2 stars who could leave AEW and 2 who may debut in 2026

AEW had a great run in 2025. The Jacksonville-based promotion witnessed the rise of various names in the company and the exit of several stars as well. There are plenty of stars who are rumored to be in line to leave AEW in 2026. It can be a huge hit for Tony Khan's promotion to see its top stars leaving one by one.

But as every coin has two sides, this situation of All Elite Wrestling has a good side as well. Many top names in the independent circuit of wrestling are expected to join All Elite Wrestling by next year. Some of these names have a history with WWE, which can be beneficial for Khan's company. From a former NXT Champion to a beloved female star, many names could debut in AEW in 2026.

In this article, let's take a look at 2 stars who could leave AEW and 2 who may debut in 2026. First, let's see stars who could be on their way out from the Jacksonville-based promotion:

#2. Chris Jericho

Chris Jericho made his last appearance in All Elite Wrestling in April this year at Dynasty. Since then, Y2J has been absent from the company, sparking rumors of a potential exit. Besides, as per several reports, Jericho's contract with the Tony Khan-led company is likely to expire this month. Therefore, there are speculations that The Learning Tree could make his return to WWE down the line.

Jericho had an impactful run in All Elite Wrestling since its inception. Therefore, his departure could be a major hit for Tony Khan. As per many names in wrestling, the former AEW World Champion could make his return to WWE before WrestleMania 42 next year. Therefore, it is pretty likely that The Demo Good might never appear in the Jacksonville-based promotion again.

#1. Anna Jay

Anna Jay has been a popular name in the All Elite women's locker room over the past year. She has improved drastically in the ring, becoming a reliable name for any promotion. As per Fightful, Jay's AEW contract is expected to expire in Spring 2026. The report further suggested that Anna is open to exploring her options before she makes her decision.

AEW was confident that they would end up re-signing Anna Jay. However, as per various speculations over the past few weeks, Jay is expected to be leaving All Elite Wrestling. Well, some rumors suggest that the 27-year-old star could be on her way to join WWE later next year. Considering Jay's potential, she could be a major asset to the Stamford-based promotion.

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Let's discuss stars who could debut in All Elite Wrestling next year:

#2. Karrion Kross

Karrion Kross was released by WWE in 2025. His exit sparked a massive outrage among the fans as it was believed that Kross was not booked properly by Triple H. Since then, The Doom Walker has been competing in the independent scene in promotions like HOG Wrestling and MLW. But previously, Kross has expressed interest in competing for the Jacksonville-based promotion.

The former WWE star has made it clear that if Tony Khan signs him, he will remain in AEW for the rest of his career. It is an impactful statement that might lead him to All Elite Wrestling in 2026. Kross' arrival in WWE's direct company has the potential to set the stage on fire. Well, if booked properly, the former NXT Champion could be a top star in AEW's main event scene.

#1. Dakota Kai could debut in AEW

Dakota Kai was also released by WWE in 2025. She was a beloved star, and many wanted to see her succeed in the Stamford-based promotion. Therefore, her exit was a massive hit on her fans, and people are clamoring to see her back. Recently, the former WWE star also said that she is missing wrestling, hinting that she might have some major plans in her wrestling career down the line.

All Elite Wrestling might approach the New Zealand native to make a debut for them in 2026. Given her immense popularity, she can be a game-changing addition to the All Elite women's division. Besides, Dakota will face Kris Statlander at Wrestle Queendom 8 in March. People are considering that this match could lead to Kai's AEW debut.

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Edited by Anugrah Tyagi