Jesse Guilmette Reflects on AEW Tenure Following Contract Departure
Jesse Guilmette, professionally known as The Blade, has confirmed his departure from All Elite Wrestling (AEW) following the expiration of his contract. Guilmette, who spent six years with the promotion, recently discussed his transition and professional legacy on the Talk’n Shop podcast, highlighting his contributions to the company’s tag-team division and his early involvement in the promotion’s foundation.
Why Did The Blade Leave AEW?
Guilmette’s departure follows the conclusion of his multi-year agreement with the organization. According to his comments on Talk’n Shop, the split was a standard expiration of terms rather than a release or a dispute. Guilmette noted that he is currently exploring his options within the professional wrestling industry, emphasizing that his time with AEW provided a platform to showcase his technical style alongside his long-time tag-team partner, The Butcher (Andy Williams).
What Were The Blade’s Most Memorable Moments in AEW?
Throughout his six-year run, which began with his debut at the 2019 AEW Dynamite premiere in Washington, D.C., Guilmette participated in several high-profile programs. He cited his early work as a “hired gun” for MJF as a career highlight, which established him and Williams as a legitimate threat in the tag-team division.
Beyond his association with MJF, Guilmette pointed to the brutal nature of his matches, specifically those involving tables and weapons, as defining moments. His tenure was characterized by a “brawler” persona that filled a specific role during the company’s expansion years. While he did not secure a major championship, his work alongside Butcher and The Bunny remained a consistent fixture of the mid-card landscape between 2020 and 2023.
How Does His Departure Impact the Tag-Team Division?
The departure of The Blade marks another shift in the composition of the AEW roster, which has seen several veteran departures throughout 2024. Unlike earlier mass releases in other promotions, AEW has largely managed roster changes through non-renewals as contracts reach their end dates.
The following table outlines the trajectory of Guilmette’s AEW career:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| AEW Debut | October 2019 |
| Notable Alliance | MJF (2019) |
| Contract Conclusion | 2024 |
What Comes Next for Jesse Guilmette?
Guilmette has indicated a desire to continue his professional wrestling career on the independent circuit. He stated during his podcast appearance that he remains open to various opportunities, including potential bookings in international markets or independent promotions that prioritize the physical, aggressive style he cultivated in AEW.
His transition out of the national spotlight reflects a broader trend among veteran performers who leverage their television exposure to transition into independent wrestling, where they often command higher booking fees and greater creative control over their schedules. As of this writing, Guilmette has not announced any exclusive signing with another major promotion.