As previously reported, former IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion David Finlay is currently a free agent. His contract with NJPW expired earlier this month, and his final match with the company took place at last night’s The New Beginning USA event, where he faced Fred Rosser in a singles match. Since reports surfaced that Finlay has been exploring opportunities in the U.S., there has been considerable speculation about where he might ultimately end up.
Fightful Select has reported in recent months on WWE's interest in Finlay, noting that communication between Finlay and WWE has occurred. However, there have been no recent updates on this front. Meanwhile, NJPW is reportedly trying to sign him to a new contract.
Amid these developments, speculation has arisen that Finlay may ultimately join AEW. In the latest edition of Fightful Select Answers, Sean Ross Sapp addressed a fan's question regarding claims that AEW is not interested in signing Finlay. Sapp stated that he cannot confirm that rumor, especially since Finlay has previously appeared on AEW television.
Finlay made his AEW in-ring debut in June 2022, facing Adam Page in a losing effort. Sapp mentioned that Finlay's situation is not analogous to that of EVIL or Toru Yano, whom Tony Khan is believed to have less interest in. However, as of now, there is no indication that AEW will reach out to Finlay regarding a contract.
