Update on 6-Time WWE Champion’s Status Amid Return Rumors
6-Time WWE Champion Alberto Del Rio had a controversial run in WWE.
Del Rio was first released by the Stamford-based promotion in August 2014 due to unprofessional conduct after an altercation with an employee. He returned briefly in 2015 but was eventually released again in 2016 following multiple backstage controversies and wellness policy violations.
After his departure, Del Rio signed with the Mexican promotion Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA), where he wrestled under the name Alberto El Patrón beginning in 2024. His move to AAA was seen as a fresh start for the former WWE World Champion.
In April 2025, WWE officially acquired Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. Many fans hoped that this acquisition would lead to Alberto Del Rio rejoining the Stamford-based promotion, similar to other AAA talents who crossed over. However, the Triple H-led promotion did not directly sign Del Rio; instead, they inherited his existing AAA contract through the acquisition.
WWE Remains Uninterested In Re-Hiring Alberto Del Rio
Despite the contract transfer, WWE has made it clear that they have no plans to bring Del Rio back to its programming. This principle has been supported by senior officials, citing his controversial backstage history and legal troubles as reasons for their reluctance.
Alberto Del Rio’s final involvement with AAA ended after he lost a “Loser Leaves Town” match, a stipulation that forced him to leave the Mexican promotion. The loss, which occurred just before WWE’s takeover of AAA, effectively ended his contract and presence in AAA events.
This match led to fans once again speculating about a potential WWE return, given that the Stamford-based promotion now owned AAA. However, reports confirmed Triple H and co. remained adamant about not reintegrating him into their roster, maintaining a distance from the former star despite inheriting his contract with AAA.
A new report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter revealed that the Stamford-based promotion continues to reject the idea of bringing him back due to his past controversies and ongoing legal issues, choosing not to involve him in their current plans.