Ex-WWE Star Baron Corbin Calls Out Talent Seeking Early Releases Amid Rey Fenix Controversy

Rey Fenix’s cryptic social media post on January 18, showing himself restrained in what appeared to be a cell, has only intensified speculation about his frustrations with AEW. Many fans interpreted the image as a shot at the company, hinting at his feelings of being stuck under his current deal.

The situation escalated when Twitter/X account @ProWFinesse publicly called for AEW President Tony Khan to release Fenix, arguing that keeping him under contract without using him only hurts the talent. That take didn’t sit well with former WWE star Baron Corbin, who quickly jumped in to defend the business side of things.

“If you sign a contract you honor it,” Corbin wrote. “Would it have been okay if Tony didn’t pay him while he was hurt or out of action? The answer is no bc Tony signed the contract as well. You can’t switch teams after getting what you want and signing the contract.”

One fan pushed back, arguing that Fenix had honored his contract and that AEW wasn’t holding up their end of the deal by keeping him off TV. Corbin didn’t back down, firing back with:

“False. Having a contract doesn’t mean you are guaranteed TV time or matches it simply means you can’t work for another company.”

Fenix’s status with AEW remains uncertain, with recent reports suggesting he might be trying to push for a release. Meanwhile, AEW’s removal of his merchandise from their official shop has only added to the speculation. Fans are left wondering if this standoff will lead to Fenix reuniting with his brother Penta in WWE or if AEW will find a way to smooth things over.

What do you think—should AEW let Rey Fenix go, or is Baron Corbin right about contracts being a two-way street? Drop your thoughts in the comments!