WWE’s New Contracts Include One-Year Non-Compete Clause After Termination

A major shift in WWE’s legal strategy has come to light — and it could affect every wrestler under contract moving forward.

According to Wrestling Observer Radio’s Bryan Alvarez, WWE’s new TKO contracts now include a standard one-year non-compete clause if a talent is fired for cause or breach. That’s a massive leap from the traditional 90-day non-compete period most fans and talent are familiar with. Alvarez confirmed that this clause isn’t just a one-off situation. It’s now baked into all new WWE contracts under the TKO Group Holdings banner.

“We have it confirmed through multiple sources that the new TKO contracts have a clause where if you are fired, there is a one-year non-compete. The older contracts had this but it’s standard now. This is the hold-up involving Andrade. Very skeptical this would hold up in a legal battle, but it’s in the contracts.”

The revelation explains Andrade El Idolo’s current absence from AEW after a surprise appearance that sparked interest in his post-WWE career. Initially, reports pointed to a 90-day hold-up due to his WWE exit, with Fightful Select noting he had a strong legal team and might contest the clause. But now, it’s clear the delay is tied to this more aggressive one-year non-compete term.

Andrade’s case vcould now at the center of a much larger issue. It raises serious questions about how enforceable these clauses are — especially without pay, as previously reported in Andrade’s situation. The clause may be written into contracts, but whether it can stand up in court is another story entirely.

As for Andrade, he’s staying quiet for now — but don’t be surprised if his legal team makes a move soon. History shows WWE’s non-compete clauses don’t always stick; just ask Brock Lesnar, who fought back in 2004.

The game has changed, and WWE’s talent might find themselves locked down longer than ever if they don’t tread carefully.

Would you challenge a one-year non-compete clause if it meant sitting out unpaid? Think WWE’s new contract rules are fair, or is this going too far? Sound off in the comments.