WWE's Reportedly Makes Costly Mistake With David Finlay

A new report has emerged on David Finlay's decision to choose All Elite Wrestling over previous rumors about a WWE run. The former New Japan Pro-Wrestling standout recently joined AEW on the March 4 episode of “Dynamite,” setting a new course for his professional wrestling career and ending weeks of intense speculation regarding his free agency status.

Shortly after his impactful television appearance, Cory Hays of BodySlam reported the specific reasons behind his choice of employer. According to the detailed report, he outright refused to join WWE after being offered what was described as a "lower level contract."

Finlay was reportedly offered a contract strictly to start with the NXT brand in Orlando, Florida. This was considered a lower-tier developmental contract and not indicative of a main roster level commitment from the Stamford-based promotion. When the company refused to adjust their offer, this business approach prompted the 32-year-old competitor to agree to a deal with Tony Khan’s organization within the last week.

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Shortly after his debut and in-ring reunion with Clark Connors and Gabe Kidd, Finlay was officially announced as an All Elite signee. While he was previously heavily speculated to join WWE due to his undeniable talent and lineage, reports soon emerged about the sports entertainment giant not factoring him into their immediate creative plans for “Monday Night Raw” or “Friday Night SmackDown.”

The refusal to budge on the developmental offer ultimately led Finlay to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Fightful Select previously reported that Finlay has officially signed a multi-year deal with Tony Khan's AEW. He has now reunited with Kidd and Connors, and the dangerous trio is officially operating on television under the faction name The Dogs.

Finlay's NJPW contract officially expired in February. Despite his impending free agency and the ongoing negotiations with American promotions, he continued to wrestle through last weekend's New Beginning USA event in order to professionally fulfill his remaining commitments to the Japanese promotion.

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This story was originally published March 5, 2026 at 7:00 AM.