Credit: AEW
The tag team known as The Righteous, comprising Vincent (Vinny) and Dutch, are reportedly wrapping up their independent wrestling commitments amid growing WWE interest in signing the duo. After previously competing in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and Ring of Honor (ROH), this development signals a likely transition to WWE in the near future.
Background: From ROH and AEW to the Independent Circuit
Vincent and Dutch initially gained prominence in Ring of Honor, where they made a significant impact in the tag team division. Along with their former partner Bateman, they even captured the ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Championship, cementing their reputation as a formidable trio in the promotion.
In mid-2023, The Righteous signed with AEW/ROH, where they competed primarily on AEW Collision and ROH branded shows. Their association with WWE Hall of Famer Jake “The Snake” Roberts added star power and credibility to their run. Their final documented AEW match took place at the Final Battle pay-per-view, concluding with a loss to the team of Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara in a double bullrope match. By May of this year, both Vincent and Dutch parted ways with AEW, leading to a return to the independent scene.
WWE’s Renewed Interest and Previous Tryouts
WWE’s interest in signing The Righteous is not a sudden development. The team participated in an exclusive WWE tryout session back in December 2022, just before Vince McMahon’s controversial return to the company, which immediately placed a freeze on all new hires. This pause delayed any potential signing, ultimately leading the duo to choose AEW over WWE at that time.
Now, with their AEW contract expired and independent dates concluding, sources indicate WWE is reconsidering the team. According to Fightful Select, The Righteous have informed independent promoters they are finishing their indie bookings in the coming months, a clear sign they are preparing for a new opportunity. Industry insiders say WWE’s signing of The Righteous is “likely,” reflecting the company’s renewed confidence in their potential contribution to the tag division.
Influential Advocates Behind the Scenes
Several talents within WWE have reportedly advocated on behalf of The Righteous to facilitate their signing. Among the vocal supporters is Elijah (formerly known as Elias), a former WWE star, who has actively pushed for bringing Vincent and Dutch into WWE. Elijah has collaborated with the duo on vignettes earlier this year, hinting at future storylines and partnerships.
In addition, the late Bray Wyatt was a major proponent of The Righteous joining WWE. Wyatt reportedly envisioned a stable involving Vincent and Dutch, believing their unique style and presence could create something compelling on WWE programming. A WWE insider explained,
“Bray was really invested in these guys. He saw something special in their dynamic and wanted them in WWE years ago. Now with him gone, there’s momentum from others in the company picking up that torch.”
Dutch’s Past Ties With WWE
Of the two, Dutch has previous experience within WWE’s developmental system. Trained by Steve Keirn, Dutch spent over a year in Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), WWE’s former developmental territory, before departing in 2011. For Dutch, returning to WWE would be a full-circle moment, reigniting a connection to the company that he had established early in his career.
Vincent, by contrast, would be making his WWE debut, bringing fresh energy and style to the roster as part of the tag team.
Potential Impact for WWE’s Tag Team Division
The addition of The Righteous could bolster WWE’s tag team roster, providing renewed competition and fresh storylines. Their hard-hitting style, combined with an edgy look and presence, would complement both RAW and SmackDown’s evolving tag divisions.
Expectations are high that the team could be incorporated into some form of alliance or stable, possibly leveraging Elijah’s involvement or paying homage to Bray Wyatt’s vision. With WWE’s focus on strengthening its tag team scene, The Righteous seem poised to be a significant addition.