Don’t expect to see Toni Storm walk through WWE’s doors anytime soon—her “Timeless” persona may be too closely tied to AEW for WWE to take the plunge.
Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez were discussing the looming contract expiration dates for AEW talent during Wrestling Observer Radio and who WWE might actually try to sign. While names like Wardlow and Ricky Starks were mentioned as possible targets due to their look and upside, Meltzer drew a line when it came to Toni Storm.
According to Meltzer, WWE likely wouldn’t pursue Storm because they wouldn’t recreate her AEW gimmick. WWE has a long-standing track record of rebranding talent that comes from other promotions.
“WWE may not want to recreate her AEW gimmick. That’s not usually how they operate.”
Storm’s massive appeal in AEW right now is built entirely around her “Timeless” gimmick—an old-Hollywood persona that’s helped catapult her to the top of the women’s division. WWE, however, tends to avoid importing fully formed characters from rival promotions, meaning Storm would likely be stripped of the very act that makes her stand out. And even if WWE did want her, there’s a big money wall in the way.
“Tony Khan would likely outbid them anyway. She’s one of his top stars right now.”
At the end of the day, Storm may be too valuable to AEW and too gimmick-specific for WWE to justify the cost. The end result? A likely stay-put scenario for one of AEW’s most distinctive characters.
Do you think WWE is missing out by not trying to sign Toni Storm—or is she better off staying in AEW? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
