Reasons Behind Ethan Page Leaving AEW to Debut on WWE NXT

More details have reportedly emerged on former AEW star Ethan Page’s surprise debut on “WWE NXT.” Page made his debut in WWE’s developmental territory this week, having last been seen on network TV with AEW in December of the previous year.

According to Fightful Select, Page has signed with WWE after leaving his former promotion, but it remains unclear whether he was released or his contract expired.

Page had reportedly informed some industry insiders that he aimed to be a free agent by late spring. He wanted to keep his AEW departure under wraps until he appeared elsewhere, though this wasn’t necessarily specific to his WWE move.

Regarding his WWE deal, it was reportedly finalized over the past week, and he had a behind-closed-doors visit to the WWE Performance Center during that time.

The report also notes that WWE officials are pleased with his “NXT” debut, and main roster sources have since expressed their excitement about Page joining the company.

Page seemingly left AEW at the beginning of May after his profile was removed from the company’s roster page.

He joined AEW in 2021 but spent his final days there competing under Tony Khan’s promotional umbrella with ROH, with his last appearance occurring on February 10.

Page had been in contact with WWE prior to his AEW debut, stating that the conversations were positive, but he had already committed to joining Khan’s promotion.

“All Ego” isn’t the only person to depart from AEW, as Arn Anderson and Mark Henry confirmed their exits this week. Additionally, it has been reported that Jake Hager’s AEW contract has also expired.