After six years with WWE, SmackDown star Santos Escobar is officially a free agent. His contract expired at midnight on October 7, 2025, and multiple sources confirm that despite WWE’s efforts to retain him—including a higher financial offer—Escobar has chosen not to re-sign, making him one of the most significant free agents in professional wrestling today[2][3].
Santos Escobar’s WWE Journey
Born Jorge Bolly, Escobar built a strong reputation in Mexico’s CMLL and AAA, and later as “King Cuerno” in the cult hit Lucha Underground. He signed with WWE in 2019, debuting in NXT as El Hijo del Fantasma before unmasking and adopting the Santos Escobar persona[2].
In NXT, Escobar became a central figure by winning the Cruiserweight Championship during the pandemic, after original champion Jordan Devlin was unable to travel due to COVID-19 restrictions. His reign lasted nearly a year, culminating in a high-profile unification match at TakeOver: Stand & Deliver in April 2021[2]. After losing the title to KUSHIDA, Escobar remained a fixture in NXT’s tag team and faction scene.
Escobar’s main roster call-up came in the fall of 2022, alongside stablemates Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro as Legado Del Fantasma[2]. The group quickly became fan favorites, but Escobar’s creative direction shifted in 2025, with the star used more in a managerial/on-screen authority role than as an active competitor. His last televised match was a loss to Rey Fenix in May, and he hasn’t appeared regularly on SmackDown in months[1].
Contract Negotiations and Creative Frustrations
According to Fightful Select, WWE sources confirmed Escobar’s contract was set to expire “very soon,” and while discussions about a possible extension took place, no agreement was reached[1]. PWInsider reports that WWE made a “very aggressive” offer—including a raise—to keep Escobar, but he ultimately declined, signaling creative frustrations rather than financial issues as the primary reason for his departure[3][5].
“It wasn’t about the money,” a WWE insider close to the situation told Wrestling News. “Santos wanted to wrestle. He wanted creative that reflected his in-ring talent, and it didn’t seem to be in the cards for him at WWE right now. Both sides tried, but it just wasn’t a fit anymore.”[5]
This narrative is supported by Escobar’s recent social media posts, which hinted at dissatisfaction with his role and a desire for change as the calendar turned to October[1]. Despite being featured as part of the Latino World Order and forming alliances with Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo, Escobar’s on-screen involvement steadily dwindled in 2025, leading to speculation about his future.
Impact on Legado Del Fantasma and SmackDown
Escobar’s departure leaves Legado Del Fantasma in an interesting position. Angel and Berto (Los Garza) appeared on last week’s SmackDown representing the group, but none of Escobar’s previous partners have publicly commented about his status[3]. It remains to be seen whether WWE recasts the group’s leadership or phases out the faction entirely.
The loss of Escobar also marks another departure from WWE’s Lucha libre talent pool, following a year of significant roster changes. WWE has historically prized international stars, but recent creative decisions have seen several lucha-adjacent performers shift roles or leave the company.
What’s Next for Santos Escobar?
With a proven track record in WWE, CMLL, AAA, and Lucha Underground, Santos Escobar is one of the most technically gifted and charismatic free agents to hit the market in years. His experience in both trios and singles competition, combined with his natural promo ability, makes him a valuable asset—especially for promotions looking to expand internationally.
Potential landing spots include All Elite Wrestling (AEW), New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), and a return to Mexico’s AAA or CMLL. AEW, in particular, has aggressively pursued international talents and would benefit from Escobar’s bilingual appeal and in-ring versatility. NJPW’s junior heavyweight division could also be a natural fit, given Escobar’s style and popularity with Japanese fans during his Lucha Underground days.
“He’s got options. That’s for sure,” said a talent relations source outside WWE. “AEW has been working hard for more exposure in Mexico, and Santos fits what they’re trying to do. But Japan, Puerto Rico, or even Impact could make sense if he wants to work less often but still be featured.”[2]
Escobar’s Legacy and What His Departure Means for WWE
Santos Escobar’s WWE run was marked by championship success, faction leadership, and a loyal fanbase—but also by creative frustrations and a sense of unfulfilled potential. While he was never a main-event player on SmackDown, his matches and storytelling in NXT—especially during