Santos Escobar’s Next Move After His WWE Release Is Starting to Come Into Focus

Santos Escobar’s path following his WWE release is beginning to take shape — and according to Fightful Select, CMLL is expected to resume conversations with him after the two sides had been in discussions before WWE made him a “great offer” to re-sign last year. Those talks were paused when Escobar re-signed, but his release on April 24 has reopened the door.

Escobar became a free agent last year when his contract expired before negotiations with WWE resumed and the company retained him. However his usage declined significantly — he was backstage at least once for a main roster event but was primarily used through AAA. Following his appearance at AAA Rey de Reyes 2026, Escobar revealed he had undergone triceps surgery. WWE expects him to be recovered by the time his 90-day non-compete clause expires, though Fightful Select confirmed that despite initial communication suggesting otherwise, Escobar will not be permitted to use the WWE Performance Center to rehabilitate his injury.

Fightful also noted that at the time of his original free agency last year, sources close to the situation indicated CMLL had expected Escobar to join their promotion and possibly make appearances for AEW before WWE intervened with the improved offer. With that deal now concluded, both CMLL and the broader lucha libre landscape represent natural landing spots for one of the most recognizable Mexican wrestling stars in the industry.