Andrade is now free to sign with any wrestling promotion following the conclusion of his WWE contract and the waiving of his non-compete clause.
According to Fightful Select, Andrade’s deal with WWE officially ended on December 12, and those familiar with the situation have confirmed that he is no longer bound by a non-compete agreement. The report notes that assistance from Rush played a key role in resolving the matter.
Fightful reported that Rush introduced Andrade to an attorney and representative with extensive experience working alongside WWE. That connection helped facilitate an agreement which resulted in the Mexican star’s year-long non-compete clause being waived. He has not been paid by WWE since his release on September 13, and the two sides reportedly reached a settlement allowing him to sign with any promotion of his choosing.
As a result, Andrade is now free to negotiate with companies, including AEW. Fightful also noted that his WWE release had an impact on his immigration status, as his visa had been sponsored by the company. With that sponsorship ending, the visa was effectively terminated. Andrade is reportedly back in the United States, with his visa situation currently being addressed.
AEW president Tony Khan recently addressed Andrade’s status during the Worlds End media call, expressing respect for the former AEW star and confirming that interest exists on both sides. Khan did not indicate whether the former WWE United States Champion would appear at the upcoming pay-per-view.
Following Andrade’s surprise appearance in AEW alongside Don Callis, where he attacked Kenny Omega on October 1, it was reported that AEW worked to ensure the legal transition with WWE was handled carefully to avoid further complications.
Speculation around Andrade’s non-compete status intensified this week after he announced his return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling. He is scheduled to compete at Wrestle Kingdom 20 as a member of the United Empire, marking his first confirmed appearance since becoming a free agent.
How Long Was Andrade With WWE?
Andrade has been with WWE for a total of seven years across two runs with the company. His first stint started in 2015 when he joined NXT and had a successful run in the developmental brand, capturing the NXT Title in 2017 before moving up to the main roster in 2018. He departed WWE for the first time in 2021 and joined AEW that same year.
He returned to WWE in January 2024 as a surprise entrant in that year’s Royal Rumble match, but he would exit the promotion in September 2025 due to reported “numerous Wellness Policy violations.”
