This new report directly contradicts a “belief” that had been circulating. A report from PWInsider previously noted the speculation regarding WWE’s motives. “There is a belief in some lucha circles that WWE is trying to use the leverage of the potential one-year no compete as a way to bring Andrade back into the fold,” the report stated, adding that while no one in WWE would confirm it, “that is the story making the rounds in Mexico.”
Andrade’s Career in Limbo
The entire situation stems from Andrade’s recent release from WWE and his attempt to return to AEW. Andrade made a surprise return to AEW on October 1, aligning with the Don Callis Family. He also competed in a match in Mexico shortly after.
However, WWE informed Andrade that he is still subject to a non-compete period, which many, including Andrade, were reportedly unaware of. As a result of a legal letter from WWE, Andrade’s October 1 AEW return is not being acknowledged on television.
Other reports have suggested this non-compete clause could be as long as one year, potentially part of a new TKO contract clause for talent who are “fired for cause”. This dispute has also impacted other promotions. Andrade was pulled from a scheduled match against LA Park for Mucha Lucha Atlanta on October 25 and did not wrestle at an advertised WWC event in Puerto Rico.
As of October 31, Andrade is still being advertised for independent dates, including a House of Glory show in Long Island, New York, on November 15. It remains to be seen if he will be permitted to appear as his non-compete status continues to be disputed.
