The professional wrestling landscape was jolted on the March 4 episode of AEW Dynamite when former New Japan Pro-Wrestling standout David Finlay made his shocking debut for Tony Khan’s promotion. The arrival ended weeks of intense speculation regarding his free agency, but new reports suggest the path to his signing was highly competitive.
Declining an NXT Offer for an “All Elite” Deal
Prior to his Dynamite appearance, Finlay was heavily rumored to be heading to WWE. However, Cory Hays of BodySlam recently reported that the 32-year-old fourth-generation wrestler explicitly refused an offer from the Stamford-based promotion. According to the report, Finlay was presented with a “lower level contract” that would have placed him on the NXT developmental brand, rather than a lucrative main roster deal. Dissatisfied with the terms and the lack of immediate main roster creative plans, Finlay pivoted and agreed to a deal with AEW within the last week.
The details of his new home were corroborated by Fightful Select, which previously reported that Finlay has officially signed a multi-year agreement with AEW. Finlay’s contract with NJPW officially expired in February, though he professionally fulfilled his remaining commitments by wrestling through the recent New Beginning USA events.
Finlay wasted no time making his presence felt in his new environment. Upon his debut, he immediately reunited with his former War Dogs stablemates, Clark Connors and Gabe Kidd, effectively establishing a dangerous new faction known as “The Dogs.” The acquisition of Finlay represents a significant coup for AEW as they continue to bolster their roster with top-tier international talent.