Former WWE, TNA and NJPW star Lance Archer (Lance Hoyt) has signed a multi-year contract with AEW.
AEW issued a press release and a tweet today to officially announce the signing.
“I’ve been in the business for almost half of my life, but with AEW, I’m setting my sights on the best chapter of my career so far,” Archer said in the release. “This company champions the creative, competitive and electrifying environment that I’ve been waiting for my whole career. No matter where I go—no matter who steps in front of me—I’m the one you should be afraid of at AEW.”
AEW President & CEO Tony Khan added, “Lance Archer is explosive, dynamic and unpredictable, making him perfect for AEW. He’s made his mark in every corner of the world. He’s brutal, colorful and will be a factor the minute he steps into the ring.”
It was reported back in late January that Archer was in “high-level talks” with AEW. The 43 year old finished up with NJPW earlier this month after being with them since 2017. He previously worked for TNA from 2004-2009, then for WWE from 2009-2010. He then went to NJPW until 2015, and left for a run with Pro Wrestling NOAH. He had been with NJPW since 2017, holding the IWGP United States Title once and the IWGP Tag Team Titles on three occasions. Archer had his best year with NJPW in 2019.
There’s no word yet on when Archer will debut with AEW, but we will keep you updated.
Below are AEW’s full announcements on the signing:
“The Murderhawk Monster” Lance Archer Joins All Elite Wrestling— AEW Signs Renowned Wrestler Archer to Multi-Year Deal —
February 26, 2020 – All Elite Wrestling today announced a multi-year deal with Lance Archer, a global professional wrestling sensation renowned for his brutal, powerhouse moves including the Blackout and EBD Claw.
Archer, a Texas native and former collegiate quarterback, is also known by his menacing monikers – “The Murderhawk Monster” and “The American Psychopath.” Standing at 6’8″ and weighing in at 260 pounds, Archer’s dominating stature and natural athletic prowess have defined his 20-year career.
“I’ve been in the business for almost half of my life, but with AEW, I’m setting my sights on the best chapter of my career so far,” said Lance Archer. “This company champions the creative, competitive and electrifying environment that I’ve been waiting for my whole career. No matter where I go—no matter who steps in front of me—I’m the one you should be afraid of at AEW.”
“Lance Archer is explosive, dynamic and unpredictable, making him perfect for AEW,” said Tony Khan, President and CEO of AEW. “He’s made his mark in every corner of the world. He’s brutal, colorful and will be a factor the minute he steps into the ring.”
Welcome to the team. #LanceArcher is #AllElite