Why did the Edge Leave the WWE?

By Ali Hammad April 03, 2024 13:46

Photo by Getty Images

Adam Copeland, widely known as Edge, made a surprising move in his wrestling career when he left WWE, where he had a successful 25-year career, and joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

His departure from WWE was not on sour terms, and he provided insightful reasons for his decision. Let's delve deeper into the factors that led to Edge's departure from WWE and his subsequent move to AEW.

Reasons Behind Edge's Departure from WWE

Relationship with WWE

Edge expressed that his relationship with WWE had "outgrown" itself, and he felt that there weren't many opportunities left for him within the company.
He highlighted that he wanted to do more, but the company didn't have much left for him to do, ultimately leading him to seek new challenges elsewhere.
According to Edge, WWE and he had grown apart over time, and the company didn't have much more for him to do, which influenced his decision to move to AEW.

Limited Dates and Storytelling Opportunities

WWE wanted Edge to work limited dates, which would have restricted his ability to fully explore and develop storylines.
Edge expressed that working on a limited schedule would hinder his ability to craft compelling stories and make the most of his remaining time in his wrestling career.

AEW's Full-Time Schedule

AEW's contract offer allowed Edge to work on a full-time schedule, providing him with the opportunity to tell more stories on a regular basis, which aligned with his desire to continue crafting engaging narratives in the wrestling ring.

Edge's Final WWE Match

Edge's final WWE match took place in August 2023 against his close friend Sheamus during the main event of Friday Night SmackDown. The Rated-R Superstar emerged victorious following a spear to The Celtic Warrior.

Edge's Remarkable Career at WWE

WWE Championship Reigns

Throughout his 25-year stint with WWE, Edge held the WWE Championship an impressive 31 times, solidifying his status as a top performer in the company.

Retirement and Triumphant Return

Edge retired in 2011 due to a neck injury but made a triumphant return to wrestling in 2019 at the Royal Rumble, which he won for the third time in his career.

Memorable Matches and Hall of Fame Induction

Upon his return, Edge engaged in memorable matches against notable opponents such as Seth Rollins, Randy Orton, AJ Styles, Damien Priest, and Finn Balor.
In 2012, Edge was rightfully inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, acknowledging his significant contributions to the wrestling industry.

Edge's Move to AEW

AEW Debut and New Challenges

Edge made his AEW debut at the WrestleDream pay-per-view event, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his wrestling career.
He expressed excitement about working with a whole new roster, including familiar faces, and engaging in first-time matches, emphasizing his continuous drive for new challenges.

Industry Perspective and Fans' Reaction

Edge dismissed the tribal atmosphere between WWE and AEW, urging fans to embrace his latest adventure and emphasizing that more choices in the wrestling industry benefit everyone and push performers to excel.

Future Prospects at AEW

With his move to AEW, fans can look forward to seeing Edge compete in this new environment, where he aims to continue showcasing his talent and creating compelling storylines.

Edge's departure from WWE and subsequent move to AEW was influenced by various factors, including his desire for more creative freedom and storytelling opportunities.

Despite bidding farewell to WWE after a remarkable career, Edge's move to AEW opens up exciting possibilities for his future in professional wrestling. Farewell, Rated R Superstar.