The Big Show became the latest star to join AEW but why did he leave WWE?
AEW made another big signing by grabbing hold of The Big Show, a former WWE Champion and someone who is a bit of a legend in the wrestling business.
Show, called Paul Wight by AEW possibly due to trademark issues, had featured on Raw recently during Legends Night.
However, this signing by AEW caught a few off guard. Show seemed set to remain in WWE but now has jumped ship.
AEW confirmed via a press release that Wight would feature in the ring and also have the role of a commentator on a new show.
AEW Dark: Elevation becomes the third show of the week for AEW after Dynamite and Dark. Wight also had some great words for the rising promotion in the press release:
“It’s been amazing to watch what AEW has built in just a couple of years.
“AEW Dark is an incredible platform to hone the skills of up-and-coming wrestlers, but I also love that established AEW talent can build out their personalities and showcase themselves in new ways on Dark. It’s no exaggeration when they say that AEW is boundless.”
Tony Khan also posted a tribute to Wight and the former WWE star was congratulated by many for joining the company.
The Big Show is one of the most recognizable stars in wrestling history. He won titles in WCW and WWE but this is a big move for Show.
It will be interesting to see how things work out for him. Many former WWE stars have joined AEW since the company was brought up by Tony Khan.
However, there is more to the story it seems as all was not well between Show and WWE.
Why did The Big Show leave WWE?
Wight had appeared on Raw Legends Night on 4 January. However, PWInsider (h/t Wrestling Inc) brought up his WWE contract and how he was not happy with it.
The report claims that The Big Show’s WWE contract ran out and the pair were unable to come to terms over a new one.
That left Wight a little upset with the situation with his contract. Big Show had been with WWE for a long time but it seems that his release was only confirmed last week as he was placed in the WWE Alumni section.
Wight has now signed a long-term deal with AEW and these are interesting times for the brand. AEW has grown from having PPVs to having a regular TV show and now is set to have three shows per week.
More AEW news
- (Photos) Jake Hager dealt several facial injuries in tough battle at Bellator 250
- MJF riles up the wrestling community after posted X-rated tweet to Katie Nolan
- Brodie Lee highlights what gimmicks he pitched to Vince McMahon before leaving WWE
Follow our dedicated AEW page for instant AEWnews and updates
