Jake Hager Confirms Exactly When His AEW Contract Expired

Jake Hager, who joined AEW in 2019 and became a key member of Chris Jericho’s stables, has confirmed his departure from the promotion. The 42-year-old wrestler, who first aligned with Jericho as part of the Inner Circle and later the Jericho Appreciation Society, decided to step away when his contract expired in June.

Hager’s last in-ring appearance came in February on AEW Rampage, where he faced off against Roderick Strong and took a loss. By May, reports surfaced that Hager’s AEW deal had run its course, and he chose not to renew.

In a recent appearance on Stories with Brisco and Bradshaw, Hager confirmed that he has moved on from the promotion and is currently exploring new chapters in his life. “Yeah, it’s interesting. I’m excited to find out (what’s next). My contract expired with AEW in June, so I just left them. I’m currently working independents but, I’m 42 and I think it’s time to….I don’t know. I wanna find a way to be home more with my kids,” he shared.

Hager spoke about his focus on business ventures and spending quality time with his family. “I’m looking into more business opportunities, construction, and rental properties, and I’d love to sit down with you, John, and get some pointers about announcing and maybe stay on camera that way. But really, just doing what I can. I had a great career, very blessed to have that career so, now, it’s kind of easier. The pressure’s off, and just try to be a good dad and good example for my kids.”

Earlier this month, Hager made waves by criticizing AEW President Tony Khan, accusing him of silencing him during his time with the promotion and labeling him a “communist.”

For Hager, the future holds possibilities outside the squared circle as he balances his passion for wrestling with new business pursuits and being present for his family.