Tony Khan Opens Talks With Kairi Sane
The AEW president has reportedly begun direct contract negotiations with the former WWE star, who was released earlier this year.
Updated on Nov. 15, 2026 in Wrestling
AEW president Tony Khan has initiated direct contract negotiations with Kairi Sane, who was released from WWE earlier in 2026. Fightful Select reports Sane is not currently signed to any contract and has received a substantial number of offers, including some from Japan.
Why it matters
Sane's availability as a free agent makes her one of the more notable talents on the open market, and a signing would add a former multi-time WWE champion to AEW's women's roster. The talks also signal AEW's continued interest in acquiring established performers from rival promotions.
Kairi Sane is a four-time WWE champion, a credential that marks her as one of the most decorated women to leave the company in 2026. The report does not disclose the number or terms of the offers she has received.
The players
Tony Khan
Tony Khan is the founder and president of All Elite Wrestling, based in Jacksonville, Florida, and is also the owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL franchise.
Kairi Sane
Kairi Sane is a Japanese professional wrestler who held the WWE women's championship four times before her release from the company in 2026.
Fightful Select
Fightful Select is a professional wrestling news outlet known for reporting on contract statuses and backstage developments across the industry.
The details
Khan spoke with Sane directly in recent days, and her unsigned status was confirmed as of November 14, 2026. Sane recently made an in-ring appearance at AEW-associated programming on the Jericho Cruise, and clips of her emotional match were widely shared on social media.
Timeline
Earlier in 2026: Sane is released from WWE.
Last week: Sane makes an appearance on the Jericho Cruise.
November 14, 2026: Fightful Select reports Sane remains unsigned.
Tonight, November 14, 2026: Sane is not expected to appear at AEW Full Gear.
Season Trajectory
AEW has repeatedly pursued released WWE talent to strengthen its roster as the two promotions compete for top performers. A signing of Sane would extend that pattern and add a high-profile women's wrestler to AEW's depth ahead of its next major events.
If Sane signs with AEW, fans of the promotion would gain access to a former WWE champion on AEW programming. The reported status is unsigned as of November 14, 2026, so no confirmed change to broadcast schedules has been announced.
The takeaway
Free-agent moves like this one show how quickly a released performer can reshape the talent market between promotions. Readers following wrestling should watch for official announcements rather than unconfirmed contract reports.
Further reading
For more on the business of pro wrestling, browse our Wrestling coverage.
