2026 has already brought heavy talent movement between WWE and AEW, and a new roundup names eight stars who could land with the rival promotion before the year ends. Powerhouse Hobbs went from AEW World Trios champion to the WWE Royal Rumble field, Danhausen joined WWE after leaving AEW, Tommaso Ciampa signed with AEW and debuted on Dynamite, and Mick Foley also made the AEW jump. Chris Jericho and AJ Styles reportedly explored switching companies but stayed in AEW and WWE.

Big Bill ranks among the most discussed names on the list. His AEW deal is said to be expiring soon, and he has been taken off AEW and Ring of Honor TV while reuniting with Enzo Amore in WWE remains a rumored possibility. Johnny Gargano is also flagged after DIY split when Ciampa left WWE, limited SmackDown direction since WrestleMania 42, and sparse weekly use outside an NXT Stand and Deliver appearance in early April. Britt Baker appears on the list as well after a long stretch away from AEW TV following her 2024 return and unsuccessful TBS title challenge to Mercedes Mone at All In.