I have heard the same rumors. The old AAWC forum messageboard had posts by Plotinus to that affect. Due to disagreements with two of the top leaders of the AAWC club about the new plans for the eWarZone, they resigned and one of them took down that board, and the club website. The player's stats were lost at that time also.
(you can read a bit about that in the Axis and Allies section)
Recently Plotinus's business has tanked due to the sub prime mess and he has been casting about for new income. to charge for the WZ, this would be breaking his promise to keep the WZ free.
We all have hopes that plotinus can find a business model for the WZ that would keep it free for most, but a for pay business for those who want more services.
red