Tony Khan Teases AEW’s Expansion Plans and Streaming Deal with Max

Tony Khan is pulling back the curtain on AEW’s next moves, and wrestling fans, there’s a lot to unpack. Speaking with Brian & Kenzie on Q101, the AEW mastermind opened up about everything from the company’s live event dominance to its massive new streaming deal with Max, and even gave his take on TV ratings drama.

Khan didn’t hold back when discussing how the pandemic reshaped AEW’s touring strategy. “Since we came out of that and started touring again… in those three years, it’s been absolutely great being back on the road,” he said. He also credited AEW’s ability to expand into unexpected markets, boasting about breaking attendance records at last year’s All In event at Wembley Stadium.

Live events, Khan said, have become a major focus for AEW. He pointed out that the company thrives in big markets like Chicago and college towns when school’s in session. “Pro wrestling is a 52-a-year business,” he explained. “In major markets, we’ve had good success.” He teased more residency-style shows, similar to AEW’s hit Arlington event, saying, “It’s a great model and could be something to go back to.”

Khan couldn’t help but hype AEW’s new streaming deal with Max, calling it a game-changer for wrestling fans. “We’ll be available in almost twice as many homes starting in January,” he revealed. “It’s gonna open so many new fans up to the experience for the first time ever.” He’s betting on the shift to streaming to bring in a fresh wave of viewers, especially those who’ve cut the cord.

When asked about TV ratings, Khan brushed off the importance of superfans obsessing over weekly numbers. “I’m not sure the average fan actually pays attention to that,” he admitted. But he still celebrated AEW’s recent ratings climb. “Collision over the last several weeks has gone up three straight weeks. Getting out from the World Series and election cycle… it was great to go into November with Full Gear and get fans excited.”

Khan’s confident AEW’s future is brighter than ever, with streaming, live events, and a growing audience all part of the plan. With AEW gearing up for an epic 2025 with streaming on Max, record-breaking live events, and fans tuning in from all corners, it’s clear Tony Khan has big plans to keep AEW at the top of the wrestling game. As the wrestling world continues to evolve, AEW is ready to lead the charge, one suplex at a time.