Alberto Del Rio has recently spoken out about the persistent chants of his name from fans during WWE x AAA events, amidst swirling rumors about a possible return to WWE following the company’s acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide.
Fan Chants Ignite Return Speculation
During recent WWE x AAA crossover shows, fans have notably chanted “Alberto Del Rio!” in the crowd, sparking widespread speculation about his future in WWE since the promotion’s takeover of AAA in early 2025. Del Rio, a former six-time WWE World Champion, hasn’t been part of WWE programming since his controversial exits in 2014 and 2016 but remained active in AAA under the ring name Alberto El Patrón in 2024 and 2025.
Del Rio acknowledged the chants, remarking in a recent interview that he hears the fans loud and clear but remains cautious about prematurely confirming any WWE comeback. “It’s flattering to hear my name from the crowd, especially during these WWE and AAA shows. It shows that the fans still remember me,” he stated. “But right now, my focus is on performing and being the best in the ring, wherever that takes me next.”
Mixed Messages Behind the Scenes
Though fan enthusiasm for Del Rio’s return is palpable, WWE’s official stance remains restrained. Following WWE’s acquisition of AAA, Del Rio’s existing contractual obligations technically transferred to WWE. However, insiders report that WWE leadership, particularly under Triple H, has no current plans to reintegrate Del Rio onto its roster.
According to multiple industry sources, WWE’s reluctance largely stems from Del Rio’s tumultuous past within the company, including backstage issues, wellness policy violations, and legal troubles that undermined his previous runs. One WWE insider confided, “Despite the fan clamor and some locker room support, WWE wants to avoid reopening old chapters that could bring headaches.” They added that while top stars like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre, and even The Undertaker have privately advocated for giving Del Rio another chance, the company remains firm in its decision for now[1][2][4].
Support from Wrestling Legends and Locker Room
Behind the scenes, several main-event talents and veterans have voiced their support for Del Rio’s return. Lucha libre legend Rey Mysterio publicly responded to chants for Del Rio at AAA’s Triplemania XXXIII in August 2025, teasing, “I’ll bring him, wait on me,” which fans interpreted as a hint toward a future reunion[1][4].
Veterans like Jim Ross and Teddy Long have praised Del Rio’s in-ring ability, emphasizing the potential for a careful, story-driven comeback to maximize his impact. Some wrestling figures even advocated for a fresh character direction, including rumors of a politically charged pro-American heel gimmick, though those ideas remain speculative and reportedly have not progressed beyond internal discussions[1].
The “Loser Leaves Town” Match and Its Impact
Del Rio’s exit from AAA was marked by a tragic “Loser Leaves Town” match loss to El Mesías in July 2025, effectively ending his AAA run just as WWE completed the promotion’s acquisition[2][3]. This stipulation heightened fan hopes that Del Rio’s next chapter could be with WWE, especially given the precedent of other AAA stars like Dominik Mysterio making seamless crossovers.
However, WWE has yet to incorporate Del Rio into any crossover storytelling or WWE programming. Sources close to WWE describe the situation as “in limbo,” with no clear path forward. The company appears cautious about reopening contractual negotiations, balancing fan interest against internal risk assessments.
Why WWE Remains Hesitant
The “no return” sentiment inside WWE is underscored by concerns about Del Rio’s prior conduct, which included controversial backstage incidents, altercations, and violations of company policies. WWE officials reportedly feel these issues overshadow the potential benefits of a comeback, especially given the presence of younger talents who better fit WWE’s long-term vision.
A senior WWE official remarked, “While Alberto Del Rio was undeniably a top talent, we have to prioritize the locker room culture and the company’s image. At this time, bringing him back doesn’t align with our strategic goals.” They noted that should Del Rio demonstrate a renewed commitment to professionalism outside WWE, conversations could eventually reopen, but for now, the position is clear[2][3].
What Del Rio’s Future Might Hold
Although WWE remains noncommittal, Alberto Del Rio continues to express enthusiasm for wrestling and connecting with fans worldwide. Independent circuits and international promotions remain viable platforms for him to perform, and his name continues to generate buzz, partly fueled by fan chants and backstage advocates.
Some experts speculate that if WWE changes its policy or leadership perspective in the future, or if Del Rio reinvents his character to align with WWE’s current storytelling, a return could eventually materialize. Until then, however, Del Rio’s WWE return remains a tantalizing but unresolved storyline.
Backstage Quote: “The fans want him back, and some of the locker room thinks he deserves it, but WWE’s top brass is playing it safe. They’re not eager to revisit that chapter anytime soon,” said a trusted WWE source familiar with talent decisions.
By combining fan enthusiasm, backstage support, and WWE’s cautious approach, Alberto Del Rio’s situation exemplifies the complex dynamics of wrestling returns in a corporate and creative environment. For now, fans will have to keep chanting and waiting.