Former World Champion Working For WWE Without A Contract

Written by Animesh Murai • Published Sep 14, 2025 22:42 EDT
WWE Women's Champion Tiffany Stratton

A former world champion is surprisingly working for WWE without a contract.

WWE Hall of Famer John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield shocked fans when he made surprise appearances at several wrestling promotions over recent months. The former World Champion appeared at AAA Triplemania, TNA Emergence, GCW Homecoming, and MLW events. These appearances sparked major questions about his contract status with the company.

JBL addressed contract speculation during interviews, stating the rumors were completely wrong. He told wrestling media that he has never answered questions about his contract due to confidentiality clauses. The wrestling legend said he refuses to discuss contract details because the Stamford-based promotion has always included confidentiality terms in its agreements.

The 57-year-old wrestler made it clear that online speculation about his WWE status has been incorrect. He emphasized his loyalty to the company, saying he has been a lifelong company supporter. JBL noted that WWE gave him his big break and that everything he has comes from his time with the company.

In a recent episode of Something to Wrestle with Bruce Prichard, JBL revealed details about his contract. He said that he does not work for WWE, meaning he does not have a contract with them.

Absolutely not. Nope. No. Do not work for them.

I have a wonderful relationship that I’m very happy with, and I don’t do anything that surprises them. I have a great relationship. If I’m gonna do something, sometimes I will give them a heads up that I’m gonna do something, just out of common respect and courtesy.

I love those guys, and I love the company, I’ve been there 30-something years, I’m not gonna do anything to harm that company. But no – people accuse me of being a shill for them, working for them, that’s not true.

I am doing some stuff with them and I’m glad when they call. I always answer the phone, and if I can do it, I’ll always be there for them.”

When he works other shows, Layfield goes by “John Layfield” instead of his WWE name. He can’t use JBL or Bradshaw because the company owns those names. His clothes and look are different, too.

What Type of WWE Deal Allows JBL to Appear on Other Promotions?

Layfield has a WWE Legends Deal, which lets the company book him while he can work other places, too. He can do indie shows as long as he doesn’t use WWE characters or names.

The Legends Deal explains how JBL can work different promotions without breaking his WWE deal. Other Hall of Famers have similar deals that let them do indie dates. These contracts usually cover merchandise, video games, and some WWE appearances.

JBL’s recent shows suggest he wants to stay busy in wrestling while keeping his ties with the company. The former champion talked about having big plans for 2025, but has yet to reveal what they are. His indie work lets him wrestle without being tied down to WWE full-time. JBL recently joined commentary duties on Worlds Collide, along with Corey Graves and another wrestling legend. Find out who it was.