4 WWE stars who can join AEW in 2026

The competition between rival wrestling promotions, WWE and AEW, was on full display in 2025. From head-to-head shows to superstars jumping ship to the other company, it had been an exciting year to witness for the wrestling fans.

Regarding the superstars, names like Andrade, Kayden Carter, and Nixon Newell left WWE to appear in All Elite Wrestling. Moreover, there are names on the current roster who might be frustrated with their position in the Stamford-based promotion. It could be due to not getting significant push, being a part of meaningful storylines, or other reasons. So here is a look at the top four WWE superstars who could join AEW in 2026.

#4. Michin

One of the true workhorses and underrated stars of the current WWE roster is Michin. She returned to the Sports Entertainment juggernaut in 2022, following her first run, which ended in 2020. Since then, Michin has wrestled on all prominent WWE shows, including RAW, SmackDown, NXT, and special events. Despite her hardwork and perseverance, the 36-year-old star has not received any significant push or title victories in her second coming. The years of frustrations could finally pile up on the talented Michin, who might leave WWE in 2026 and sign with All Elite Wrestling to seek better opportunities.

#3. Finn Balor

Finn Balor is one of the top veterans on the WWE main roster and a regular fixture on Monday Night RAW as part of the Judgment Day. However, the former NXT Champion admitted that it had not been a great year for him and his faction on the last RAW episode of 2025. While Balor has stated to make a change in 2026, it could be something that none of the fans would expect. This could see Balor depart WWE to join AEW, giving his career a new direction. Moreover, it could lead to spectacular dream matches with top stars like Kazuchika Okada and his former Bullet Club cohort, Kenny Omega.

#2. Bayley

Another veteran name in WWE, who was a pivotal part in changing the landscape for the women's division, is Bayley. Alongside Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, and Sasha Banks (now known as Mercedes Mone), she became a cornerstone of the Women's Revolution in WWE, which led to significant changes, including women getting marquee matches and headlining major shows. While the other three wrestling superstars have garnered widespread recognition, the same canarguably not be said of The Role Model, despite her highly accomplished career. This could see Bayley follow in her best friend, Mercedes Mone's footsteps and join AEW in 2026 to take her fame and career to unprecedented heights.

#1. LA Knight

LA Knight has everything to be a marquee WWE attraction, from a captivating personality, a huge fanbase, and impressive in-ring acumen. Despite that, the management has not given him a monster push or a World Championship run to cement him as a top star of the current roster. There's a chance Tony Khan capitalizes on the situation and offers LA Knight a chance to join AEW in 2026 with the opportunities he deserves, which could change the complexion of his entire career.

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Edited by N.S Walia