# The New Day departure from WWE and potential AEW move

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/the-new-day-departure-from-wwe
> Updated: 2026-08-27T16:41:51.000Z. Sources: 30. Developments: 5.

Professional wrestlers Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, members of the tag team The New Day, departed WWE in May 2026 following disagreements regarding contract restructuring and pay cuts. Following the expiration of their non-compete clauses in early August, industry speculation regarding a move to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has intensified.

Industry veterans have weighed in on the potential move. AJ Styles expressed support, noting the duo has “perfected it in a tag team ring,” while Jim Ross suggested AEW must ensure they have a dedicated spot as a team rather than individual performers. Former teammate Big E noted that while they likely intended to retire in WWE, changes in ownership and the business led to their current free agency.

As of late August 2026, reports suggest the duo is ‘AEW-bound,’ with mounting speculation that they may debut at the ‘All In: London’ event at Wembley Stadium. Potential debut scenarios include participation in a men’s Casino Gauntlet match or involvement in the AEW World Trios Championship match via a ‘wild card’ trio.

Kofi Kingston has filed trademark applications for his legal name, “Kofi Sarkodie-Mensah,” and the initials “KSM,” covering entertainment services and merchandise. Xavier Woods has reportedly taken similar steps. Both wrestlers remain confirmed for the Chris Jericho ‘Rock n’ Wrestling Rager at Sea’ cruise in November 2026, appearing under the names ‘Kofi’ and ‘Austin Creed.’

## Timeline

### 2026-08-27: AEW All In: Rumors of New Day and Ilja Dragunov debuts

Former WWE stars Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, and Ilja Dragunov are rumored to make their AEW debuts at All In: London this weekend at Wembley Stadium.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kofi-kingston-and-xavier-woods-expected-to-debut-for-aew-at-all-in-london

### 2026-08-13: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods face AEW speculation after WWE exit

Former WWE stars Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods face speculation of joining AEW following their departure from WWE and recent trademark filings for Kingston's legal name and 'KSM'.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/the-new-day-rumored-to-debut-in-aew

### 2026-08-11: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods booked for Chris Jericho cruise

Former WWE stars Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods are confirmed for Chris Jericho’s November wrestling cruise amid speculation they may join AEW.

16 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kofi-kingston-and-xavier-woods-plan-new-aew-presentation

### 2026-08-08: The New Day faces speculation over potential AEW signing

Former WWE tag team champions Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods (The New Day) are rumored to be heading to AEW following a contract dispute with WWE.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/the-new-day-faces-speculation-over-potential-aew-signing

### 2026-07-29: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods release cryptic video after WWE exit

Former WWE stars Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods released the “Daybreak” video on July 29, 2026, symbolizing their exit and hinting at a move to AEW after their contracts and non‑compete ended.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kofi-kingston-and-xavier-woods-release-cryptic-video-after-wwe-exit

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Cite as: The New Day departure from WWE and potential AEW move. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/the-new-day-departure-from-wwe