Cesaro has left WWE this evening after failing to agree terms on a new deal with the company. He had been in negotiations with WWE for a new deal, which Cesaro apparently rejected.
WWE wanted to keep the Swiss Superman, offering him a one-year extension on his current deal. WWE had plans to book Cesaro for their upcoming shows, but had no long term storyline plans for him on the run up to Wrestlemania or beyond.
Since beating Seth Rollins at Wrestlemania last year, Cesaro has featured in minimal storylines and has largely been forgotten by WWE. He did not take part in the 2022 Royal Rumble, which may have been the nail in the coffin in regards to deciding no to re-sign for WWE.
Fightful Select claims “The immediate reaction from those within the company was disappointment and dismay, as Cesaro has been one of the most universally liked talent on the roster. We’re told this was not a case of WWE not wanting him there. In fact, he was offered a new contract, in which WWE sources claim was rejected.”
“One source indicated this wasn’t the first time this had happened, as they recalled contract negotiations just last year that caused Cesaro to be pulled from a top contender gauntlet match because he hadn’t signed. “
They also noted that Cesaro does not have a 90 day release clause in his contract, and is free to sign with anyone immediately. It is unknown if he will sign for AEW, or another American company, or move back to Europe or even to Japan for New Japan Pro Wrestling.