2021 has seen WWE adding a number of talents to its roster, at the same time struggling to keep some already established ones.
Top Superstar Becky Lynch decided to temporarily withdraw from WWE without considering joining any other wrestling federation. Seth Rollins, her husband, still maintains his alliance with WWE. Simultaneously, Ricochet, a former WWE talent, chose to continue his wrestling career with AEW.
On the brighter side, WWE managed to secure contract renewals with some key talent, including Drew McIntyre, Seth Rollins, Asuka, Natalya, Humberto Carrillo, Angel Garza, and recently Sheamus. A potential negotiation awaits with Kevin Owens as his contract heads towards its expiration date in a few months.
Interesting reports from Fightful Select suggest that WWE is now more proactive, reaching out to several Superstars for contract extensions, marking a transformation from their rather relaxed strategy from earlier in the year.
One of the major names on this contract negotiation list is Owens. Reports from inside WWE affirm that “The Prizefighter” has been approached regarding a new contract proposal but hasn’t come to any definitive conclusion.
Owens shared in May that his current WWE contract had a validity of only nine more months. With the countdown getting serious, WWE is desperate to secure him before he attracts other wrestling organizations, specifically AEW.
Word is, AEW has had their eyes on Owens for a while with significant intent to onboard the ex WWE Universal Champion if he steps into free agency.
Should Owens decide against renewing his WWE contract, speculation is that AEW will table a hefty offer depicting their keen interest in adding him to their roster.
It’s worth remembering, AEW missed its opportunity to sign Owens back in 2021.
According to the report, “Kevin Owens has been approached for a new contract. We’re told that Owens has not signed a new deal as of yet, but communication has been made. His contract is expected to be up at the end of the year…Those that we spoke to in AEW said that the company has long had major interest in bringing Owens in when and if he’s available. They’re expected to make him an offer if he reaches free agency.”