Ric Flair Blames AEW Contract for Keeping Him from Attending WrestleMania 41

John Cena is chasing history at WrestleMania 41 with a chance to become a 17-time World Champion. And while fans assumed Ric Flair might be ringside if Cena pulls it off, The Nature Boy just made it clear—it’s not happening.

Appearing on Busted Open Radio, Ric Flair addressed whether he’ll be part of WrestleMania 41 should Cena defeat Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship. The answer? No—and not because he doesn’t want to be there.

“I wish I could say that I was, but I’m not, and I understand why, and I’m not mad about it by any means,” Flair admitted. “Every time they talk about the title, my name gets mentioned. They keep me relevant. It’s very cool. John is a great guy. Cody is a great guy.”

So why wouldn’t WWE bring him in for what could be a historic passing-of-the-torch moment? Flair pointed to his current ties with AEW.

“I work for another company,” he explained. “I’m sure I would be more than welcome. Absolutely, if I wasn’t working with Tony, I would absolutely be there. They couldn’t keep me out of the building.”

Flair hasn’t been on AEW television since Revolution 2024, when he appeared as part of Sting’s retirement match, but he remains under contract with Tony Khan’s company. That loyalty—and legal reality—keeps him from stepping back into WWE’s spotlight, even on what could be a legacy-defining night for John Cena.

Still, his presence looms large. Whether Cena ties or breaks Flair’s legendary record, Ric’s name will be on everyone’s lips—just the way he likes it.