David Finlay explains decision to join AEW over WWE

Professional wrestler David Finlay has detailed the reasons behind his departure from New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) after 11 years and his subsequent signing with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in March 2026.

Speaking on the ‘Talk Is Jericho’ podcast, Finlay addressed the speculation that he would join WWE’s NXT brand. While he noted having family connections in WWE—including his father, Fit Finlay, and his brother, Uriah Connors—he stated that the decision was driven by the desire for creative freedom. He noted that the AEW package, including pay and scheduling, offered more autonomy.

Finlay also highlighted the opportunity to reunite with former Bullet Club War Dogs teammates Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors in AEW. Additionally, he expressed a reluctance to join WWE due to his established status in Japan; as a two-time IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion who has wrestled at the Tokyo Dome eight times, he felt he would have struggled to ‘re-humble’ himself to the level required by a new promotion. His move to the United States was also motivated by a desire to be closer to his family.