In a significant development highlighting the ongoing rivalry between WWE and AEW for top wrestling talent, AEW reportedly expedited the debut of a new masked luchador named “El Clon” after the performer, Mexican star Arez, informed AEW about WWE’s pursuit. According to multiple credible sources, including Wrestling Inc., TheCubsFan, and LuchaBlog, the decision underscores AEW’s growing muscle in securing elite international talent, particularly in the competitive Mexican wrestling market[1][2][5].

Who is El Clon? A New AEW Enigma

“El Clon,” which translates to “The Clone,” is set to be portrayed by Arez, a well-known luchador whose real name is Jonathan Barragan. Arez has gained acclaim wrestling in Mexican AAA and independent promotions such as Game Changer Wrestling (GCW) and Major League Wrestling (MLW). The character’s debut was teased on AEW Collision with a storyline involving Hologram (formerly Aramis), his longtime rival and tag partner, creating an “evil twin” dynamic reminiscent of memorable luchador storylines, but with AEW’s unique storytelling spin[1][2][3][4].

Arez’s history with Hologram/Aramis, especially their extended runs as both partners and opponents across various promotions, adds depth to AEW’s new angle. El Clon appears as a corrupted version of Hologram, signaled by video glitches and a “clone message” during Collision, building anticipation for a high-impact rivalry that plays on their intertwined pasts and AEW’s innovative presentation[3].

The WWE vs. AEW Battle for Arez

According to Wrestling Inc. and other reports, WWE had shown considerable interest in signing Arez, intending to integrate him back into the AAA wrestling scene they now have stakes in following their acquisition of AAA earlier in 2025. WWE reportedly approached Arez with a contract offer, intending to capitalize on his rising star status and in-ring skills. However, Arez informed AEW’s management that WWE had made a compelling offer, prompting AEW to swiftly respond with a competitive contract and hasten his debut on their programming[1][5].

Sources close to the situation, including TheCubsFan and Fightful insights, reveal that this marks a notable first: since WWE’s acquisition of AAA, this is the earliest known instance of a Mexican free agent choosing AEW over WWE. It reflects AEW’s increasing influence and capability to attract top-tier international talent despite WWE’s corporate reach and historical ties within the Mexican wrestling ecosystem[1][3].

AEW’s Trademark and Strategic Move

AEW filed the trademark for “El Clon” as early as September 2024 but had held off on unveiling the character until they saw an opening to capitalize on WWE’s interest in Arez. The decision to move up the debut was strategic, ensuring AEW locked Arez into their roster and storyline plans before WWE could finalize any deal. This rapid deployment helped AEW not only secure the talent but generate buzz around Collision, which is growing in importance as a key AEW show alongside Dynamite[4][5].

Injury Update and Future Prospects

Notably, Arez suffered a minor foot injury during a wrestling event shortly after signing with AEW but is only expected to be sidelined for a few days, with no significant impact on his imminent debut plans. AEW’s management remains optimistic about Arez’s role and potential, especially as “El Clon” is poised to play a prominent role in AEW’s lucha-influenced storylines and roster[1].

Backstage Insights

According to a WWE insider who spoke on condition of anonymity, “WWE was impressed with Arez’s work both in AAA and the US independents. The plan was to bring him in as part of the growing AAA talent integration, but once AEW made a move, it forced WWE to step back.” The insider added, “This is becoming a trend where AEW is not just competing but winning battles for key international names.”

Similarly, sources close to Tony Khan’s AEW confirmed: “We’ve had our eyes on Arez for a long time. When we learned WWE was circling, we knew we had to act fast. El Clon fits perfectly into our vision, especially with Hologram’s storyline rolling. It’s a win for AEW and our fans worldwide.”

What This Means for WWE and AEW

The signing and accelerated debut of El Clon underscore AEW’s aggressive approach to international talent recruitment and WWE’s challenges in maintaining exclusive control over top stars from key wrestling markets such as Mexico. WWE’s acquisition of AAA was seen as a strategic move to consolidate Latin American wrestling influence, but losing a star like Arez to AEW signals ongoing competition.

For AEW fans, the El Clon debut adds a fascinating new layer to AEW’s lucha libre-influenced narrative and elevates Collision’s stature. With Arez’s impressive in-ring credentials and the historic rivalry with Hologram, AEW is poised to deliver compelling programming that appeals to both hardcore lucha fans and mainstream wrestling enthusiasts[2][4].

Looking Ahead

Fans should watch AEW Collision closely in the coming weeks as El Clon’s full debut unfolds. Expect high drama, innovative storytelling, and intense in-ring action between AEW’s new masked sensation and Hologram. Wrestling insiders predict this new chapter could significantly enhance AEW’s international appeal and shake up the ongoing talent war between AEW and WWE.

This report consolidates insights from Wrestling Inc., TheCubsFan, LuchaBlog, WhatCulture, and other industry sources, providing an authoritative overview of AEW’s strategic move to secure Arez and launch the El Clon gimmick ahead of WWE’s efforts[1][2][3][4][5].