AEW Full-Gear is only days away. This leaves fans speculating about possible outcomes, surprises, and events we may see at the event. There have been many releases from WWE in the past year, including headliners, fan favorites, and promising upcomers.
However, recent releases will have to wait for their non-compete clause to run out. There are a handful of other released wrestlers who would be eligible. The final PPV of the year for AEW is sure to hold some surprises, with at least one former WWE Superstar likely to make their debut.
Many wrestlers not on this list have gone quiet, most likely revamping themselves before joining another promotion. Others have not been so discreet, providing hints and showing off on social media. These are 5 former WWE stars we may see debut at AEW Full-Gear:
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5. AEW Full-Gear could see Bray Wyatt debut
Windham Rotunda, better known as Bray Wyatt, has caused a stir leading up to AEW Full-Gear. Rotunda was a major star in WWE, notably being the leader of the Wyatt Family and transitioning into the Fiend. His sudden release still makes little sense to fans and there's a clamoring to see him return to the squared-circle.
During his time at WWE, Rotunda had very limited creative control, despite the Fiend being his brainchild. Should he debut at AEW, he'll have far more creative control, but will likely have to tone down his supernatural antics.
Rotunda could likely make an appearance during Malakai Black and Andrade "El Idolo"s match against Cody Rhodes and PAC. Rotunda could cause interference during the match to swing the favor. Imagine Rotunda appearing after a blackout to attack Rhodes? It's a moment that could definitely end up on a Top 10 Moments list somewhere.
Rotunda has confirmed to be working on a movie. So his appearance might not happen at Full-Gear, and if it does he'll make limited appearances thereafter.
4. Primo & Epico making a return at AEW Full-Gear
The Colóns were released over a year ago. The cousins come from a family of wrestlers and would be outstanding additions to the AEW roster. They will provide high intensity, action and a fast paced style perfect for the promotion.
Carlos Colón Snr., Primo's father, began his wrestling career in the 60s. After a brief tenure in the USA, Carlos Snr. would return to Puerto Rico where he would make a name for himself. He would have feuds with none other than Ric Flair and other notable wrestlers during the 80s. Ultimately retiring in the 90s to begin training his sons and nephew.
While Carlito Colón made an appearance in WWE during 2021's Royal Rumble, the Colóns have not done much since their release. The tag team was terribly booked in WWE, being involved in ridiculous gimmicks. Both wrestlers are fantastic in the ring and work well together.
AEW has one of the best tag-team rosters in wrestling, and the veteran Colóns would make a great addition. The Colóns could be worked into the AEW Tag Team championship picture and play a vital role in the division moving forward.
Worst case scenario, having the Colóns work backstage training future tag teams would be a great asset to AEW.
3. Bronson Reed could debut at Full-Gear
Jermaine Haley went by the name Bronson Reed while with WWE, being a stand-out star in NXT. His tenure with WWE lasted a little over two years before unfortunately being released in August.
While at WWE, he burst onto the scene and showed fans a special wrestler. Haley might not be built like the conventionally, but he is quick and powerful. He reminded fans of Hall of Fame wrestlers like Bam Bam Bigelow and Big Van Vader, both of whom he paid homage to through his attire. Haley is not only a wrestler, but a wrestling fan. That type of passion is what the roster of AEW needs and what the promotion encourages.
Haley has been heavily connected with IMPACT Wrestling, and there have been rumors of him debuting there instead. AEW's relationship with IMPACT has changed so he will likely not cross between the promotions.
2. Tyler Breeze and Fandango could make appearances at AEW Full-Gear
Fandango and Breeze are veteran wrestlers fans hope to see in AEW. "Prince Pretty" and "Dirty Dango" are both veteran wrestlers with flamboyant gimmicks.
Together, the duo portrayed narcissistic heels that looked down on fans and their opponents. Beneath these gimmicks, both men are exceptional wrestlers. Breezango never truly got a push, even when they gained tremendous popularity.
It is disappointing that both wrestlers have such talent, but only held one tag team title. This is something fans would love to see reversed at AEW. The duo could debut with interference or ambush anyone on the roster. In the past, Breezango has shown the ability to work with just about anyone.
Unfortunately there's a possibility that neither may debut, or that only one of the duo does. Breeze has not made a wrestling appearance in some time, and Fandango has gone to the Independent Circuit where he wrestles as "Dirty Dango".
Both wrestlers could at least make a once-off appearance, but we'll have to wait until AEW Full-Gear to see if either do.
1. EC3 could appear at Full-Gear
EC3 or, Derrick Bateman, as he goes by now, is one of the most underrated wrestlers out there. Not only does he possess physique and skill, he also cuts exceptional promos. Bateman has worked in many different promotions. AEW could be the next place for him to make his name.
Bateman made his first appearance in WWE during 2010 on the NXT brand. His run was during the fourth season with NXT alumni, Bryan Danielson, as his mentor. Bateman would continue appearing in other seasons of NXT following its revamp. He was never given a chance to truly show his mettle, being released on May 13, 2013.
Bateman then debuted at TNA, where he would have a more successful run. Being crowned TNA World Champion twice. In 2018, Bateman returned to WWE, where he would compete until his release in 2020.
Bateman's success in TNA proves that he is a strong competitor, and a leading man. In AEW, Bateman could continue with his gimmick as "The Narrative". A debut at Full-Gear would be perfect to set him up within AEW.