Andrade is reportedly no longer bound to a non-compete clause.
Back in October, Andrade stunned fans by returning to AEW Dynamite just weeks after his departure from WWE. Shortly afterwards, it emerged that he was subject to a non-compete clause that could have potentially sidelined him for up to a year due to a breach of his deal. However, after appearing for World Wrestling Council on December 13 and being announced for Wrestle Kingdom 20, there has now been clarification on Andrade’s status.
According to a new update from Fightful Select, it is believed that Andrade’s deal with WWE ended on 12 December, freeing him to sign with any other company, including AEW. It was noted that Rush helped to secure legal representation that worked closely with WWE and was able to challenge the non-compete clause.
“Fightful confirmed with those familiar with the situation he is also eligible to sign with AEW, TNA, AAA, CMLL — any company he wishes to. It was stated that his deal with WWE officially came to an end around December 12. We’re told that Rush introduced Andrade to an attorney and rep that has worked closely with WWE for years, and helped get the year-long non compete waived.”
-Fightful Select
To date, Andrade’s appearance for World Wrestling Council remains the only match he has contested since news of his non compete clause emerged, though he also made a surprise appearance at last weekend’s House of Glory show to attack reigning world champion Charles Mason. Fightful added that Andrade’s visa situation is now being addressed following the termination of WWE’s sponsorship upon his departure, leaving the timing of any potential return to AEW unclear.
Earlier today, Andrade was announced as a member of United Empire’s team for a ten-man tag match against David Finlay, Gabe Kidd, Hiromu Takahashi, Shingo Takagi, and Drilla Moloney at Wrestle Kingdom 20, marking his first NJPW appearance in more than a decade.
As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on Andrade’s status as soon as we hear more.
