Former AEW Star Set for WWE Tryout But Not as a Wrestler

Leyla Hirsch might be WWE-bound, but not in the way fans expected.

According to a new report from Fightful Select, WWE reached out to the former AEW star to express interest in a tryout — as a referee. Hirsch, who departed AEW earlier this year, has been staying active on the independent scene, but her next big opportunity might see her wearing stripes instead of throwing suplexes.

Sources within WWE said that the company contacted Hirsch in mid-June about the unique opportunity. At the time, it wasn’t clear whether Hirsch accepted, or if the tryout had already taken place. However, in an update, it’s now being said that “she contacted WWE to communicate interest in a referee position” — and WWE gave the green light.

While this might seem like a career pivot, history shows it’s not necessarily the end of Hirsch’s in-ring days. Jessika Carr initially joined WWE as a referee but wrestled again under the name Kalyx for EVOLVE earlier this year. Hirsch may be following a similar path to stay in the business in a new capacity — with the door still open for a wrestling return.

WWE hasn’t confirmed anything publicly, but this move would mark the latest example of the company bringing in former in-ring talent for other roles behind the scenes.

Would you want to see Leyla Hirsch join WWE in a referee role — or would you rather see her wrestle again? Let us know in the comments below.