We may be just weeks into 2026, but Tony Khan is wasting no time making power moves in the world of professional wrestling. The AEW President has already made a wave of new signings, doubled down on major returns, and made it clear that All Elite Wrestling is still actively building its future — not just maintaining its present.
AEW’s 2026 Signings: Fresh Faces, Familiar Names
AEW’s roster was already considered one of the deepest in pro wrestling, but in true Tony Khan fashion, the talent pool keeps growing. So far in 2026, AEW has added:
- The Rascalz — known for their high-flying tag team style
- Jake Doyle — a rising star with impressive indie credentials
- Tommaso Ciampa — the former WWE standout has already captured gold in AEW
This is on top of finally getting full-time access to Andrade El Idolo, who was caught in contract issues through the end of 2025 but is now free and back in action.
While AEW lost Powerhouse Hobbs (now going by Royce Keys in WWE), Tony Khan’s aggressive approach to free agency ensures the roster doesn’t miss a beat.
Khan: AEW Is “Where the Best Wrestle”
In a recent interview with Baby Huey of 107.7 The Bone, Khan addressed his recent string of acquisitions and whether he’s been intentionally aggressive in building the roster.
“I am constantly evaluating the market and scouting for fantastic wrestlers if they’re available to join AEW. AEW is where the best wrestle, and it will be for a long time.”
That mindset doesn’t just apply to men’s wrestling. Fightful Select reports that additions to the women’s division are also on the way — another sign that AEW is focused on building a complete and competitive product in 2026.
Andrade El Idolo’s Redemption Arc Begins Now
Arguably AEW’s biggest early-year success story has been the resurgence of Andrade El Idolo. After being benched due to a WWE non-compete clause, Andrade is now free to compete — and he’s making every match count.
Since returning in early January, Andrade has:
- Won four straight matches
- Defeated Kenny Omega on Dynamite
- Earned a match against “Hangman” Adam Page at Grand Slam, with the winner becoming the No. 1 contender for the AEW World Championship
Tony Khan had nothing but praise for Andrade during the interview:
“As soon as I heard he would be available, I’ve always wanted him to be here. Andrade and I have a great relationship. He left on fantastic terms, and it’s great to have him back.”
Khan also credited Andrade’s solid performance in the Continental Classic, but said that what we’re seeing now in 2026 is “the best Andrade yet.”
AEW’s Future Looks Bright — and Busy
While WWE is also making headlines with its own roster moves, AEW is clearly building momentum. With stars like Andrade rising, surprise debuts like Tommaso Ciampa grabbing gold early, and the promise of more names coming soon, Tony Khan is keeping his foot on the gas.
And for fans, that means 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years AEW has had yet.
