Tony Khan Breaks Silence On Andrade’s AEW Status

Is Andrade All Elite?

On October 1, Andrade made his second debut with AEW just weeks after reportedly being fired by WWE. By heading back to AEW, the star became the first wrestler to move from WWE to AEW, back to WWE, and then back to AEW.

On Dynamite, Andrade confronted Kenny Omega and aligned with the Don Callis Family, seemingly setting up his first match. However, he hasn’t been seen on television or even mentioned since.

This was followed by a report that claimed Andrade was subject to a non-compete clause, meaning he couldn’t appear for another company until 90 days after his WWE exit. At the time of his departure, it was believed that, as the star had been fired due to wellness policy violations, a non-compete clause didn’t apply.

To further complicate matters, it was then reported that new WWE/TKO contracts come with a one-year non-compete clause if the talent involved is fired. If enforced, this clause could keep Andrade out of the ring until September 2026.

Tony Khan Addresses Andrade Situation

During the pre-WrestleDream media call, Jon Alba for The Takedown on SI asked Tony Khan about Andrade’s current status and the confusion around him. The AEW boss declined to get into specifics, but again stated that the star is a “great wrestler.”

“Well, I would echo sentiments I had said at AEW Worlds End 2023, when Andrade initially left a few years ago. And I would say that I have a ton of respect for Andre El Idolo. I think he’s an amazing wrestler, and I think that when he left in 2023, it was on a very high note.

Just to reiterate everything I said at his departure a few years ago. And I still feel that way, and I think Andrade is a great wrestler. And I’m excited to see what’s next for him. And I would leave it at that.”

In a follow-up question, Khan was asked directly whether Andrade is under contract with AEW and if he was aware of any non-compete clause involving WWE.

He went on to reiterate his excitement at working with the star.

“Yeah, I would just echo the sentiments again when Andre had initially left in 2023. I have a ton of respect for him, and I’m saying as much as I can say about it, but I appreciate you asking. And I am excited to see what’s next for Andre.

And, again, this is somebody that I think is just an incredible wrestler. I really enjoyed working with him in the past, and I’m excited to see what’s next for him.”