Tony Khan Talks AEW’s Efforts To Create Locker Room Talent Doesn’t Dread Working In

Wrestlers put their bodies to the test more than only by grappling in the ring. Some of the wrestlers struggle with substance misuse and mental illness. Professional wrestlers are marketed as heroes and villains, but the men behind those roles are frequently shrouded in secrecy.

All Elite Wrestling was created in 2019, is urging wrestlers to be open about their struggles with masculinity and mental health in a sector where these topics are rarely discussed. In one instance of this unwavering support, Jon Moxley, was admitted to rehab in November 2021.

When Moxley returned in January, he gave a promo to the crowd. Last year, Jesse Guilmette, who goes by the ring moniker The Blade, posted on Instagram about his struggles with depression, anxiety, and self-confidence. Khan talked with ABC News and discussed the positive environment AEW is attempting to foster.

I think having a fun place to work where, you know, we create, like an environment where we really do care about the people here. We try to show it and make the locker rooms here places where people aren’t going to dread coming in, and quite the opposite, where hopefully they look forward to seeing the other people that, you know, you get in the ring and fight.

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According to Mental Health America, an Alexandria, Virginia-based group, male suicides have increased since 2000, and 6 million males suffer from depression that is often undiagnosed. Megha Parekh, AEW’s chief legal counsel, handles the firm’s HR and mental health initiatives. AEW offers mental health services, as well as regular trainings and facility conversations around racial and cultural events.

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