Tony Khan Says Vaccination Is Not Mandatory In AEW

The COVID-19 pandemic took over the entire world last year and that included the pro wrestling business, which was severely affected by the pandemic. Several pro wrestlers tested positive for the virus and it resulted in numerous shows being cancelled as well.

Even AEW had its fair share of positive COVID-19 tests last year but with the availability of vaccines, the situation is under control for the most part.

While speaking to Bloomberg Business of Sports, AEW President Tony Khan was asked whether the company has made vaccination mandatory. Khan stated that while vaccination isn’t mandatory, it is heavily encouraged and added that most of the roster is already vaccinated.

“Most of the roster has gotten (vaccinated) and we have encouraged people to do so. I haven’t put in mandatory, but I’ve also strongly encouraged and put in protocols to encourage everyone to do so because it’s much easier for the vaccinated folks to get through the day and interact outside of the ring. They just have to go through less rigorous procedures and testing. We’ve definitely encouraged everyone to do it. Most of our people are.

Advertising

Advertising

We have created a great backstage environment where people want to spend time together. We’ve also put in thorough testing protocols. Not being a part of the most rigorous levels of testing and also having the ability to go out and do what you want and live your life like we did before without these protocols makes it much more savory and encouraging for the vaccinated.”

AEW continued to test their talents all throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as they ran shows out of Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida. We will have to wait and see if the entire roster will be vaccinated soon or not.

h/t to Fightful for the quotes.

What’s your take on this story? Sound off in the comments!