WWE Offers Former AEW Star Tryout for Unique Role

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Fernando Quiles Jr. | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 11:34 AM ET

WWE might have a distinctive role for one former AEW roster member.

In recent months, WWE has signed several stars who made their mark on AEW TV. Penta has emerged as a popular "Monday Night Raw" talent, while Ricky Saints is a former "NXT" North American Champion. Blake Monroe, formerly known as Mariah May, appears to be on a fast track to the "NXT" Women's Championship.

All of the former AEW stars mentioned were brought in for their in-ring work and marketability, but one name could be donning referee attire. Fightful reports that WWE has expressed interest in giving Leyla Hirsch a referee tryout. It's been said that both sides communicated in mid-June, but it's unknown if the tryout proposal was accepted.

Hirsch has performed in several matches since departing from AEW and ROH. Her most recent match took place at Beyond "Blacktop Bloodbath" on June 21. She took on TJ Crawford in a losing effort. Hirsch has also performed in matches with the likes of Japanese star Miyu Yamashita and TNA Wrestling talent Jody Threat.

Hirsch has experience working for several wrestling promotions. Outside of her time in AEW and ROH, she performed for the all-women's Stardom promotion in Japan.

Whether or not Hirsch is willing to trade in her boots for the in-ring official uniform remains to be seen. One of WWE's top referees, Jessika Carr, recently revived her career as a wrestler, appearing as Kalyx on the "Evolve" brand. Whether or not Hirsch can do something similar remains to be seen.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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