Leon Slater may have long been viewed as WWE-bound behind the scenes — but a major new update suggests All Elite Wrestling is now actively entering the conversation.
While speaking during a Self Made Session, Self Made Pro revealed that many people previously viewed Slater eventually joining WWE as practically inevitable. However, AEW talent and figures within the company are now pushing for AEW to aggressively pursue the rising UK star instead.
“Months ago, it was considered a formality that he’s going to WWE. And I’m not here to tell you that that’s not happening anymore. But what I am telling you is that there are many people in AEW pushing for them to look into exploring their options to basically sign him.”
This actually becomes even more interesting because Self Made Pro made it clear Slater is not locked into anything officially with WWE at this point, either.
“He’s not under any WWE contract. So he doesn’t have to be beholden to just like, let’s just say hypothetically that he already gave them some verbal word… even if he did say that, he can go back on it if he wanted to.”
According to the report, there is now growing belief that both major companies could seriously compete for Slater once his current situation opens up, comparing it to an arms race.
“I do know that people in AEW are pushing for them to inquire about him. So I do think we’re headed towards a bit of an arms race here once he’s available.”
This completely changes the context surrounding Slater’s future because, up until recently, WWE interest had largely been viewed as the expected outcome internally across the European wrestling scene.
Back in March 2026, Fightful Select’s Corey Brennan reported that many promoters and wrestlers in Europe believed Slater had intentionally reduced his independent bookings during what is reportedly a contract year. At the time, multiple sources also believed WWE would have major interest in signing him once his TNA deal expired later this year.
Slater has not wrestled outside of TNA or WWE-affiliated appearances since November 2025, fueling speculation that he may have already been protecting himself ahead of a potential major move.
The 20-year-old standout has become one of the most talked-about young wrestlers in the world over the past two years thanks to his explosive athleticism and rapid rise across the UK scene. His work in TNA Wrestling only accelerated that momentum and he most recently dropped the X-Division title as well.
Bottom line: Leon Slater may still be strongly linked to WWE internally, but AEW has influential people now pushing hard for the company to pursue him as well — potentially setting up a major bidding battle once he becomes available.
Do you think Leon Slater fits better in WWE or AEW at this stage of his career? Leave your thoughts and feedback below.
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