5 former AEW stars who are now champions in WWE

WWE had been the epitome of professional wrestling for a long time until Tony Khan's AEW came into the mix in 2019. This started the company as a direct competitor to the Stamford-based global juggernaut. Over the years, both promotions have signed their respective talents and used them in their own creative manner.

In recent memory, an interesting scenario has seen former AEW stars hold the majority of the gold in WWE across its three major brands: RAW, SmackDown, and NXT. So here is a look at former names from All Elite Wrestling who are current champions in World Wrestling Entertainment.

#5. Ethan Page

Ethan Page has been one of the top rising talents in WWE ever since he jumped ship from All Elite Wrestling. He debuted in WWE NXT in 2024 and immediately ascended to capture the NXT championship within a few months. The 'All Ego' star continued to climb the ladder by winning the NXT North American title from Ricky Saints in May 2025 and even introduced his Canadian version of the title belt. He recently defended his championship successfully at the Halloween Havoc event against El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.to extend his title reign further.

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#4. Dragon Lee

Dragon Lee had a brief tenure in AEW in 2022 before making his debut in WWE. He has worked alongside one of the greatest luchadors, like Rey Mysterio, as part of the LWO. Even now, Lee is aligned with a legend like AJ Styles. On the October 20 edition of Monday Night RAW, he and Styles dethroned Judgment Day members to become the current WWE World Tag Team Champions on the red brand.

#3. Blake Monroe

Blake Monroe had one of the most remarkable tenures in AEW under her real-life name, Mariah May. From winning the AEW Women's World title and Owen Hart Foundation Cup tournament to her impeccable rivalry with Toni Storm, she was a top fixture for All Elite Wrestling. However, she left the promotion and debuted in WWE NXT in June 2025, putting the entire division on notice. Only months after her first appearance, Monroe's captivating personality and cocky tactics led her to defeat Zaria at Halloween Havoc 2025 to capture the NXT Women's North American title in spectacular fashion.

#2. Ricky Saints

Ricky Saints, formely known as Ricky Starks, was one of the most charismatic and energetic stars in AEW. However, Tony Khan and his promotion failed to realise his true potential, which led to his exit and eventual signing with WWE NXT in February 2025. He began his ascension to the top of the mountain, first winning the North American title and later dethroning Oba Femi at No Mercy to win the NXT championship, which he currently holds in the developmental territory.

#1. Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes was one of the driving forces for the inception of AEW. Despite being their top wrestler and EVP, Rhodes left the company and returned to WWE in 2022 at WrestleMania 38. He has since ascended to become the face of the company and is the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion. He won the title back from John Cena at WWE SummerSlam 2025 to begin his second reign and lead the charge as the top champion on SmackDown.

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Edited by N.S Walia