Tony Khan Makes Shady Remark Referencing WWE’s Latest Firing Spree

WWE and UFC’s merger into the TKO company was an exciting time for Wall Street. Then WWE followed that up by firing over 100 employees. A week after that, they axed a number of wrestlers from their payroll as well. Tony Khan was paying attention to that.

Click here for our comprehensive list of people that WWE fired since the TKO merger.

Tony Khan took part in a media call to promote AEW WrestleDream. During that call, he was asked a very interesting question about FOX potentially becoming a bidder for AEW’s television rights deal. After all, FOX is losing WWE SmackDown as the blue brand signed a big five-year contract with the USA Network.

Regarding whether Tony Khan envisions FOX as a possible bidder for AEW, he refrained from offering a comment. He emphasized his partnership with Warner Bros Discovery and the importance of loyalty within a family business.

Tony Khan then stressed his commitment to safeguarding his staff, even in the face of challenges, and expressed his adherence to the principles instilled in him while growing up. Although the business aspect is considered, their current association with WBD extends until the end of 2024.

While acknowledging the potential interest of multiple bidders, he preferred not to speculate, emphasizing his loyalty to WBD. Khan acknowledged FOX as a strong platform for sports and wrestling but expressed his desire to maintain AEW’s affiliation with WBD indefinitely. He even indicated a willingness to accept a slightly lower offer to remain with WBD, appreciating all they have contributed to AEW.

Then Tony Khan took a little bit of a shady shot as he said that he would protect his employees if any sort of deal took place. Khan said that even if he gets “punched in the face,” he’s not going to “take it out on the staff by cutting 100 people and then cut wrestlers.”

That little quip about firing so many employees was an obvious nod to WWE’s recent firing spree. That being said, it’s not a good idea to expect AEW to partake in any similar business activities in the near future.

What’s your take on Tony Khan’s little shot at WWE firing so many people? Sound off in the comments to let us know what you think!