Dana White signs up former WWE champion for Power Slap event with debut set for April 17

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He is the latest big star from another combat sport to step into Power Slap, following in the footsteps of former UFC star Paige VanZant. She is currently undefeated, and was due to fight for a title before being forced out with injury.

Jake Hager signs with Power Slap ahead of April 17 debut

Former WWE heavyweight champion and AEW star Jake Hager today told TMZ Sports that he is coming out of his combat retirement to sign with Dana White’s controversial Power Slap league. He said that he will have his first contest on April 17, and that he has inked a six-event deal.

“I’m so excited to announce that I’ve signed with UFC Power Slap,” Hager said, which is technically incorrect as the UFC and Power Slap are not directly tied together despite how White often packages them in.

“They are doing a show, April 17, in Vegas live. I’ll be competing in that show in the heavyweight division.” He also noted that he has “signed a six appearance contract with them” and that he hopes it’s long-term and more than a one-and-done deal.

The event will be part of WrestleMania weekend, which is another entity loosely tied to the UFC under the TKO umbrella. Hager joked that he “has been told that he has a very slappable face” and as such he expects a line around the corner.

Hager retired from professional wrestling in August of last year, two years after he confirmed that he wouldn’t be competing in MMA again. This new development is a return to action for the former ECW and WWE heavyweight champion, who also once held the Money In The Bank contract.

He has been running a trucking business since hanging up his boots, and has said that he enjoys being at home and being off the touring circuit.