The Nature Boy Ric Flair may have his next career move in hand after parting ways with WWE according to a new report.
Wrestling Inc. first reported on August 2nd that Flair had ended his long association with WWE after requesting his release from the company. The release was then granted by the company and WWE made a short statement the following day confirming the sixteen-time champion of the world’s departure.
According to Fightful Select, Flair had grown frustrated with certain booking decisions and contacted Vince McMahon directly to express his concerns and ask for his release. There’s no specific news as of yet as to which decisions contributed to Flair’s frustrations, however, the legendary wrestler had previously expressed his discomfort at the storyline where he portrayed Lacey Evans’ partner.
Flair then released his own statement explaining that he isn’t upset with WWE, adding that they had different visions for his future. You can read the full statement below.
“I Am Officially Able To Respond To All The Press Related To My Requested Release From WWE, Which They Have Given Me. I Want To Make It Really Clear With Everyone That I’m Not Upset With WWE At All. They Solely Are Responsible For Putting Me In The Position Of Life That I’m In Right Now, Where I’m Seen In The Brightest Light Ever. We Have A Different Vision For My Future. I Wish Them Nothing But Continued Success! Thank You For Everything! Nothing But Respect!”
Now Dave Meltzer in his latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter has suggested that Ric Flair is seemingly headed to the land of All Elite:
“While nothing has been announced, the word going around is that it seems to be a lock Ric Flair will be headed here when he is legally able.”
Ric Flair is likely beholden to a ninety-day non-compete clause which is standard procedure when talent leaves WWE while still under contract. Flair’s future son-in-law Andrade El Idolo is a relatively new addition to the AEW roster and the Mexican star has recently commented that he wants the “whole family” in the company.
While Flair looks likely to be heading to AEW, at Inside The Ropes we looked at some other options The Nature Boy might be considering.