Pro wrestling has always been a business of surprises—shocking returns, dramatic betrayals, and yes, big-time departures. Over the past few years, one of the most jaw-dropping trends has been the wave of WWE superstars leaving the global giant to join its rising rival, All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
So, who jumped ship? And more importantly, why did they do it? Let’s dive deep into the list of superstars who swapped the Stamford-based empire for the new playground in Jacksonville.
Why Are WWE Superstars Jumping to AEW?
Let’s be real. WWE is still the biggest name in sports entertainment—but AEW has changed the game.
Creative Freedom Matters
One of the biggest complaints from wrestlers in WWE has always been the lack of creative control. Many talents felt shackled by strict scripts, micromanagement, and inconsistent storytelling.
AEW, on the other hand, offers freedom. Wrestlers can pitch their own ideas, have longer matches, and speak more authentically. For a performer who wants their voice heard, that’s a massive draw.
Better Schedules, Less Burnout
AEW’s lighter travel schedule has also been a game-changer. In WWE, superstars are on the road nearly 300 days a year. In AEW, they get time to rest, recover, and actually have a life. That’s huge for mental and physical health.
Also, let’s not ignore the obvious—money talks. AEW’s owner, Tony Khan, isn’t shy about offering big contracts to proven stars.
Top WWE Superstars Who Made the Jump to AEW
Let’s break down the major names who traded the WWE logo for AEW’s colors—and made headlines doing it.
| Superstar Name | WWE Highlights | AEW Debut Year | AEW Role/Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Jericho | Multiple-time world champ, Y2J legacy | 2019 | First AEW Champion, core roster leader |
| Jon Moxley | Formerly Dean Ambrose, Shield member | 2019 | AEW World Champion, fan favorite |
| Bryan Danielson | Known as Daniel Bryan, eco-warrior champ | 2021 | Workhorse, wrestling clinic provider |
| Adam Cole | NXT headliner, Undisputed Era leader | 2021 | Top star, fan magnet |
| Malakai Black | Formerly Aleister Black | 2021 | Dark, intense faction leader |
| Ruby Soho | Formerly Ruby Riott | 2021 | Women’s division force |
| Claudio Castagnoli | Formerly Cesaro | 2022 | Technical beast, ROH Champion |
| Toni Storm | NXT UK Champion | 2022 | AEW Women’s Champion, character revamp |
| Edge (Adam Copeland) | WWE legend, Hall of Famer | 2023 | Shocking debut, huge locker room leader |
| Mercedes Moné | Formerly Sasha Banks | 2024 | Women’s division revolution |
Breaking Down the Most Talked-About AEW Moves
Chris Jericho – The Pioneer of AEW Defections
Chris Jericho wasn’t just the first major WWE name to jump—he was the blueprint. When he showed up in AEW and won the inaugural World Championship, it was a statement: AEW wasn’t playing around.
Jericho helped put AEW on the map and legitimize it in the eyes of casual fans. Plus, his “Le Champion” persona was pure gold.
Jon Moxley – Unleashing the Beast
When Jon Moxley left WWE and cut that first promo in AEW, it felt like a man set free. No more watered-down “Dean Ambrose” gimmick. AEW let him bleed, brawl, and be raw. He’s since become one of AEW’s most reliable main-eventers.
Bryan Danielson – A Wrestler’s Wrestler Returns
Daniel Bryan’s WWE run was filled with underdog stories and YES! chants. But in AEW as Bryan Danielson, he’s focused on one thing: pure wrestling. His matches are hard-hitting, technical clinics, and he’s faced a who’s who of talent. Fans love seeing this unleashed version of him.
Adam Cole – Bay Bay, Back in the Spotlight
When Adam Cole’s contract quietly expired, no one expected him to walk straight into AEW alongside his real-life partner Britt Baker. But he did—and the place exploded. Cole’s charisma, mic skills, and in-ring talent make him a cornerstone of AEW’s future.
Mercedes Moné – Changing the Game for Women’s Wrestling
The artist formerly known as Sasha Banks shocked the world when she walked out of WWE in 2022. Her AEW debut in 2024 was hyped, loud, and powerful. With her global stardom and unmatched style, she’s set to be a game-changer in AEW’s women’s division.
How These Moves Have Shaken Up the Wrestling World
AEW isn’t just building a roster—it’s rewriting the rules.
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Competition means better product. WWE stepped up its game once AEW proved they weren’t going away.
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Fans win big. Dream matches that were once impossible now feel very real—Danielson vs. Omega, Moxley vs. Page, Moné vs. Storm.
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Talent gets choice. Wrestlers finally have options, leverage, and real opportunities outside the WWE machine.
And let’s be honest, seeing stars you grew up watching in WWE shine in a whole new light? That’s exciting as hell.
Conclusion
So, which superstars left WWE and joined AEW?
Plenty. And more might be on the way.
But the bigger takeaway is this: Wrestling is alive, thriving, and evolving. AEW didn’t just open the door for WWE talent—it kicked it wide open and welcomed them in with creative freedom, fresh opportunities, and a fanbase hungry for something new.
Whether you’re Team WWE, Team AEW, or just a fan of great wrestling, these crossovers have made the entire industry more fun, more unpredictable, and more dynamic than ever.
One thing’s for sure—this is the most exciting time to be a wrestling fan in years.