Andrade Explains 2023 AEW Exit For Personal Reasons

Andrade El Idolo departed AEW in 2023 and returned to WWE. His wife at the time, Charlotte Flair, was already working there.

Andrade left WWE in September 2025, one year after his divorce from Charlotte Flair. He soon returned to AEW following that exit.

In an interview, Andrade described the 2023 move as personally positive but professionally disappointing. His AEW contract had ended, requiring him to choose between the companies.

Andrade stated that he selected WWE to support his personal life and marriage rather than for professional reasons. He expressed gratitude to Tony Khan for the initial opportunity and hoped to work together again in the future.

Upon his return to AEW, Andrade said he accepted the second chance and now aims to demonstrate his abilities in the ring. He intends to repay the opportunity by defending the AEW National Championship, assisting locker room members, and representing the company effectively.

Andrade is scheduled to defend the AEW National Championship against Tommaso Ciampa at AEW WrestleDream.