WWE Signs Alberto Del Rio

Alberto El Patron (AKA Alberto Del Rio) is back with WWE, having signed a new contract with the organisation.

Ernesto Ocampo of Super Luchas reported today that El Patron and several other AAA talents have signed contracts with WWE. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has also reported that Del Rio has re-signed with WWE, and Cultaholic has been told by sources that Del Rio has indeed signed with WWE.

In addition to Del Rio, WWE have also signed El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr, El Hijo del Vikingo, La Parka, La Hiedra, Lady Flammer, Lady Maravilla, and Niño Hamburguesa, according to Ocampo.

The signing of Alberto El Patron and several other AAA talents comes after WWE announced the acquisition of AAA over WrestleMania 41 weekend. The acquisition will be completed this year. Del Rio is the reigning AAA Mega Champion.

Ocampo reported why WWE opted to sign the AAA talents, tweeting:

"Many fans, especially in the U.S., are assuming that by buying AAA, WWE is also acquiring the contracts. But aside from the fact that the sale hasn’t been finalized, those contracts are of no use to WWE, as WWE’s contracts are legally distinct and include multiple provisions and clauses - such as exclusivity, intellectual property rights, and termination conditions - that AAA’s do not address or enforce. That’s why new contracts are replacing the existing ones."

Del Rio signing with WWE doesn't necessarily mean he is going to appear on WWE television, however. Ocampo noted the AAA wrestlers with WWE deals will continue to perform for AAA. A few of them will work joint events with NXT, notably El Hijo del Vikingo, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr, La Parka, and Niño Hamburguesa.

Alberto Del Rio has previously had two stints in WWE between 2009 and 2016. He is a former WWE, World Heavyweight, and United States Champion. Del Rio is also a former Royal Rumble and Money in the Bank Ladder Match winner.

Del Rio has been a controversial figure amongst pro wrestling fans for several years. He was previously charged with aggravated kidnapping and four sexual assault charges in 2020, but the charges were later dismissed after a witness did not appear in court.

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