Sean Ross Sapp recently addressed the controversy surrounding WWE's non-compete clauses, particularly in relation to former stars Andrade and Samantha Irvin in the latest edition of Fightful Select Answers. He explained how these clauses work for main roster talent. When WWE releases a performer, they enter a 90-day non-compete period. It’s important to note that this period is actually referred to as a “notice of termination” rather than a formal non-compete.
Sapp also discussed whether WWE has the ability to change its decision to release talent during the non-compete period. He spoke with several industry agents who believe that while WWE could potentially modify its decision, it is generally unprecedented. The closest example of this happening is the situation with Drake Maverick in April 2020. Although WWE confirmed his release, they allowed him to compete in the Interim Cruiserweight Championship tournament.
The recent controversy surrounding Andrade and Irvin is slightly different. According to Fightful, instead of changing their decision, WWE signed Maverick to a completely different contract after his release. Maverick was ultimately released again in November 2021.
Despite the fact that WWE has not yet officially altered a release decision, it seems likely that such a situation could occur in the future.
