The wrestling world is buzzing with anticipation as Mariah May’s future hangs in the balance between two major promotions. While AEW has quietly scrubbed the former women’s champion from their official roster listings, the story behind her departure reveals a complex web of contractual obligations and backstage tensions that have wrestling insiders talking.
Contract Chaos: What’s Really Happening Behind the Scenes
The situation surrounding May’s employment status has created significant confusion within wrestling circles. Despite AEW removing her profile from their roster page, her representatives have made it clear through Fightful Select that her deal remains technically active as of May 30, 2025.
This discrepancy between AEW’s public actions and the actual contract status suggests internal complications that go beyond typical roster management. When a company removes a talent from their official listings while that person remains under contract, it often signals relationship breakdowns that can’t be easily repaired.
WWE’s Strategic Positioning
Sources within WWE have indicated that the company is already laying groundwork for May’s eventual arrival. This proactive approach demonstrates how seriously WWE views her potential value to their women’s division.
The timing couldn’t be more strategic for WWE, as they continue building depth in their women’s roster across multiple brands. May’s championship experience and international appeal make her an attractive acquisition for a company always looking to expand their global reach.
The Revolution Aftermath and Growing Discontent
May’s troubles with AEW became more apparent following her championship loss to Toni Storm at AEW Revolution 2025. Her subsequent absence from programming raised eyebrows among fans who had grown accustomed to seeing the talented performer regularly featured.
The wrestling community began connecting dots when May started showing visible signs of frustration with her treatment. Her social media activity and public comments suggested someone who felt undervalued by her current employer.
Hotel Room Controversy Reveals Deeper Issues
Perhaps the most telling sign of May’s deteriorating relationship with AEW came through her candid vlog during a Chicago trip for Dynamite and Rampage tapings. Her comments about accommodation arrangements provided rare insight into talent treatment behind the scenes:
“So, I’m coming to you from Chicago. I checked the view, but like there’s not really anything to write home about. I got really screwed over with the rooms. Everybody came in my room. I was like, ‘Oh.’ I’m like, ‘What do you mean?’ Oh. So, I feel like everyone else has like a gorgeous view of the skyline. I’m not killing it so much.”
Her frustration became even more evident when responding to fan inquiries about the hotel situation. A simple “What’s new” reply to a supporter’s tweet spoke volumes about her mindset regarding AEW’s treatment.
Industry Implications of the Move
May’s potential jump to WWE represents more than just another talent acquisition. It highlights the ongoing competition between major promotions and how quickly relationships can sour in professional wrestling.
For AEW, losing a former champion who helped establish credibility for their women’s division could signal broader issues with talent retention. The company has worked hard to build their women’s roster, making each departure particularly significant.
WWE’s apparent confidence in securing May’s services also demonstrates their continued aggressive approach to talent acquisition, especially when competitors show vulnerability.
What Comes Next?
The wrestling industry will be watching closely as this contractual drama unfolds. May’s eventual destination could influence how other talents view their options and career trajectories.
With WWE reportedly expressing strong interest and making preparations for her arrival, the question isn’t whether she’ll make the jump, but rather when and how it will happen. Will AEW make a last-ditch effort to repair the relationship, or has this bridge already been burned beyond repair?
