Former WWE and AEW star Jake Hager, who announced his retirement from professional wrestling in August 2025, is now leaving the door open for a return to the ring. However, he's already ruled out at least one company.
Speaking on TMZ's Inside The Ring, Hager said his body has recovered significantly since he stepped away. He said:
When I retired, my body was banged up pretty badly. My shoulders were hanging on by a thread. Everything's a lot better now and healthier — it's amazing what a little time off creates. I wouldn't rule out me wrestling again. I think I'd like to get back in there, actually.
One Company He Won't Call
Despite the renewed optimism about his physical condition, Hager drew a clear line when it came to AEW. When asked which promotions he might consider, he stated flatly:
"There [is] one company that I wouldn't be asking [to work for]."
The context of the conversation made clear he was referring to All Elite Wrestling.
It's not the first time Hager has aired grievances about the company. He previously slammed Tony Khan's leadership and said he regretted his AEW run, and told Sportskeeda he didn't think WWE liked him very much either. The combination left his future in wrestling uncertain — until now.
Hager spent five years in AEW as a founding member of the Inner Circle alongside Chris Jericho before departing in 2024. He was candid that the AEW chapter holds mixed memories.
It's hard to look at my time at AEW and be mad at it because I got to work with Chris," he acknowledged, but his exit was acrimonious.
With his Power Slap career now kicking off and his body healthier than it's been in years, a wrestling return may be closer than previously thought — just not in Jacksonville.
