WWE and AEW Eye Free Agent Colby Corino: What's Next for the Injured Wrestler?

Colby Corino, a second-generation wrestler, has captured the attention of both major wrestling organizations as he explores new opportunities.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:28pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a wrestling match, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in bold, vibrant colors representing the competitive spirit and uncertainty surrounding Colby Corino's future.As Colby Corino weighs his options between WWE and AEW, his recovery from a career-threatening injury adds an extra layer of drama to his free agency journey.Today in Tulsa

Colby Corino, a 29-year-old wrestler, has officially entered free agency after his contract with the NWA expired on January 1, 2026. Both WWE and AEW have expressed interest in signing Corino, who is the son of former ECW champion Steve Corino. However, Corino is currently recovering from a serious neck and spine injury that required emergency surgery in August 2025, leaving his wrestling future uncertain.

Why it matters

Corino's entry into free agency comes at a pivotal moment in his career, as he weighs offers from the two biggest wrestling promotions while also recovering from a major injury. His background as a second-generation wrestler and previous interest from WWE add an intriguing layer to his decision-making process.

The details

Colby Corino has been a prominent figure in the NWA since 2019, where he held the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship. He has also made regular appearances for various independent promotions, including JCW, Appalachian Mountain Wrestling, and DEADLOCK Pro Wrestling. In August 2025, Corino suffered a serious injury that required emergency surgery on his neck and spine, putting his wrestling future in jeopardy. Despite this setback, both WWE and AEW have expressed interest in signing Corino as a free agent.

  • Colby Corino's contract with the NWA expired on January 1, 2026.
  • In August 2025, Corino underwent emergency surgery on his neck and spine due to a serious injury.
  • In 2023, WWE and Corino had reached a verbal agreement for him to join their roster, but the deal fell apart due to concerns over his background check.

The players

Colby Corino

A 29-year-old wrestler who has been a prominent figure in the NWA since 2019, where he held the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship. He is the son of former ECW champion Steve Corino.

Steve Corino

Colby Corino's father, who is a former ECW World Heavyweight Champion and currently serves as a trainer and producer for WWE NXT.

WWE

One of the major wrestling organizations that has expressed interest in signing Colby Corino as a free agent.

AEW

One of the major wrestling organizations that has expressed interest in signing Colby Corino as a free agent.

NWA

The wrestling promotion that Colby Corino was previously contracted with, and with whom he is reportedly still in discussions for a potential new agreement.

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What they’re saying

“I went to the hospital on Thursday night and was told I needed emergency surgery on my neck and back... I don't know if I'll be in a wrestling ring anytime soon.”

— Colby Corino

“The bridge is not burned and the door is not closed.”

— Colby Corino

What’s next

Colby Corino is currently in discussions with the NWA about a potential new agreement, while also exploring opportunities with WWE and AEW. His recovery from the neck and spine injury will be a key factor in determining his next steps.

The takeaway

Colby Corino's entry into free agency comes at a pivotal moment in his career, as he navigates offers from the two biggest wrestling promotions while also recovering from a serious injury. His background as a second-generation wrestler and previous interest from WWE add an intriguing layer to his decision-making process, making his next move a highly anticipated development in the wrestling world.