# Samantha Irvin professional wrestling career transition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/samantha-irvin-professional-wrestling-career-transition
> Updated: 2026-10-27T12:31:54.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

Former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin, now using the name Samantha Johnson, is approaching free agency following the expiration of a 24-month non-compete clause in late October 2026. This clause was triggered by her departure from WWE in October 2024.

Irvin has clarified her career intentions via social media, stating she declined a record deal from WWE because she has no interest in the music industry. Instead, she expressed that her professional goal is to transition into a role as a manager.

Addressing rumors surrounding her exit, Irvin denied allegations that she breached her contract or spoke negatively about WWE. Responding to social media comments, she stated, “Didn’t breach, didn’t talk trash, didn’t want to do the above.”

While reports suggest All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has internally discussed hiring her for an on-screen role, and noting her frequent backstage appearances at their events, she is not expected to join the promotion immediately upon becoming a free agent.

## Claims

- Samantha Irvin's two-year non-compete clause is set to expire later this month. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- WWE offered Samantha Irvin a record deal which she declined. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Irvin's professional interest is in managing wrestlers. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- AEW has internally discussed a potential on-screen role for Irvin. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Irvin is not expected to join AEW immediately upon becoming a free agent. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Irvin requested her exit from WWE in October 2024. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Irvin has been a guest backstage at numerous AEW events. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: Samantha Irvin addresses WWE departure and contract allegations

Samantha Irvin has denied allegations of breaching her WWE contract or criticizing the company, while also clarifying that she turned down a music deal to focus on wrestling management.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/samantha-irvin-addresses-wwe-departure-and-contract-allegations

### 2026-10-25: Samantha Irvin to become free agent following WWE departure

Former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin will become a free agent this month as her non-compete expires. AEW has reportedly discussed hiring her, though she previously declined a WWE music deal to pursue talent

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/samantha-irvin-to-become-free-agent-following-wwe-departure

### 2026-10-23: Samantha Irvin to reach free agency following WWE non-compete

Former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin will hit free agency this month following the expiration of a two-year non-compete clause.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/samantha-irvin-to-reach-free-agency-following-wwe-non-compete

---
Cite as: Samantha Irvin professional wrestling career transition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/samantha-irvin-professional-wrestling-career-transition