Alberto Del Rio’s name has sparked renewed WWE buzz following the company’s acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA). Despite this, credible insiders confirm the former WWE Champion is not currently in WWE’s plans for a return, contradicting widespread speculation that he might soon reappear on WWE programming.
WWE’s AAA Acquisition Fuels Return Rumors
WWE’s deal to acquire AAA, a major Mexican wrestling promotion, reignited fan hopes for Alberto Del Rio’s comeback since WWE seemingly inherited his AAA contract. Del Rio, a major star in Mexico and a former WWE World Champion, recently made headlines when WWE took over AAA’s operations. Chants of “Alberto!” at AAA events further fueled speculation that WWE could bring him back to the global stage.
However, these rumors are largely unfounded. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter highlighted that while WWE inherited contractual ties, this doesn’t automatically translate to a WWE return for Del Rio. His presence in AAA storylines and fan excitement in Mexico have not translated to WWE developing plans around him so far[1].
Insider Clarification: No WWE Interest in Alberto Del Rio’s Return
Sean Ross Sapp, a respected wrestling journalist, categorically dismissed recent reports of Del Rio’s WWE comeback as “one of the most recycled fake stories” circulating in the industry. Speaking on Fightful Select’s Backstage Report, Sapp emphasized:
“There was another site that reported WWE was interested in Alberto Del Rio. I don’t know how many times we have to debunk that. If WWE wanted him back, he’d be there by now.”[1]
Sapp added that no credible WWE insiders are discussing Del Rio’s return internally, and the company remains focused elsewhere. This stance aligns with multiple reports emphasizing that Del Rio’s past controversies weigh heavily in WWE’s decision-making, keeping him off the roster despite his enduring fan base in Mexico[1][7].
The Context of Past Controversies and WWE’s Caution
Alberto Del Rio, also known as El Patrón, has had a rollercoaster career including multiple WWE runs interspersed with departures and controversial incidents. His AAA tenure saw recent championship success but ended abruptly with storyline exile and limited indie dates in 2025.
WWE’s reluctance to bring him back appears connected to these “previous sins,” as one insider put it[5]. A source close to WWE revealed:
“The risks surrounding Alberto’s past incidents simply don’t match the company’s current priorities. WWE wants to avoid divisive stories and focus on fresh, reliable talent.”[5]
Such caution is understandable given WWE’s emphasis on corporate image and safeguarding backstage environments, especially post-acquisition of AAA’s talent pool.
Del Rio’s AAA Departure and Its Impact on WWE Status
Del Rio’s recent exit from AAA—following a storyline ban and a few sporadic appearances—has not altered WWE’s position. Despite reports that he told AAA locker room members about WWE interest, WWE has no official plans to sign or feature him on television anytime soon[6].
Sources confirm:
- Del Rio lost the AAA Mega Championship in May 2025 after a lengthy 287-day reign.
- He was storyline exiled in July 2025, marking an end to his AAA run.
- WWE has inherited his AAA contract obligations but has not activated or incorporated him into WWE programming[3][6].
Fan Reactions and Industry Perspectives
Fans have circulated petitions and expressed desire for Alberto Del Rio’s return, citing unfinished business and his legacy in Mexico and WWE. However, the division between fan enthusiasm and WWE’s corporate caution remains apparent.
WWE insiders note that while Del Rio retains star power, his involvement could be “more trouble than it’s worth,” especially given WWE’s current focus on developing younger Latino talent and focusing on new global stars.
Summary: Where Does Alberto Del Rio Stand Now?
| Factor | Current Situation |
|---|---|
| WWE Interest | No active plans; no credible WWE source supports return |
| AAA Contract | Inherited by WWE but inactive on brand |
| Past Controversies | Significant factor limiting WWE engagement |
| Fan Demand | High in Mexico but insufficient for WWE booking |
| Recent AAA Activity | Storyline exile, sporadic indie appearances (2025) |
Looking Ahead: Will Alberto Del Rio Return to WWE?
For now, the strongest takeaway is that Alberto Del Rio remains a non-factor in WWE’s booking plans, regardless of fan support or contractual technicalities.
Ringside News promises to update on any future changes but cautions fans to temper expectations based on current insider information[1].
Do you think WWE should give Alberto Del Rio another run? Share your thoughts below as the wrestling world watches closely but pragmatically.
This article is based on reports from Ringside News, Fightful Select, Wrestling Observer Newsletter, and WWE insider sources as of October 2025.