Steve Carrier on June 27, 2024
AEW President Tony Khan spoke with the pro wrestling media on Thursday, June 27, 2024, to promote Sunday’s AEW Forbidden Door pay-per-view. Below are the highlights from the call.
Tony Khan began by expressing that this is one of his favorite times of the year. He discussed the involvement of NJPW, CMLL, and Stardom before opening the floor for questions.
The first caller mentioned Jeff Jarrett’s promo from AEW Collision and his participation in the Owen Hart Cup tournament. Khan praised Jarrett’s business acumen, calling him a legendary pro wrestler recognized worldwide.
Tony Khan commented on MJF’s return and participation in the Forbidden Door show, expressing enthusiasm about having MJF back and looking forward to his match against Hechicero, whom Khan considers one of his favorites.
Regarding the possibility of taking Forbidden Door international with a show in Japan, Khan acknowledged it as a compelling idea. He highlighted the event’s history, noting the potential for achieving a $1 million gate on Sunday, marking three consecutive years of surpassing that milestone. Khan also discussed the prospect of future pay-per-views in Japan, potentially in collaboration with NJPW.
When asked about his most anticipated match at Forbidden Door, Khan responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the difficulty in choosing just one. He emphasized the excitement surrounding Swerve Strickland vs. Will Ospreay for the AEW World Championship. Khan also mentioned his anticipation for Toni Storm vs. Mina Shirakawa for the AEW Women’s Championship, Jon Moxley vs. Tetsuya Naito for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, and the title vs. title match between Mercedes Mone and Stephanie Vaquer.
When asked about the decision to feature Mark Briscoe vs. Kyle Fletcher for the ROH World Championship before Death Before Dishonor, Tony Khan explained that both wrestlers have busy schedules with bookings worldwide. He emphasized his commitment to delivering excellent matches for HonorClub subscribers and the wider fan base.
Regarding Britt Baker, Khan expressed happiness about her imminent return and mentioned his anticipation for Jamie Hayter and Kenny Omega coming back as well.
In response to inquiries about future collaborations with Stardom, Khan enthusiastically affirmed their plans. He expressed a strong desire to regularly showcase Stardom talent in AEW and discussed the potential for wrestlers from AEW to compete in Stardom after obtaining visas. Khan also speculated on the possibility of Stardom’s Mina Shirakawa capturing the AEW Women’s Championship.
When asked about MJF’s character shift and his involvement in shaping it, Tony Khan explained that wrestlers vary in their input levels, some bringing many ideas while others prefer guidance from the office. Khan mentioned spending considerable time brainstorming and collaborating with his team. He expressed admiration for MJF’s authenticity and enjoyment in their communications.
Regarding talent exchanges between AEW and CMLL’s women’s divisions, Khan indicated optimism, noting ongoing efforts to facilitate visas for AEW wrestlers to compete in promotions like Stardom and CMLL. He highlighted the logistical ease of travel between AEW and CMLL, expressing fondness for their collaboration.
Responding to another question, Khan expressed satisfaction in featuring four women’s matches on the Forbidden Door lineup.
Looking ahead to the summer series of shows in Dallas, Khan conveyed excitement about bringing significant matches to the city. He mentioned the enthusiastic reception from Arlington and emphasized Dallas’ status as a premier wrestling hub. Khan also shared a personal reflection on Arlington, recalling it as the last place he saw the late Jay Briscoe.
When asked about Jim Ross’s status for Forbidden Door, Tony Khan expressed his ongoing communication with Ross and expressed a desire to welcome him back when his health permits, noting recent health challenges Ross has faced.
Regarding the collaboration between NXT and TNA and its relation to Forbidden Door, Khan shared his satisfaction with seeing companies work together, highlighting his appreciation for healthy competition in the wrestling industry.
Addressing questions about Dijak and Becky Lynch, Khan declined to discuss contract negotiations in the media but emphasized the exciting developments in pro wrestling. He reflected on AEW’s launch and the revitalization of free agency in the industry, expressing respect for the mentioned names and enthusiasm for recent signings like Kazuchika Okada, Will Ospreay, Mercedes Mone, and Adam Copeland. Khan fondly remembered Copeland’s impact and influence.
In closing, Khan remarked on the significant year ahead for AEW, particularly with their upcoming media rights renewal. He likened the company’s current position to being in the red zone and aiming for a touchdown, expressing optimism about the future.
June 27, 2024 12:37 pm
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