AEW President Tony Khan is once again making moves to strengthen his roster, and the latest buzz suggests that former NJPW standout Clark Connors is next in line to become #AllElite. After a string of recent signings, Khan seems determined to keep the momentum going, with Connors expected to officially join AEW very soon.
Clark Connors Expected to Sign with AEW
Connors, a former IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, made his return to AEW programming this past weekend on Collision, where he faced Darby Allin in a high-energy bout. Following the match, Connors and Gabe Kidd launched a surprise attack on Allin—fueling speculation that a long-term storyline is in the works.
According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, sources within AEW have confirmed that Clark Connors is set to sign with the company imminently, with an official offer already on the table and near finalization.
Connors recently wrapped up his run in New Japan Pro Wrestling, competing in his last NJPW match at New Year Dash 2026 on January 6, where he, Gabe Kidd, and Hiromu Takahashi lost to United Empire in a trios contest.
David Finlay Also on AEW’s Radar
Connors isn’t the only NJPW talent catching AEW’s attention. David Finlay, son of WWE legend Fit Finlay, is also being closely monitored. His NJPW contract is nearing its end, and AEW sources have confirmed internal discussions about potentially bringing him on board.
While WWE has also shown some interest in Finlay, there have been no active negotiations with the company as of now, leaving the door open for AEW to move first.
Tony Khan’s Recent Hiring Spree
Since late December 2025, Tony Khan has signed 11 new wrestlers to AEW—an impressive burst of recruitment that includes well-known names and promising prospects. Here’s a look at the newest additions:
| Wrestler | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|
| Tommaso Ciampa | Current TNT Champion |
| Andrade | Former WWE & AEW standout |
| Jake Doyle | Rising indie talent |
| Hechicero | Lucha libre veteran |
| Máscara Dorada | High-flying sensation |
| Persephone | New women’s division addition |
| Maya World | Promising women’s star |
| Hyan | Women’s wrestling standout |
| Zayda Steele | Talented up-and-comer |
| Jordan Oliver | Known for work in GCW and MLW |
| Alec Price | Indie darling with major upside |
Departures and Rumours: Hobbs and Jericho
While new signings continue to roll in, AEW has also seen a few departures:
- Powerhouse Hobbs, a former TNT Champion, recently signed with WWE and debuted under the name Royce Keys at the Royal Rumble.
- Chris Jericho, one of AEW’s original cornerstones, is rumored to be considering his next move, though reports say he remains under contract with AEW—for now.
