One of AEW’s major stars took aim at Sheamus (real name Stephen Farrelly) following the news of the former World Champion leaving WWE.
Earlier today it was reported that Sheamus has turned down an extension from WWE and will be leaving the company when his contract expires, which is said to be very soon. The 48-year-old has been with WWE for 19 years, but has not wrestled since November due to a serious shoulder injury that required surgery.
Following news of Sheamus potentially leaving WWE, AEW star MJF revealed the future Hall of Famer’s name in a post on his Instagram Story. “Bring that smoke, O’Shaughnessy,” MJF wrote on Twitter (now X) in 2022, along with a screenshot of an exchange he had with Sheamus:
MJF is already calling out Sheamus pic.twitter.com/apCEIDRekQ
– Fightful Wrestling (@fightful) 5 July 2026
More information regarding Sheamus’ decision to turn down the new deal will be released soon. Making this development even more surprising? during an appearance on “Insights with Chris Van Vliet” last year (h/t struggling), Sheamus revealed that he has signed a five-year contract extension with WWE.
And now, Sheamus is on the verge of suddenly leaving after turning down a new contract offer. During his 19-year tenure in WWE, Sheamus won four world championships (three WWE, one World Heavyweight), three United States Championships, five tag team titles, and the 2012 Royal Rumble.
Let the Sheamus-AEW rumors begin
(Photo by Michael Marks/WWE via Getty Images)
Naturally, it’s easy for fans to guess that Sheamus is making the move to rival AEW promotion.
Sheamus’ former tag team partner, Cesaro (real name Claudio Castagnoli) left WWE for AEW in 2022. So, if Sheamus wants to go there he at least has a strong ally to support him.
Another important note? Sheamus will be free to sign with AEW or another promotion immediately, as the non-compete clause does not apply unless WWE completely waives him.
