Andrade Addresses WWE Cease-And-Desist That Temporarily Pulled Him From AEW TV

Andrade El Idolo’s return to AEW earlier this year came with some unexpected complications, but the former NXT Champion is now opening up about the situation that briefly forced him off television.

After his WWE exit and return to AEW in January 2026, Andrade was suddenly removed from programming following a legal notice from WWE. The situation sparked speculation among fans about whether the move was tied to lingering contract issues or the competitive relationship between the two companies.

Andrade addressed the controversy during an interview with SHAK Wrestling. When asked directly about the cease-and-desist situation and whether it was simply business or something more strategic, Andrade chose his words carefully and avoided taking direct shots at WWE. He explained that the situation reflects the competitive nature of the wrestling industry, comparing the rivalry between companies to the way wrestlers compete with each other inside the ring.

“So it's difficult, you know. It's difficult to ask this question because you know always it's compete, like wrestlers compete. So imagine companies. So I compete with Kenny, so I want to show everyone I'm better than Kenny. I want to show I'm better than MJF. I want to show like this is the companies too, the companies compete.”

Although the legal situation briefly disrupted his momentum after returning to AEW, Andrade made it clear that he is now focused on moving forward and proving himself again in the company.

“So I don't know if it's a good way or bad way, but this happened. Now I am happy here in AEW. Back to AEW, show everyone who Andrade is. I show to the ladies, show to everyone who I am. So I'm happy now in this moment.”

Andrade’s comments come after a turbulent period that saw him exit WWE in 2025 and eventually make his way back to AEW television earlier this year. While the legal notice temporarily complicated his return, it appears that the situation has since been resolved, allowing Andrade to continue his run with the company.

Now back on AEW programming, Andrade is once again looking to position himself among the promotion’s top stars as he continues rebuilding momentum following his WWE departure.

What do you think about Andrade’s comments on the cease-and-desist situation between WWE and AEW? Do you think issues like this are simply part of the competition between companies, or should situations like this be handled differently? Let us know your thoughts and join the conversation.

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