Seven Wrestlers AEW Could Target in the Free-Agent Market

As 2026 nears its final months, All Elite Wrestling appears set to remain active in the free-agent market. AEW has already added Tommaso Ciampa, The Rascalz, The Motor City Machine Guns and The New Level over the past nine months, and Tony Khan shows no signs of easing his pursuit of prominent available wrestlers.

These seven names have emerged as potential targets for the company.

7. Kairi Sane

Kairi Sane was among the wrestlers released by WWE in a recent talent reduction, to the surprise of many fans.

Since departing WWE, Sane has yet to appear for another wrestling promotion.

Recent reports suggest that preliminary discussions have taken place between Sane and AEW, although no agreement has been reached.

Given her extensive experience and championship pedigree, Sane could make an immediate impact in AEW.

6. Dani Luna

Dani Luna requested her release from TNA Wrestling in March before deciding to leave the company.

Across WWE NXT UK, TNA and the independent circuit, Luna has established a reputation as a demanding and competitive performer.

Her hard-hitting approach and experience could make her a strong fit for All Elite Wrestling.

Luna would also bring the physical edge and intensity associated with AEW’s most prominent rivals.

5. Charlie, formerly Dakota Kai

Dakota Kai was included in WWE’s release wave in May 2025, a move that caught many fans off guard.

After eight years with the promotion, Kai built a reputation as one of its most dependable in-ring performers.

Since leaving WWE, she has competed as Charlie on the independent scene in a small number of appearances.

Charlie could prove to be a natural fit for AEW’s women’s division if given an opportunity in the coming months.

4. Joseph Sawyer, formerly Joe Gacy

Another former WWE wrestler to make a swift return to the independent circuit is Joe Gacy.

Now performing as Joseph Sawyer, the former WWE Tag Team Champion has reintroduced himself through matches on the indie scene.

Among his early returns, Sawyer captured the Game Changer Wrestling World Championship.

His existing connection with current AEW Continental Champion Jon Moxley could provide an opening for him to enter All Elite Wrestling sooner rather than later.

3. Kay Lee Ray

Alba Fyre was one of the more notable names released by WWE in her most recent talent reduction.

She quickly returned to the independent scene under the Kay Lee Ray name rather than remaining inactive.

Her comeback included appearances for Pro Wrestling: EVE.

Fyre’s recent success there has helped rebuild her momentum and could position her for an AEW opportunity.

2. Sheamus

In July, it was announced that Sheamus would leave WWE after declining the company’s proposed pay reduction.

The Celtic Warrior is widely regarded as one of WWE’s most physical and intense performers.

Following his departure, AEW has emerged as one of the most frequent potential destinations mentioned by fans.

A matchup with wrestlers such as Konosuke Takeshita, Brody King or Darby Allin would offer Sheamus the kind of high-impact contest that could define his AEW career for years.

1. Ilja Dragunov

Ilja Dragunov’s WWE run came to an end in early August when his contract expired.

During his seven years in the company, Dragunov became a former WWE United States Champion, NXT Champion and NXT UK Champion.

He has also established himself as one of the most intense competitors in professional wrestling.

As a free agent, Dragunov could become a formidable opponent for stars such as Will Ospreay, Kyle Fletcher and Kenny Omega, making AEW a logical destination.

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