Several names from WWE‘s main roster are interested in getting opportunities to compete in AAA. Corey Graves broke the news, saying he has direct knowledge that wrestlers on both RAW and SmackDown want it.
Speaking on the Mark Hoke Show, Graves explained that the partnership between the two companies has given wrestlers an alternative to WWE’s weekly grind. It’s a chance to work in a different environment.
“There are a lot of guys and girls on the main roster of Raw and SmackDown who are chomping at the bit.”
Graves added that those wrestlers specifically want the opportunity to compete in AAA. According to the commentator, the change of scenery has been valuable given WWE’s relentless schedule, and it also lets wrestlers try different styles.
One of the examples Graves cited was Dragon Lee. According to Graves, Lee hadn’t been getting the chances he wanted on RAW and SmackDown, but his performances in AAA made WWE reconsider how it was using him.
Graves said WWE officials have started discussing more exposure for Lee, including a possible entry into the Intercontinental Championship picture. That’s Graves’ assessment of WWE’s internal reaction, not an official announcement of creative plans.
Damian Priest was also mentioned as an example. Priest made his first appearance on AAA programming on July 4 and later challenged for the vacant AAA Latin American Championship at Ola de Calor on August 30. La Parka won the match, which also featured Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. and El Fiscal.