Effy Boasts Viral Success and Merchandise Boost After Tony Khan Controversy

Independent wrestling star Effy is at the center of a storm after his sharp comments about AEW President Tony Khan’s father, Shad Khan, set off a chain reaction that left Ricky Starks pulled from future GCW bookings. The fallout has ignited debates among fans and wrestlers alike, with Effy unapologetically leaning into the chaos.

Taking to Twitter, Effy addressed the controversy head-on, sharing a clip from his podcast where he threw shade at AEW and the Khan family. “Brett [Lauderdale] doesn’t have a dad who pays him to stay away,” Effy said, referring to the GCW owner while indirectly taking a swipe at AEW’s billionaire backing.

Effy then encouraged his fans to judge his words for themselves, tweeting, “Listen to @weekendateffys, support small business, judge my words for yourself, support Ricky Starks.” While many expected him to backtrack, Effy did the opposite, celebrating his viral moment. “There’s so many of these comments I oopsy trended 4th in the USA and sold a lot of shirts thanks and remember to f*** Effy,” he wrote.

The drama escalated when reports surfaced that AEW pulled Ricky Starks from GCW events on November 26, citing Effy’s comments as the likely reason. Fans were quick to express frustration, viewing Starks as collateral damage in a feud that had nothing to do with him.

Effy’s bold approach has highlighted the freedom—and consequences—independent wrestlers face when speaking their minds. His remarks also raise questions about AEW’s handling of external controversies and the impact on their talent. Meanwhile, Tony Khan has remained silent, but fans are eager to see how AEW’s top brass addresses the situation moving forward.