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Former WWE Star Working Backstage In AEW – Reports

By Sunil Joseph • Published Jul 17, 2026 15:10 EDT
AEW WWE
Ex-AEW has interest from WWE (Image via-X/@AEW, @WWE)

A former WWE star has been reportedly working backstage in AEW.

Sami Callihan was best known for his time in TNA Wrestling. He worked with the promotion for several years and was a regular feature on TV. During his time in the company, Sami Callihan won the Impact World Championship one time.

He was involved in many memorable feuds and matches. He was involved in a heated and memorable feud with Tessa Blanchard. The two of them delivered a spectacular match at Slammiversary XVII. This bout was even named Match of the Year in 2019. After spending several years with TNA Wrestling, Sami Callihan was suddenly released from his contract. Sami Callihan even opened up about his release, stating that he thought he was going to be added to TNA’s creative team only to find out that he was fired by the promotion. However, it looks like he might’ve gotten work elsewhere.

Sami Callihan has been working backstage in AEW

According to a report from Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net, Sami Callihan has been working backstage at Dynamite tapings for the last three weeks. It was also reported that he will be at Collision this week. He has taken on the role of a backstage producer. However, sources within the company believe that he hasn’t signed a contract with Tony Khan’s company yet.

“Sami Callihan has been working backstage the last three weeks for AEW Dynamite tapings, and will be at AEW Collision tonight in Boston. It was noted that he has seemingly been working as a backstage producer. When asked if Callihan had officially signed a contract with AEW, sources related that “it doesn’t seem like he has a contract yet.” [H/T WrestlePurists on X]

Sami Callihan’s experience will make for a perfect addition to the AEW team. He can serve as Tony Khan’s right-hand man backstage and take some of the load off the boss. His experience will also prove beneficial to some of the younger talent.

Also read: AEW Allegedly Made Major Creative Mistake With Kevin Knight

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