AEW In Talks To Sign NJPW's Lance Archer?

"High-level talks" have reportedly taken place.

Lance archer
NJPW

All Elite Wrestling could be on the verge of landing the big beefy bruiser its active roster currently lacks, with Sports Illustrated's Justin Barrasso reporting that the promotion is in "high-level talks" to sign Lance Archer of NJPW.

2019 saw Archer emerge as one of New Japan's surprise packages as he played a starring role in the G1 Climax tournament, then enjoyed a short IWGP North American Championship reign before dropping the strap to Jon Moxley at Wrestle Kingdom 14. He's a relatively prominent, pushed commodity, but not under contract with the promotion - hence why he'd be able to negotiate with AEW.

Archer is one of (and probably the) best working big man in wrestling today. A 6'8" giant with an imposing aura, awesome power game, and the agility and balance to execute flawless rope-walks and dives like a man half his size, he has become one of the most eye-catching wrestlers in the world. He'd be an immediate boon to AEW, or any other promotion for that matter.

Advertisement

With Brian Cage rumoured to be on the way, Wardlow finally stepping into the ring, and now Archer, AEW's roster could be about to get a lot beefier.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.