Updated

Updated · Fox News · Nov 14

Deonna Purrazzo Sees Steve Maclin Landing in AEW after TNA Exit, 1 Year into Free Agency

Updated

Updated · Fox News · Nov 14

Deonna Purrazzo Sees Steve Maclin Landing in AEW after TNA Exit, 1 Year into Free Agency

Q: After Adam Copeland dubbed him wrestling's most wanted free agent, what shocking move will Steve Maclin make next in 2026?

There is no confirmed “shocking move” yet, but the strongest evidence points to Steve Maclin moving into the AEW/ROH orbit in 2026. That reading is supported by several factors. Adam Copeland publicly labeled Maclin “the most wanted free agent,” elevating his profile after their well-received Maple Leaf Pro match. Maclin has also openly said he would “love the opportunity” to work AEW Dynamite, Collision, and Ring of Honor, citing dream matches there and existing ties through Deonna Purrazzo, Josh Alexander, and the Rascalz. Purrazzo has reinforced that path, saying Maclin’s hard-hitting style, intensity, and Marine background would fit AEW well, and even floating a possible ROH World Championship program with Bandido. That is the clearest concrete scenario anyone close to him has suggested publicly. At the same time, nothing official has been announced. Maclin is still active on the independent scene, and his post-TNA run has been about rebuilding momentum after leaving over creative frustrations. His recent appearances, including JTown Smackdown and Maple Leaf Pro, show he is keeping his options open rather than locking into one company immediately. So the most plausible next move is not a surprise return to TNA or a sudden WWE jump, but an AEW/ROH debut if the right creative opportunity emerges. If a headline-grabbing development happens next, a Bandido-linked ROH angle or a broader AEW introduction looks like the best-supported possibility.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Nov 14

Deonna Purrazzo said Steve Maclin has “a place” in AEW, arguing the top free agent could fit immediately in Ring of Honor and even challenge Bandido for the ROH world title.
Maclin’s next move has drawn attention since he left TNA at his peak, with Purrazzo saying he should choose the promotion where he is happiest and can contribute most.
1 standout performance against AEW star Adam Copeland at Maple Leaf Pro’s Northern Rising strengthened that case, even in defeat, by showing Maclin could hang with a top-level opponent.
For now, Maclin remains active on the independent scene, while Purrazzo framed his Marine Corps background as part of the intensity she believes would translate well to AEW.