AEW’s crowded roster could look very different over the next 18 months, but Tony Khan reportedly has little interest in carrying out a major round of releases.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Live, Bryan Alvarez claimed he has been given the impression that a significant number of AEW contracts will simply not be renewed when they reach their expiration dates. Rather than cutting talent early, Khan is reportedly prepared to allow deals to run their course.

Alvarez suggested Khan’s reluctance to release wrestlers plays a major part in that approach.

“Tony Khan doesn’t like to play the bad guy, so he doesn’t like to cut people. He just pays them to do nothing for months and months on end.”

As a result, some AEW talent could remain under contract despite rarely appearing on television, continuing to receive their salary until their deals officially expire.

“I’ve been given the impression that there are a lot of AEW contracts he’s not gonna cut, but they are just going to quietly expire, probably like a lot of people.”

While there may not be one dramatic wave of departures, Alvarez believes the situation could eventually create a sizeable group of free agents. He pointed to a timeframe of anywhere between six and 18 months.

“And there’s gonna come a time, maybe in six months, a year, or 18 months down the road, where there’s gonna be a lot of people available.”

If that happens, the wider wrestling industry could feel the effects. A sudden increase in established free agents could strengthen the independent scene or potentially attract interest from someone looking to launch or expand another promotion.

“Then either the indies are gonna blow up again, or someone’s gonna come along and see what they can do.”

For now, the expectation appears to be less about AEW announcing mass releases and more about a gradual roster reshuffle.