David Finlay Explains Why He Chose AEW Over WWE After Leaving New Japan
In a recent appearance on the “Talk is Jericho” podcast, professional wrestler David Finlay discussed his decision to leave New Japan Pro-Wrestling in March 2026 after an eleven-year tenure. Finlay revealed that he weighed offers from both All Elite Wrestling and WWE before committing to AEW. The competitor ultimately selected AEW because it granted him greater creative freedom and a more manageable schedule, while WWE wanted him to start in NXT rather than on the main roster.
Family Ties in Both Wrestling Promotions
Finlay faced a unique family dynamic when choosing his next career step, as relatives worked on both sides of the industry. His father, Fit Finlay, and his brother, Uriah Connors, were both situated in WWE NXT. Meanwhile, his former Bullet Club War Dogs stablemates, Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors, were performing in AEW. Finlay stated on the podcast that while having family in WWE was appealing, it ultimately did not dictate his final choice.
David Finlay has opened up about his decision to leave NJPW earlier this year, as well as why he chose a move to AEW over WWE. https://t.co/9jZFmkFcPb
Just the overall package of, like, obviously pay and schedule, but just like, ‘Alright, all my friends are in AEW. Then my brother and dad are in NXT, cool,’
Finlay said on the podcast. It didn’t have any bearing on it, like it would have been cool, but it’s like no, I want to go keep doing what I’m doing, have the freedom to do what I want to do and if I can be with my friends, that’s a great bonus.
Rejecting a Return to Developmental Status
Beyond schedule and creative freedom, Finlay pointed to his established career as a deciding factor against joining WWE. As a former two-time IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion who had wrestled at the Tokyo Dome eight times, he felt hesitant about resetting his career trajectory.
I think I would have struggled re-humbling myself to the level that they would have wanted me to humble myself to,
Finlay said on the program. It’s like I’ve already been here and I’ve already proven myself.
WWE’s insistence on placing him in NXT rather than rushing him to the main roster played a massive role in pushing him toward AEW, where he debuted on the March 4, 2026, episode of Dynamite alongside Clark Connors and Gabe Kidd.
Family Time Drives His Departure From Japan
The choice to leave New Japan Pro-Wrestling stemmed primarily from a desire to spend more time at home with his young child. After dedicating eleven years to working primarily in Japan, Finlay realized how much he missed during extended tours.
I had a kid,
Finlay said. My wife has been in the picture the entire time I’ve been in Japan so like we’re used to that, no problem. But when I leave for a G1, come back, and my kid’s got 20 new tricks, I’m like, ‘I’ve missed so much’ … if there’s an opportunity to be home more, I feel like I owe that to my family.
Finlay knew a full year in advance that he would leave NJPW. Despite knowing his departure was imminent, he chose to honor his mentor Gedo by giving the promotion his absolute best effort throughout his final year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did David Finlay make his AEW debut?
Finlay officially appeared as a mainstay on the March 4, 2026, episode of AEW Dynamite, aligning with his former Bullet Club War Dogs stablemates Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors.
What championships did David Finlay hold in New Japan Pro-Wrestling?
During his eleven years with NJPW, Finlay established himself as a prominent international heel and captured the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship twice.
Which family members work for WWE?
Finlay’s father, Fit Finlay, works for WWE as a trainer and producer, while his brother, Uriah Connors, performs on the WWE NXT roster.
Worth a look