Alex Hammerstone asks for MLW release (Patreon)

Alex Hammerstone has asked for his release from MLW.

Fightful Select has learned that the relationship between Hammerstone, a fixture in MLW, and the company itself has become frayed. Hammerstone asked for his release, and we’re told as of now, MLW does not intend to grant it. Hammerstone’s deal with the company goes until the end of 2025. We’re told that Hammerstone hasn’t been told himself that the release was granted or denied.

We’re told that there had been communication between the two sides earlier this year and a buyout was brought up, and Hammerstone had said that he wanted to leave the company. From the company’s perspective, Hammerstone’s motivation decreased when he was booked to lose the world title to Alex Kane earlier this year.

As of this moment, Hammerstone is under contract to MLW, but noticeably was not featured on their most recent roster page update.

Hammerstone is on a monthly guarantee, which also adds pay per event. Sources in MLW claimed that there were some issues with their September event, when Hammerstone asked for the show off for a prior obligation. That was granted, and the money that would have been allocated to Hammerstone was used elsewhere. However MLW sources claimed that Hammerstone became available, but the budget wasn’t there to add him to the show.

MLW wants to retain Hammerstone, and we’re told MSL has been in contact with him. Hammerstone had indicated to MLW that he felt burned out there earlier this year, and from MLW’s perspective, they had built much of their company around him and wanted to keep their investment and a top star.

As of now, they’ve reached an impasse. Hammerstone hasn’t worked for the company since July and is not currently booked on any shows for the company.