New AEW Creative Hire Is Not A Replacement For Recently Departed Talent

AEW recently surprised a lot of people when they brought in a podcaster to help out with the company’s long term creative planning. Now, Tony Khan has a new creative mind backstage in AEW, but this didn’t require that anyone else lose a job.

Sean Sapp noted behind Fightful’s paywall that Will Washington’s new role in AEW is not a replacement situation. Leva Bates might have just left the company, but the new face backstage was not brought in to replace her.

For those asking, Will Washington’s job is not what Leva Bates’ job was before her deal expired. This is a completely new role that was created.

As we previously reported, Leva Bates made the announcement this week via Twitter that her time in AEW came to an end. She had a really great four years, but nothing lasts forever.

As of today, my contract with AEW has expired.

The last four years have been quite a ride; I’ve learned so much and grown exponentially. I’ve seen wrestling history take place as someone who was on the team since before the first show. I appreciate & love all the crew, staff and talent; I will cherish all our memories together. I’ve given my time, my focus, and my effort to the company, but now I’ve got to focus on myself, my future and my career. I hope you all, my friends, fans and loved ones, stay with me through this next chapter of my journey. I hope to make you all proud no matter where I go.

We will have to see how AEW might evolve in the years to come. We’re coming up on a time when a lot of contracts are up, especially for some who signed early deals with the company. Obviously, a lot of things can change when someone leaves the company, but the pro wrestling business never stops shifting.

What’s your take on this situation with AEW not renewing Leva Bates’ contract? Sound off in the comments!