Why This AEW Star Didn't Sign For WWE In 2019

When WWE dragged their heels, AEW came knocking...

by Andy H Murray
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Kris Statlander was Tony Schiavone and Aubrey Edwards' guest on today's edition of the AEW Unrestricted podcast, speaking on all kinds of topics including her stunt career, the origins of her 'Alien' gimmick, and more.

The most enlightening segment came when Schiavone asked Statlander about almost signing with WWE in 2019. Kris explained that Curt Hawkins had helped her score work as an extra, including an enhancement spot on the 9 April episode of SmackDown and a SHIMMER match over WrestleMania weekend, after which she connected with Canyon Ceman, WWE's Senior Director of Talent Development.

The two tried to arrange a tryout but struggled with scheduling conflicts, leading to Ceman offering Statlander a deal outright. WWE's vetting process unearthed a couple of innocuous tweets from Statlander containing the words "police" and "fire," which were flagged out of context, with nothing inflammatory stated. This was cleared up and the promotion said they'd be in contact - but it might take a while.

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AEW then came through with a more adaptable deal that would allow Statlander to continue her other career as a massage therapist. She didn't want to ditch this to join WWE, so she opted to go All Elite, batting the bigger promotion back when they mentioned a counteroffer.

Statlander currently sits at number two in the official AEW women's rankings, with a 4-4 record in 2020.

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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.