Steve Carrier on July 25, 2024
AEW President Tony Khan spoke with the pro wrestling media on Thursday, July 25, 2024, to promote Friday’s ROH Death Before Dishonor event.
The first question addressed the possibility of ROH holding residencies for future tapings. Khan called it an interesting question and highlighted their current work in Arlington, Texas.
When asked about the use of chair shots to the head in pro wrestling, specifically referencing the previous night’s Blood & Guts match, Tony Khan refrained from discussing the technical aspects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining some mystery in pro wrestling. He assured that everyone involved in the Blood & Guts match was relatively healthy and noted that practices in wrestling have evolved over the past 25 years.
Khan was asked about his relationship with Kevin Von Erich. He spoke positively about working with Kevin, as well as Ross and Marshall.
Stephanie Chase inquired if ROH is part of the ongoing negotiations for AEW’s media rights. Khan confirmed that ROH has been mentioned in his discussions with Warner Bros. Discovery. He expressed enthusiasm about the conversations, which he described as “happening right now.” Khan explained that it’s an active discussion and that ROH is an integral part of the larger AEW discussions.
Khan was questioned about additional matches for ROH Death Before Dishonor and the pre-show, and why they haven’t been announced yet. He explained that six matches have been announced so far, mentioning that injuries to Jay White and Dalton Castle have affected the card. Khan praised Castle and pointed out that other companies wouldn’t face criticism for advertising only six matches for a show. He humorously noted that he might be criticized even for something as minor as sneezing. Khan confirmed that more matches would be added to the lineup and that he needed to consider who might be banged up and able to wrestle after the Royal Rampage match.
When asked about Mark Briscoe’s tenure as ROH Champion, Khan enthusiastically praised Mark for being a formidable ROH Champion and tag team champion, highlighting his participation in ROH from its inception. He noted Mark’s presence at the first ROH show, although too young then to compete, and expressed his excitement about Mark’s upcoming match with Roderick Strong at Death Before Dishonor.
In response to a question about his favorite ROH matches since acquiring the company, Khan was quick to commend the FTR vs. Briscoes matches but acknowledged he couldn’t fill every slot with them. He praised Athena for her string of impressive matches, particularly her pay-per-view battle with Willow Nightingale and another standout match on their weekly streaming show. Khan also highlighted The Kingdom vs. Top Flight and mentioned Chris Jericho vs. Claudio Castagnoli on Dynamite, as well as Castagnoli’s match against Eddie Kingston.
Discussing the policy on vacating titles due to injuries, Khan shared insights on managing injured wrestlers like Wheeler Yuta, whose concussion issues were prolonged. He touched on the difficult decisions around whether to hold titles until the wrestler recovers or to vacate them.
When asked if he’s scouting free agents specifically for ROH or just for AEW, Khan clarified that they have been hiring wrestlers for both promotions. He highlighted the logistical benefits of taping both shows at the same venue in Arlington, emphasizing the enthusiastic response from the “hot Texas crowd” and praising the “exciting, intimate environment” of the venue.
When asked about the possibility of split television deals for AEW and ROH, airing on different networks, Khan revealed that they are still engaged in productive discussions during an unprecedentedly long exclusive negotiating window. He praised Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) for being excellent partners and reflected on the storied history of professional wrestling on TNT and TBS. Khan emphasized his commitment to maintaining this great American institution and expressed excitement about the future for both AEW and ROH, noting AEW’s rising profile and the exciting media opportunities it presents. He mentioned that ROH has seen significant growth, with subscriber numbers for HonorClub at an all-time high, and reiterated that they are currently in exclusive talks with WBD, acknowledging high market demand for AEW but their current enthusiasm for continuing with WBD.
Regarding the artistic and aesthetic evolution of ROH in 2024, Khan noted several key developments. He highlighted a successful formula of hosting exciting pay-per-view events, maintaining a top-tier roster, and consistently delivering at major shows. Khan shared plans for aesthetic changes and expressed his intention to make the Arlington venue a flagship location for events like Death Before Dishonor, aiming to enhance its status as a premier home for ROH.
