Backstage WWE and AEW Rumors on Bayley, The New Day and More

The pro wrestling rumor mill continues to churn out the latest from the industry's top insiders.

On tap is the latest on Bayley's contractual status with WWE, New Day's impending AEW debut, and the decision not to change the name of a recently debuted Superstar.

Latest on Bayley's Contract Situation

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Bryan Alvarez reported on Wrestling Observer Live that those in AEW are "baffled" by the situation regarding Bayley and the speculation that she could be joining the company.

He added that there is "belief her deal is not up for a while, maybe as long as January, and that is if they don't add any time."

After shooting an injury angle at the conclusion of her match with Lyra Valkyria on Saturday Night's Main Event this past July, and considering her friendship with AEW's Mercedes Mone, it is a logical expectation that AEW is on the table for The Role Model.

It is difficult to imagine Bayley sitting on the sidelines for six months as her contract winds down. If WWE suspects that she may be leaving, though, it could be a possibility, as the company would not want to heat her up creatively if she is not sticking around.

Regardless of where she ends up, pro wrestling is better with Bayley, who has been a consummate professional in the ring and one of the most influential in the industry outside it, thanks to her efforts with Lodestone Wrestling, her training camps for independent wrestling's top female talent.

Update on New Day to AEW

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The New Day's exit from WWE was one of 2026's biggest stories as one of the most decorated tag teams in company history recognized their value, refused to take a pay cut, and instead opted to depart the promotion.

Most believed it was only a matter of time before the team showed up in AEW.

Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select provided an update on their impending arrival in the rival promotion.

"While the sources wouldn't outright confirm the acquisitions of Austin Creed and Kofi, it was noted that it is expected that they are joining the company soon as well."

With All In coming up on August 30, and Cope and Christian slated to defend the AEW World Tag Team Championship against The Young Bucks, what better way to debut a team with a claim to the "greatest of all time" label than by confronting those two teams after the match?

Regardless of how and when they debut, expect a refreshed and motivated New Day to deliver some of their finest work in years as they prove to their former employers that they have plenty left to contribute.

Latest on Zilla Fatu

Zilla Fatu made his long-awaited WWE debut on Tuesday's NXT, taking out anyone in his path and announcing himself as the newest threat on the black-and-silver roster.

Notably, he was clearly referred to as "Zilla Fatu," and all social media recapping his debut did so as well.

Fale Finish reported on X that it was always the plan for him to use his established name.

This comes on the heels of Mike Santana's debut and his name change to Cruz Montana.

As a member of the legendary Samoan family tree, it makes sense that the company would want to preserve a name that fans know, especially if the goal is to join the Bloodline on the main roster.

There is still time for things to change, but considering the company has already launched its first piece of merchandise with its name on it, it would appear this is one instance where that will not occur.