MJF’s AEW contract was nearing its expiration, sparking rumors and conflicting reports about WWE’s interest in him. However, the former AEW World Champion made his return at Double or Nothing, shocking fans by not only revealing a new contract with AEW but also debuting an AEW tattoo. Now that he holds the AEW American Championship, MJF is opening up about that supposed interest from WWE.
AEW American Champion MJF recently addressed the much-hyped bidding war of 2024 and the interest he received from WWE. For years, MJF had been promoting the idea of a bidding war of 2024 on AEW television, as his AEW contract was initially set to expire that year. He even said during promos that he might give his old friend Bruce Prichard a call.
The anticipated bidding war never truly materialized, as MJF reportedly re-signed with AEW long-term back in 2022, securing a substantial pay increase. In an interview with WrestleTalk, MJF discussed the outcome of the bidding war, proudly declaring that he “won” after re-signing with AEW. With a significant financial boost from the deal, MJF didn’t shy away from boasting about his newfound wealth, making it clear how much money he now possesses. While this might be a tactic to generate heat from fans, it could also be the plain truth.
“I won. I’m f*cking rich as shit. It’s f**king crazy, dude. I literally… you don’t fcking understand… I have so much money. It’s hilarious. The whole locker room f*cking hates me because they all know how much I’m making, and they… it’s peanuts in comparison.
“And I’m only 28. So you’ve got guys walking around in their 40s who have given their bodies to this industry, they’re practically dying, and they aren’t even making a fraction of what I make. It’s f*cking great.
“Tony… I mean, my god, my god, showed me the number – I signed fast. Fast. Anyway, so yes, I won, to answer your question.”
When asked whether he had discussions with WWE ahead of the supposed bidding war, MJF said he couldn’t answer for legal reasons, hinting at the possibility of contract tampering.
“I can’t answer that (if he had talks with WWE) for legal reasons, because if I did have conversations with WWE, that would be considered what? (Contract tampering.)”
WWE has faced accusations of contract tampering in the past, but none have resulted in significant consequences. It remains to be seen if more details will emerge from MJF’s insinuations, potentially leading to further accusations against WWE’s approach to contract negotiations.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on this situation, as anything could happen next. One thing is certain: AEW is not losing MJF anytime soon. Only time will tell if retaining him will prove to be the best decision for the self-proclaimed Salt of the Earth.
MJF is set to defend his AEW American Title against Will Ospreay at All In on August 31. The match, held at Wembley Stadium for the renamed International Title, could be a pivotal moment in MJF’s career, with many more significant matches likely to come in AEW.
What’s your take on WWE possibly engaging in contract tampering? Do you think Tony Khan has enough evidence to pursue legal action? Let us know in the comments section!