New WWE/TKO Contracts Include year-Long Non-Compete Clause for Wrestlers Released “For Cause”
Andrade’s recent unexplained absence from AEW stems from a newly implemented clause in WWE/TKO contracts,stipulating a one-year non-compete period for wrestlers terminated for cause or breach of contract. The revelation explains why Andrade, who debuted for AEW on October 1 after his WWE release, has not appeared for the promotion since.
This contractual change significantly impacts talent leaving WWE, potentially restricting their ability to instantly work for rival companies. While previous WWE contracts contained similar provisions,the clause is now standard across all new TKO agreements.Wrestling observer Newsletter’s Bryan Alvarez reported the development after confirming the details with multiple sources, stating, “We have it confirmed through multiple sources that the new TKO contracts have a clause where if you are fired, there is a one-year non-compete. The older contracts had this but it’s standard now.” Alvarez also noted skepticism regarding the clause’s legal defensibility.
Andrade’s situation arose following his WWE release, which reports indicated was linked to multiple failures of the company’s wellness policy. He quickly signed with AEW and wrestled a match in Mexico on October 3, with bookings scheduled for WWC in Puerto Rico and Mucha Lucha in Atlanta. However, the Mucha Lucha appearance is no longer being advertised, suggesting the non-compete is currently being enforced.
The enforceability of such clauses remains a point of contention, but the new contract language presents a potential hurdle for wrestlers seeking immediate opportunities elsewhere after being released by WWE/TKO.
