New Details Emerge on How David Finlay’s AEW Debut Came Together

David Finlay’s arrival in AEW just got a major update — and it turns out the deal that brought him to the company came together very recently.

Finlay made his surprise appearance during the March 4, 2026 episode of AEW Dynamite following a tag team match between Darby Allin and Orange Cassidy against Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors. After Allin and Cassidy secured the win, Finlay stormed the ring and attacked both men, instantly shifting the mood inside the arena. The moment ended with Finlay standing tall alongside Kidd and Connors, signaling the formation of a new group.

At the time, the appearance raised questions about how quickly Finlay had landed in AEW after his New Japan Pro-Wrestling contract expired. Earlier reports had indicated there had been communication between Finlay and WWE, but that he was not part of the company’s creative plans.

“Sources in WWE have said while there has been contact between David Finlay and WWE, he isn't factored in to creative plans at the moment.”

Now, new details have emerged about how the AEW move came together. According to Fightful Select, the deal that brought Finlay into AEW was finalized very recently as the fourth-generation star looked to transition away from NJPW and continue his career in the United States.

“We're told that the David Finlay deal came together in the last week. Finlay was looking to move on from New Japan Pro Wrestling and wanted to work in the United States.”

The report also confirmed the identity of the new group Finlay formed with Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors.

“They will collectively be known as THE DOGS.”

Finlay’s sudden appearance and immediate alignment with Kidd and Connors suggests AEW has quickly positioned the trio as a new faction moving forward. With the group now officially named The Dogs, the company appears to be introducing them as a unit rather than simply a one-night alliance.

Do you think The Dogs could become a major faction in AEW with David Finlay, Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors working together? Let us know your thoughts and leave your feedback in the comments.