2 ex-WWE stars Tony Khan should sign to AEW and 2 he should avoid

AEW, the upstart wrestling promotion, has been making waves in the industry by signing former WWE talent and showcasing them in a new light. With a packed roster in both the men’s and women’s divisions, there is ongoing debate about whether the company’s locker room is too bloated. Meanwhile, WWE has been letting go of several talents since the start of 2025, presenting opportunities for AEW to potentially sign some of these free agents.
One former WWE star that AEW should consider bringing in is Cedric Alexander. Known for his impressive run in ROH before joining WWE in 2016, Alexander was a key player in the company’s Cruiserweight Division and later joined The Hurt Business stable. However, his career failed to take off in WWE, and he was recently released. With the possibility of reuniting with his former teammates now in AEW, Alexander’s in-ring prowess and athleticism make him a perfect fit for the promotion.
Another talent that AEW should look into signing is Dakota Kai. The New Zealander had a successful run in WWE’s NXT before being released and then brought back, only to be released again. With AEW’s women’s division already strong, Kai’s seventeen years of experience in the sport would make her a valuable addition to the company’s roster.
On the other hand, there are two former WWE stars that AEW should avoid signing at the moment. Braun Strowman, known for his dominant run in WWE and subsequent releases, may not be the best fit for AEW due to his rumored potential return to WWE and his past criticisms of the company. Similarly, Matt Riddle, despite his impressive transition from MMA to pro wrestling, may not find a place in AEW’s already crowded men’s division.
In conclusion, AEW has the opportunity to capitalize on the release of former WWE talent by signing the right individuals who can add value to their roster. With careful consideration and strategic planning, the promotion can continue to grow and thrive in the competitive world of professional wrestling.