Tony Khan May Have Embellished AEW’s Current Television Talks Progress With WBD

Pro wrestling companies need strong television deals to be competitive in the market. AEW and Warner Bros Discovery are currently negotiating their next contract, but Tony Khan’s perception of these talks may not match reality.

During a media call to promote Forbidden Door, Tony Khan, without being prompted, described the media rights negotiations as being “in the red zone,” close to scoring a wrapping up a deal. He also expressed gratitude for the support over the past five years, which he said has helped them get to this point.

There are expectations that the deal would be announced imminently, possibly before the exclusive negotiation window expires. However, reports from various sources provide contradictory information about the talks. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly shape AEW’s future.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted, “we’ve gotten people who say they know from all over saying completely contradictory things about the talks.” This suggests that Khan might not be as close to securing a deal with WBD as he suggests.

Khan has previously hinted that the news would be positive and transformative. Meanwhile, his rivals have spread word that the reality is quite the opposite. This situation coincided with a significant drop in Wednesday ratings during the second quarter, a critical time as the final details of the deal are being arranged. This timing is not a prediction but an observation, considering WBD’s own financial issues.

It remains to be seen what kind of television deal AEW will secure. Their last pay-per-view, Double or Nothing, was barely profitable, and the company is spending heavily on talent. AEW will need a strong agreement with WBD, potentially including streaming on the MAX platform, to regain momentum.

What are your thoughts on AEW’s next television deal? Where do you think they’ll end up? Let us know in the comments section!