Following Meltzer and Alvarez’s reporting, PWInsider Elite provided more information on Andrade and any non-compete WWE had in place for him. While those within WWE, and Andrade himself, had initially believed Andrade could work anywhere he wanted because he wouldn’t receive the 90 days paid most wrestlers receive following their release, the promotion later clarified to him that he would still be unable to work during that time after he began taking independent bookings.

Whether this was a change in direction on WWE’s part or miscommunication between them and Andrade is unclear. One person in WWE explained the promotion’s philosophy on the matter was to not create an environment, or loophole, where wrestlers could leave due to policy violations, and then be able to compete in another promotion as soon as possible. 

Based on that information, it would appear that fans should expect to go without seeing Andrade for a little while. This includes a show in Puerto Rico this weekend where Andrade was scheduled to compete, though it’s now expected he will be pulled, and an upcoming show for The Crash in Tijuana. It’s unclear what this will mean for Andrade’s reign as The Crash Heavyweight Champion, which he won from DMT Azul just days after his AEW return.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit “Wrestling Observer Radio” and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription