Bayley may be able to do more than score a massive payday—she could force WWE to change the way it writes talent contracts.
Fightful Select says Bayley’s potential free agency has become a major topic inside both WWE and AEW, with one agent believing she should at least reach the negotiation window before agreeing to anything.
That is where things could get expensive. Bayley is expected to receive interest from both companies, and her leverage could allow her to demand contract protections that most WWE stars do not currently have.
Many WWE deals do not include fully guaranteed years or no-cut protection. That has become a much bigger issue after the company released wrestlers with millions of dollars still remaining on their contracts. The belief is that Bayley may be one of the few stars powerful enough to change that.
WWE is expected to want her back, but AEW can offer some benefits that WWE usually does not. AEW has a stronger history of honoring contracts through their full term, pays talent travel expenses and allows wrestlers to take outside bookings and convention appearances.
That matters for Bayley because she could be one of the biggest names on the signing and meet-and-greet circuit. A source from the convention world believes she would become one of the most in-demand wrestling personalities of the last two decades.
Bayley’s value also goes beyond merchandise and appearances. She is a former champion, a proven television star and someone who could immediately walk into either company’s women’s title picture. Meltzer previously questioned whether WWE would give Bayley enough featured time if she remained with the company.
That gives Bayley a serious decision to make. WWE can offer history, exposure and familiar opponents. AEW can offer freedom, contract security and a fresh role near the top of its women’s division.
Bayley has not signed anything yet, and that may be the smartest move she can make. The longer WWE and AEW stare each other down, the stronger her negotiating position becomes.
Could Bayley be the wrestler who finally lands a fully guaranteed, no-cut WWE contract? Leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments.
