Andrade’s AEW return started with a bang — and then silence. After a shocking attack on Kenny Omega, the star has vanished from AEW programming and canceled multiple appearances. Now, new backstage reports suggest WWE might be behind his sudden disappearance.
Andrade’s second run with AEW has hit a roadblock just weeks after his big return. The former WWE standout shocked fans when he attacked Kenny Omega on AEW television, seemingly setting the stage for a major storyline. But since that night, Andrade has been nowhere to be found — not on TV, not in the ring, and not even on his scheduled independent shows.
According to Wrestling Observer Radio, the reason may be tied to an unexpected issue with WWE. Bryan Alvarez reported that Andrade’s absence has nothing to do with injury or discipline, but rather a non-compete clause stemming from his recent WWE release.
“I was told he is not hurt, he didn’t get himself fired,” Alvarez said. “But apparently something is up involving his WWE non-compete… AEW might’ve thought they could get this worked out in time to get the Omega match on, but it didn’t happen.”
Dave Meltzer added that AEW and even some within WWE believed Andrade had no non-compete period. However, WWE reportedly later informed AEW that Andrade is still restricted from appearing on wrestling television for 90 days — a development that seemingly blindsided everyone involved.
“AEW obviously believed there was no non-compete,” Meltzer noted. “Even some people in WWE thought there wasn’t one. But apparently, WWE said he can’t do anything for 90 days.”
WWE Clarified Andrade’s Status After He Took Indie Bookings
PWInsider Elite later reported that both Andrade and WWE initially operated under the impression that his release allowed him to compete immediately since he wasn’t receiving the standard 90-day pay. However, once Andrade began accepting independent dates, WWE clarified that he was still bound by a non-compete restriction.
Whether this was a change in direction or just a case of miscommunication isn’t clear. One WWE insider told PWInsider the company wants to avoid creating a loophole where talent could leave under controversial circumstances and immediately jump to another promotion.
Impact On Andrade’s AEW and Independent Plans
If the 90-day non-compete is enforced, Andrade will be sidelined until early next year, delaying his AEW storyline indefinitely. He’s also expected to miss several upcoming shows, including an event in Puerto Rico this weekend and an appearance for The Crash in Tijuana — where he currently reigns as Heavyweight Champion.
That leaves the future of The Crash title uncertain, especially since Andrade only captured the belt from DMT Azul shortly after reappearing in AEW.
For now, fans can only wait to see when Andrade will finally be cleared to return to the ring. His comeback may have started strong, but this legal roadblock has left one of AEW’s most intriguing returns stuck in neutral.
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