Andrew Ravens
Some intriguing Friday posts on X add fuel to the speculation that a certain AEW veteran could be inside the mystery box that is set to be opened on Saturday at the Elimination Chamber.
There has been a lot of speculation about what is in the box that has been on RAW and Smackdown over the last two weeks. The popular pick among fans is AEW alum Danhausen. A man who reportedly was set to be a free agent in the coming months. Well, some posts from him today may suggest he is free of the All Elite shackles. Both can be found below.
While his original deal was slated to expire in July 2025, the promotion reportedly added injury time due to a torn pectoral muscle sustained in 2023, extending the agreement into February 2026. According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, the extension was enacted against Danhausen’s wishes, as he had requested that the company not pick up his injury-time option.
Danhausen hasn’t appeared on AEW or ROH television throughout 2025, with his last televised appearance occurring at ROH Final Battle in late 2024. Despite being under contract, he has remained active on the independent scene, fueling rumors that his relationship with AEW management has been strained.
The “freedom” themed tweets have immediately been linked to a major ongoing storyline in WWE. For weeks, an unmarked wooden crate has been traveling between Raw and SmackDown, with general managers Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis under strict instructions not to open the box until February 28—the date of Elimination Chamber in Chicago.
Due to Danhausen’s real-life friendship with CM Punk and his merchandise appeal, he has emerged as a betting favorite to be the individual inside the box. According to WrestleVotes Radio, WWE officials have discussed internally adding Danhausen to the NXT brand, where his character-driven style is expected to thrive.
Mike Johnson of PWInsider confirmed that AEW has not factored Danhausen into creative plans for months, effectively clearing the way for his exit. There has been no indication that Jericho’s AEW status has changed, as he remains on the roster page.
