Trey Miguel's whiplash AEW signing and release reportedly originated from a corporate level above Tony Khan, according to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Radio.
Miguel was released from his multi-year AEW contract just days after signing, ending his tenure before it officially began. The 31-year-old was notably absent when The Rascalz made their on-screen debut on January 17's Collision, despite being backstage with the group at the January 14 Dynamite taping.
What happened with Trey Miguel's AEW release?
Alvarez addressed the situation on WOR, stating that the decision came from outside AEW's internal structure.
"No one's really saying much. Well, some people are saying certain things, but my understanding is whatever it is, it came from up above," Alvarez said. "I know there's a lot of rumours but it had nothing to do with anybody in AEW talent, anything like that, or Tony. Something happened from way up and he was released."
The reference to a decision coming from "above" Tony Khan has sparked speculation about Warner Bros. Discovery's involvement, as WBD serves as AEW's broadcast partner through TBS, TNT, and HBO Max. AEW's current media rights deal runs through 2027 with an option extending to 2028.
A Timeline of Incidents Before His Abrupt AEW Exit
Trey Miguel's sudden release from AEW just days after signing has left fans searching for answers. While no official reason has been given for his departure, the 31-year-old carries a documented history of controversial statements that have followed him throughout his career.
The 2019 David Starr Incident
Miguel first drew significant backlash in July 2019 following a heated Twitter exchange with wrestler David Starr.
Wrestling podcasts at the time, including "Pod Van Dam," discussed the incident extensively, with hosts asking whether anyone had "taken Trey's phone away." Fan accounts characterized Miguel's comments as including offensive language, though the original tweets are no longer available.
The 2020 Facebook Controversy
The most well-documented incident occurred in March 2020 when Miguel engaged in a Facebook exchange using explicitly homophobic language. Screenshots captured Miguel writing that people "become gay out of fear of rejection from the opposite sex."
The following day, Miguel issued a public apology, stating he had made "very mean comments" to an LGBTQ community member that were "not right or tasteful." He acknowledged his wrongdoing, writing that "this world needs more love than hate."
Important Context
No credible reporting has linked Miguel's past controversies to his AEW release. Fightful confirmed he was released on amicable terms with no reason provided.
What's next for Trey Miguel?
Miguel announced he was "taking a break from wrestling" via Instagram on January 18, asking fans to respect his privacy while continuing to support The Rascalz.
The two-time TNA X-Division Champion spent over seven years with TNA before signing with AEW alongside Dezmond Xavier, Zachary Wentz, and Myron Reed. The Rascalz will continue as a trio, having already appeared in a backstage segment on Collision.