On the topic of lucha libre’s presence in Texas and the introduction of the Hologram character, Khan explained the strategic decision to tap into the vibrant local passion for lucha libre. He cited Texas’s rich lucha libre history as a rationale for bringing renowned lucha stars to the state and mentioned a partnership with CMLL, highlighting Willow Nightingale’s recent win of the CMLL Women’s Championship.
In response to a question about ROH’s role in the Wrestle Dynasty show at the Tokyo Dome, Khan indicated a strategic approach to differentiate ROH’s involvement from AEW’s. He anticipated that many top stars from both AEW and ROH would participate, mentioning plans to send numerous champions to Tokyo and affirming his strong commitment to NJPW.
Khan also addressed the criteria for bringing independent talent to face AEW or ROH wrestlers. He explained that the selection process varies depending on the specific needs of the show, ranging from featured roles to filling specific spots. Khan emphasized that it provides a valuable opportunity for unsigned talents to demonstrate their diverse abilities, both in the ring and backstage, to gain a foothold in the industry.
When asked about his memories of pro wrestling in Texas and whether he attended matches there in his youth, Khan clarified that he did not experience pro wrestling in Texas until AEW was established. He shared that his wrestling exposure was primarily in places where he lived, although he frequently traveled to Texas for NFL commitments. Despite this, Khan described himself as an avid fan of Texas wrestling from a young age, influenced by his passion for Mid-South and World Class Championship Wrestling. He recounted growing up trading tapes, which included many of his favorite matches and wrestling memories from Texas, particularly highlighting iconic feuds like the Von Erichs versus The Freebirds, and matches featuring Gino Hernandez against Chris Adams, and The Fantastics versus Midnight Express in World Class. He expressed a deep admiration for the Von Erich family and mentioned the thrill of working with Kevin Von Erich and his sons. More recently, Khan noted that many of his cherished Texas wrestling memories have been created through AEW and ROH events held in the state, including notable matches like Winter is Coming and the ROH pay-per-view shows, as well as the two acclaimed FTR vs. Briscoes matches hosted in Texas.
Regarding his reflections since acquiring ROH, Khan described the journey as incredible and remarked that the past two years have flown by. He noted that it’s an exhilarating time in the media landscape, presenting significant opportunities for both AEW and ROH. Khan highlighted that when he took over ROH, the promotion faced an uncertain future, but it has since experienced what he considers a tremendous revival, yielding some of the best moments and champions under his leadership.
When questioned about the validity of reports suggesting an agreement in principle between AEW and WBD for a new deal, Khan clarified that while discussions have been productive, it would be premature to announce a finalized deal. He noted that they had spoken with the WBD management team earlier that day and maintained a strong, ongoing dialogue. Khan also addressed rumors spread by WWE’s PR team, stating that these claims about the deal being finalized at the previous level were incorrect. He expressed confusion over why WWE PR was involved and suggested that they were stepping into matters that did not concern them. Khan emphasized that any upcoming deal would likely include a significant improvement.
Addressing concerns about fan fatigue due to the frequent wrestling shows in Texas, Khan reported strong ticket sales and enthusiasm, noting that the vibrant Texas wrestling fans have contributed to the high attendance. He dismissed concerns about saturation and mentioned fruitful partnerships and interactions with local entities like the Rangers, who are clients of his analytics company, and Six Flags. He also noted his family’s connections with the Cowboys, highlighting the collaborative nature of his ventures in Texas.
Khan concluded the media session by reflecting on the dynamic period for both AEW and ROH, especially regarding media rights. He shared insights into his busy schedule, balancing commitments with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he attended the first team meeting of the training camp, and the Fulham soccer club during the transfer window. Khan expressed particular excitement about returning to London for the All In event and the upcoming Death Before Dishonor in Arlington, a location poignant for being one of the last places the AEW crew saw Jay Briscoe. In honor of Briscoe, Khan voiced his commitment to ensuring Death Before Dishonor would be memorable, promising exceptional matches throughout the event.
July 25, 2024 2:57 pm
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