In a recent conversation featured in Bleacher Report, Tony Khan, who is the current President of AEW, discussed several topics pertaining to the world of wrestling. Khan shared his viewpoints on AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2024, ongoing inter-promotional relations of AEW, his experience of receiving a spike piledriver on AEW Dynamite, and several other subjects.
Key highlights from the podcast are as follows:
When asked about his association with CMLL, Khan shared, “I derive immense pleasure from my collaboration with CMLL. I am positive that our business relationship will strengthen over time and bear healthy outcomes. The CMLL team headed by Salvador [Lutteroth III] has been exceptional to work with. I’ve been nurturing the dream of working with them for many years…”
Discussing STARDOM, Khan noted, “We’ve been fortunate to have a fruitful partnership with the team at STARDOM. This is the type of alliance I’ve wanted to establish with them for ages, and with recent management changes, we’ve finally achieved that.”
With reference to the growing bond of AEW and NJPW with the emergence of Forbidden Door III, Khan expressed, “Since president [Hiroshi] Tanahashi has taken control of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, our alliance has only become more robust. I foresee the upcoming Forbidden Door as the best yet.”
Responding to a query about getting a spike piledriver on Dynamite, he stated, “I don’t believe any pro wrestler would want to endure a spike piledriver. It’s highly dangerous and is prohibited by numerous pro wrestling organizations…”
Highlighting his appearance with his father during the NFL Draft, he said, “My father, [Shad Khan], found it amusing. He was fully aware that it would garner attention. He recognizes the significance of AEW, and despite not being a hardcore wrestling fan, he keeps up with AEW.”
Speaking about Rich Eisen’s comments about the neck brace, he revealed, “Eisen, the host of the NFL draft and the voice of NFL, referenced the neck brace during each round. His comments helped draw significant attention towards AEW.”
The AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door event is slated for Sunday, June 30, at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.