Recently Fired TNA Talent Takes On Backstage AEW Role Without Contract

:aew:

Sami Callihan’s next chapter in professional wrestling may already be underway, but not in the way many fans expected.

Just weeks after his departure from TNA Wrestling, a new report suggests the former TNA World Champion has quietly been working behind the scenes at recent AEW events, although his long-term status remains uncertain.

Rather than returning to the spotlight as an in-ring performer, Callihan appears to be making an impact where fans rarely see it.

According to a report from BodySlam.net, Callihan has worked backstage at AEW Dynamite tapings over the last three weeks. These included the Beach Break edition in Clearwater, Florida, followed by events in Roanoke, Virginia, and Boston, Massachusetts. He was also reportedly scheduled to be backstage for the AEW Collision tapings in Boston.

The report states that Callihan has primarily been serving as a backstage producer. However, despite his recent involvement, BodySlam noted that he has not officially signed with AEW.

When the outlet asked about his contract status, sources reportedly responded, “It doesn’t seem like he has a contract yet.”

The reported role comes shortly after Callihan’s release from TNA Wrestling. Before his departure, he had taken on several responsibilities beyond wrestling. These included producing matches, working as an agent, assisting the merchandise and marketing departments, and helping oversee pre-taped content. It seems Callihan has traded one headset for another, even if the contract paperwork hasn’t been pinned down just yet.

Reports surrounding his TNA exit also indicated that Callihan believed he was heading into discussions about a larger creative position before ultimately being informed that he was leaving the company.

Callihan stepped away from in-ring competition last year after losing to Mike Santana in a Street Fight at TNA Emergence. Since then, his focus has shifted toward backstage production and creative work.

While there’s no confirmation that his current AEW role will become permanent, the reported backstage appearances suggest the company is already evaluating what he can bring behind the curtain. Whether this develops into a full-time opportunity remains to be seen, but for now, Callihan appears to have landed on his feet.