Edge Turned Down AEW Before WWE Return

Could things have turned out differently for the most talked about man in wrestling?

Edge AEW
WWE/AEW

Edge is the most talked-about man in professional wrestling at the moment, having starred in one of the most stunning Royal Rumble comebacks in history less than 48 hours ago, before following-up with a memorable gut-punch of an angle that saw his head and neck obliterated by former Rated RKO partner Randy Orton.

Amidst the buzz, a new story emerges. Pro Wrestling Sheet and Wrestlezone have both reported that Edge actually held talks with AEW before signing his new WWE contract, backing up an October 2019 story from Dave Meltzer.

It's thought that AEW made a big-time play for 'The Rated-R Superstar' that would've been him work as a producer and agent as well as stepping between the ropes for the odd match. Edge then seemingly took this, brought it to WWE as part of negotiations, and scored a better offer from his old employers.

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A smart business play on Edge's behalf, though it's no surprise that he'd go for WWE, given his history and familiarity with the company plus their bigger platform and resources. WWE will likely use him as a special attraction going forward, with a WrestleMania 36 clash against Orton seemingly his first singles match back.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.