Major Tony Khan decision scrutinized by veteran; skepticism over AEW trying to emulate WWE again
The Tony Khan-led AEW has been WWE's biggest competitor in the pro wrestling business since its inception. To surpass All Elite Wrestling's rival company, Khan has made many decisions in the past that have seemingly involved imitating the global juggernaut.
Wrestling veteran Dave Meltzer is unsure whether the Jacksonville-based company's potential stadium show in Australia would be successful. A day ago, it was reported that AEW is planning to host an event in Australia in 2025. WWE recently did the same when they held Elimination Chamber 2024 in Perth, with Aussie star Rhea Ripley being the center of attraction.
AEW is also trying to expand its business globally and enter new markets. The company gained a foothold in the UK last year and is returning to the country later this month. It seems like Tony Khan's next target is Australia.
While it may be a good plan to expand the promotion's business globally, Dave Meltzer is skeptical about whether AEW emulating WWE will work in Khan's favor. The wrestling journalist said the following on the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Radio:
"That’s a big undertaking an Australia show (...) I don’t know if they’d sell out a major arena in Sydney or Melbourne but I think they would do very well. WCW in 2000, when they were dead still did good numbers in Australia, just because of the scarcity and everything like that. I think first time in they’d do well."
Meltzer further discussed the chances of AEW's potential stadium show in Australia being successful.
"The idea of going to a stadium (...) Man, they don’t have the viewership, they don’t have the popularity they do in the UK. It’s not even close. Maybe they’ll pull it off. I mean WWE pulled off three stadium shows, they were all successful. UFC pulled off stadium shows there. I don’t know, I’m skeptical of it." [H/T: WrestleTalk]
Tony Khan teases some important announcements
Tony Khan has vowed to make this year the most profitable one in the company's history. He has been working relentlessly for the same. In a recent interview with TV Insider, Khan teased many crucial announcements for fans.
Khan didn't reveal what exactly he had in store for the audience but mentioned that it was surely going to be exciting. He also said major things were happening on the screen and behind the curtains as well.