Bray Wyatt Was In Talks With AEW Prior To WWE Return
Bray Wyatt did have discussions with AEW during his WWE absence, but ultimately a deal was never reached.
The wrestling world is still reeling from the terrible news of last Thursday, August 24th when we learned that WWE Superstar Bray Wyatt had passed away at the age of 36. Bray’s real name was Windham Rotunda.
Unfortunately, Bray suffered from a serious bout of COVID-19 earlier this year. While there was optimism that he could overcome it to return to the WWE ring, that didn’t happen. Bray died at home while taking a nap. It was recommended by a doctor that he wear a defibrillator, but he wasn’t wearing it at the time of his nap.
Most fans will remember Windham Rotunda for his portrayal of Bray Wyatt. His WWE journey started in 2009, then he started with other gimmicks like Husky Harris and then he took as Bray Wyatt. Bray would go on to become a WWE Champion and two-time WWE Universal Champion while also portraying the unique character known as “The Fiend” as well.
In July 2021, WWE shocking released Bray Wyatt even though he was a main event performer who was still in the prime of his career. In October 2022, Bray Wyatt returned to WWE after more than a year away.
AEW Was Interested In Signing Bray Wyatt
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter wrote this week that while Bray was out of WWE, there was interest shown from other companies including All Elite Wrestling.
“He never wrestled for the next year even with great demand for him from other companies. At one point TNT was told of a date for him to debut in AEW, but it fell through, believed to be money related. Impact was interested as was AAA and Japanese groups. He did nothing and then pushed the idea of him returning using the name Windham6. He pushed the name in social media but before ever using it, he went back to the old character, signifying a return to WWE upcoming.”
While Bray Wyatt never worked for AEW, he did have a lot of friends there. The company issued this statement following his death.
“AEW joins the entire wrestling world in mourning the loss of Windham Rotunda, aka Bray Wyatt. A third-generation wrestler, Windham proudly carried on his family’s legacy by forging his own incredible path to superstardom.
“Windham’s unique style and persona showcased his passion for the industry and desire for innovation.
“AEW sends its deepest condolences to Windham’s family, friends and fans. We are forever grateful for all his incredible contributions to the industry.”
One of Bray Wyatt’s best friends was Brodie Lee (real name Jon Huber), who was part of the Wyatt Family in WWE as Luke Harper. When Brodie passed away in December 2020, that death really affected Bray as well as many others in the pro wrestling business.