4 AEW Originals who are no longer with the company
On January 8, 2019, AEW held its inaugural press conference in Jacksonville, Florida. The primary purpose was to introduce the wrestling community to the original AEW roster, which included independent standouts and several former WWE Superstars.
Since its inception, AEW has continuously added big names to its already loaded roster. However, in recent months, several AEW Originals have departed the company. Today, we're looking at four of these stars who are no longer with the promotion:
#4. Jack Evans
Before signing with AEW, Jack Evans was a regular on many prominent independent rosters. Evans made a name for himself on AAA, Lucha Underground, and Dragon Gate, to name a few.
While not mentioned during the inaugural AEW press conference, Evans was signed shortly after and made his debut at AEW's first pay-per-view event, Double or Nothing. There, Evans teamed up with Angelico in a losing effort against The Best Friends.
Evans was scarcely booked during his time with AEW, mostly appearing on AEW Dark. His contract ended in April, and it wasn't renewed. The 20-year veteran has since returned to the independent scene.
#3. Joey Janela
Joey Janela is one of the most loved or hated pro wrestlers on the planet, depending on who you ask. He's full of confidence and charisma, and he has a big personality.
Janela made a name for himself in the 2010s in various independent companies. His performance at the Progress Wrestling New York City event gained widespread attention from promoters. Joey was later announced as one of the first AEW signees at the inaugural press conference in Jacksonville, Florida.
youtu.be/my704d_l-a8Delete this @AEW twitter.com/AEW/status/148…
Despite the anticipation surrounding his addition to the company, Joey's AEW career was hindered by lackluster booking. Janela's AEW run ended in May when his contract expired and wasn't renewed.
#2. Marko Stunt
At the inaugural AEW pay-per-view, Double or Nothing, there was a pint-sized brawler named Marko Stunt. For many fans, this was their first time seeing the 5'2" star.
Soon, Stunt found himself in an alliance with Jungle Boy & Luchasaurus. The trio, collectively known as Jurassic Express, were an instant hit with fans. Marko provided ringside support rather than in-ring assistance. However, when the time came, Stunt was always up for a fight.
Marko recently revealed that he wasn't going to continue with the company. Stunt stated that after a communication breakdown between himself and Tony Khan, he was finally informed that the company wouldn't renew his contract. Stunt doesn't seem upset about the revelation as he's looking to start his own promotion in the future.
#1. Former AEW EVP Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes is one of the cornerstones of the foundation upon which the promotion was built. Cody started with the company in its infancy as one of the Executive Vice Presidents. By most accounts, he was extremely successful in helping the company get off the ground and running. Rhodes was vital behind the scenes and prominent in the ring. He won the TNT Championship three times!
All good things must end, which is especially true in pro wrestling, as Rhodes couldn't agree to terms with Tony Khan regarding the renewal of his contract. While there was plenty of speculation about his next move, he kicked off a new chapter at WrestleMania 38. There, Rhodes made his surprise WWE return and defeated Seth Rollins inside a packed AT&T Stadium.
IT'S CODY RHODES!!!!!!!!
@CodyRhodes has arrived at #WrestleMania! https://t.co/bKDBPLCKKr
The American Nightmare is currently sidelined due to a torn pectoral muscle. As of this writing, WWE isn't expecting Rhodes to return until at least the beginning of 2023. With that said, Cody has made it clear that "he has plans of his own."