Tony Khan, the President and CEO of AEW and executive of the Jacksonville Jaguars, recently caused controversy during the NFL Draft by comparing WWE to disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein. Khan stated that AEW is like the Pepsi of pro wrestling, while WWE is like the Harvey Weinstein of wrestling. The remarks led to outrage online and were met with uncomfortable laughter from the NFL Network hosts. Despite the backlash, the NFL reportedly expressed interest in featuring Khan on the network in the future.
Khan’s viral moments have increased in the spotlight as AEW struggles with viewership. While AEW saw a brief increase in viewership with a dramatic episode featuring CM Punk, numbers have begun to decline again. Viewership fell to 683,000 viewers, the lowest since January 2021, with stiff competition from the NBA and NHL playoffs affecting ratings. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio noted that AEW is in a difficult position and must rebuild momentum to secure a strong TV deal in the future.
AEW’s negotiations for their next television deal are crucial for the promotion’s future as a viable No. 2 behind WWE. Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is a top contender for the NBA’s media rights deal, which could impact AEW’s negotiations. Despite this, AEW Dynamite consistently ranks in the Top 5 of weekly cable television ratings, strengthening their case for a lucrative TV deal. AEW is currently running a significant storyline with The Elite attempting to recreate the New World Order and take over the promotion, making this angle one of the most important in AEW’s history.
The recent comments made by Tony Khan highlight the challenges currently facing AEW as they navigate through declining viewership and important negotiations for their television deal. While Khan’s remarks drew criticism, the NFL network appears to be unfazed and interested in featuring him in the future. AEW’s struggles with viewership, particularly in the face of tough competition from other sports, put pressure on the promotion to rebuild momentum and secure a strong TV deal to ensure its future viability as a top wrestling promotion.
Dave Meltzer emphasized the importance of this year for AEW, as they are in a contract year for their upcoming TV deal and at a weak point in terms of momentum. AEW’s negotiations for their next television deal will play a significant role in determining their future as a major wrestling promotion. Despite challenges, AEW’s consistent performance in weekly cable television ratings, along with ongoing storylines like The Elite angle, provide hope for a successful future for the upstart promotion as they seek to solidify their position in the wrestling industry.
