Sheamus addresses potential AEW move; retirement chatter post-WWE exit
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Multiple big names have jumped ship to AEW.
There have been many moves made by wrestlers from WWE to AEW in the past, with established wrestlers making their moves to different platforms where they get new opportunities. Sheamus might be the next big name that will switch sides after leaving WWE after nearly two decades.
He is a free agent starting October 1, 2026, after the expiration of his contract, and rumors suggest that he might join All Elite Wrestling in the coming days due to his experiences with different wrestlers who perform in the promotion.
On the other hand, although the chances of a move remain exciting, the star in discussion has now announced his plans for the near future.
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Sheamus addresses speculation about joining AEW after WWE exit
In his recent public appearance, the reporter was introduced as an ex-luchador. But the Celtic Warrior indicated that he is enjoying the break following his departure from the company. He did not confirm whether he intends to join AEW, but his latest comments suggest that he is in no hurry to make a decision about his wrestling future.
“Did you say ex-luchador? I’m just taking time off. I’m just chilling, I’m just relaxing. I’m on a vacation. A long vacation.”
The former Champion officially became a free agent once his contract with the promotion expired on October 1. His exit from the company happened following reports that he refused a new contract extension that had been offered to him by the firm. He had been with WWE for more than 20 years, building a name as one of their star wrestlers.
Sheamus left the Stamford-based promotion with several accolades earned in his career spanning nearly 20 years. He was a member of the main roster from 2009 onwards and was crowned the first WWE Champion, beating John Cena at TLC pay-per-view in December 2009.
The megastar became a three-time Champion and also won the World Heavyweight Championship one time in his illustrious career. His biggest career highlights included victory at the 2012 Royal Rumble, 2010 King of the Ring, and 2015 Money in the Bank ladder match.
Collaborating with Cesaro, he captured the Raw and SmackDown Tag Team Championships and established a reputation for having hard-hitting matches. He made his last appearance for the Stamford-based promotion on November 17, 2025, alongside John Cena and Rey Mysterio as part of a six-man tag team to win against The Judgment Day on RAW. A shoulder injury forced him out of competing.
The potential move has attracted much attention due to the fact that many popular wrestlers in the organization are interested in seeing him there. This particular wrestler has reportedly talked to other organizations, but he hasn’t talked directly to All Elite Wrestling yet.
It is noteworthy that the wrestler hasn’t responded positively or negatively to the move. On the contrary, all he has mentioned publicly is how much he enjoys taking a break.
Sheamus attends Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich watch party, answers the AEW question
Talking about ‘enjoying the time off’, the superstar recently attended a watch party for the Bundesliga clash between Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, where he was introduced as an “ex-luchador” during an interaction with Telemundo Deportes.
He also explained his love for soccer, which started back during the pandemic period, and how Jürgen Klopp influenced him to turn toward European football. He supports Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, teams managed by Klopp.
During the watch party, a fan also asked whether he had any plans to join AEW. The Celtic Warrior replied that he was simply enjoying his time off and jokingly suggested that the fan ask his wife about it.
Moving back to his profession, his next destination remains a subject of discussion among wrestling fans. All Elite Wrestling could offer him fresh rivalries and the opportunity to reunite with familiar names such as Claudio Castagnoli. TNA has also reportedly shown interest in the Celtic Warrior.
For now, the megastar appears comfortable taking a break after a lengthy wrestling career. Whether he eventually chooses his next destination, his decision will remain one of the most interesting free-agent stories in professional wrestling.
Has Sheamus confirmed that he is joining AEW?
No, the star has neither confirmed nor ruled out an All Elite Wrestling move.
When did Sheamus become a free agent after leaving WWE?
The former champion officially became a free agent on October 1, 2026, after his contract with the Stamford-based promotion expired.
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