AEW’s WrestleMania Weekend Indie Booking Policy Not a Full Ban

The wrestling world has been in a frenzy over reports that AEW has banned its younger stars from working independent shows during WrestleMania 41 weekend in Las Vegas. But according to new details, that claim might not be as straightforward as it seems.

Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net has shot down the initial report, citing multiple AEW sources who say there is no company-wide policy prohibiting talent from taking indie bookings over WrestleMania weekend. “I can confirm that report is not accurate,” Haynes stated.

However, Haynes also noted that several indie promotions have reported AEW pulling some of their talent from planned matches while allowing others to go forward. The reasons behind these decisions? Sources within AEW suggest it varies, pointing to factors like scheduling conflicts, booking plans, the wrestler’s current standing in AEW, the indie promotion itself, or even the opponents involved.

One AEW source emphasized that similar adjustments have been made in the past for other events, referencing talents being pulled from late-January indie shows to ensure availability for Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Rager at Sea. This suggests that AEW’s approach to independent bookings is more fluid and situational than a blanket ban.

For now, it looks like AEW isn’t keeping its younger stars completely off the Vegas indie scene, but they’re being selective about when and where talent is allowed to appear. Whether this strategy benefits the company or creates more frustration for indie promotions remains to be seen.

Will AEW’s approach to indie bookings hurt its relationships with smaller promotions? Or is this just smart business to protect their brand? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know where you stand on AEW’s WrestleMania weekend plans!