New details have emerged on the complicated status of Andrade, whose return to AEW has been halted by a non-compete clause from his WWE release. According to a report from PWInsider, Andrade continues to be advertised for upcoming independent dates in both Maine and New York, but there is no word on whether he will actually appear. This uncertainty follows an advertised appearance for WWC in Puerto Rico over the weekend, where he “did not wrestle”.
The report notes a new belief 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”. PWInsider stated that no one in WWE would confirm this, but noted, “that is the story making the rounds in Mexico.”
The situation stems from Andrade’s release from WWE. It was reportedly believed by many, including Andrade, that he was free to perform elsewhere immediately. This led to his surprise return to AEW on October 1, where he aligned with the Don Callis Family, and a subsequent match in Mexico. However, WWE has since informed Andrade that he is still subject to a non-compete period. Other reports have suggested this non-compete could be as long as one year, part of a new clause in TKO contracts for talent who are “fired for cause”.
As a result of the legal letter sent by WWE, Andrade’s October 1 AEW return is not being acknowledged on television. The non-compete has also affected other promotions. Andrade was pulled from a scheduled match against LA Park for Mucha Lucha Atlanta, which was set for October 25. Andrade has not commented on the situation.
The independent wrestling scene is still advertising Andrade for future dates. He is currently scheduled to appear for Big Time Wrestling on November 1, where he is booked to face Donovan Dijak. He is also advertised for a House of Glory show in Long Island, New York, on November 15. It remains unconfirmed if he will be permitted to appear at these events.
