Andrade Negotiates WWE Non-Compete Clause Amid AEW Move

Andrade is actively negotiating with WWE to lift his one-year non-compete clause, which he says was enforced after he made an appearance on AEW programming. In an interview with Deportes, published on March 15, 2024, Andrade expressed optimism about reaching an agreement. “My lawyers are already talking with WWE’s lawyers, and they’re reaching an agreement. I don’t know the exact date,” he stated.

The circumstances surrounding Andrade’s non-compete clause have drawn significant attention. He initially believed he was free of any contractual obligations until WWE informed him of the clause following his AEW appearance. “I got a warning because there are many medicines or supplements in Mexico that you can use, but over there you can’t,” Andrade added, referring to a previous Wellness policy violation that contributed to his departure from WWE.

Further insights regarding Andrade’s situation emerged during Thursday’s edition of Wrestling Observer Radio, where wrestling analysts Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez discussed the implications of his statements. Meltzer noted that WWE has discretion over enforcing the non-compete clause, which raises questions about its validity. “I would be very skeptical of some of it,” he remarked regarding Andrade’s claims.

Meltzer highlighted that while WWE initially imposed a one-year non-compete, it is unlikely they would enforce it for the full duration. He suggested that such a clause, if taken to court, would likely not hold up, especially under the conditions outlined by Andrade. “If there was a court fight that was threatened, they would probably have to stop, because there’s no way that they could keep him from wrestling for a year and not pay him,” he explained.

Andrade maintains that he was unaware of the non-compete clause when he signed with AEW, leading to potential complications in his contract negotiations. Meltzer speculated that Andrade may have assured AEW’s president, Tony Khan, that he was free to sign a contract despite the existing clause.

As discussions continue, Andrade’s future with AEW remains uncertain, but he appears determined to resolve his contractual obligations with WWE. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact his career trajectory in professional wrestling.

For those interested, the full episode of Wrestling Observer Radio featuring Meltzer and Alvarez is available to subscribers. Andrade’s interview with Deportes can also be accessed online for further details.