Backstage Update on WWE and AEW’s Real Stance About American Gladiators Drama

The internet lit up with rumors that WWE and AEW were unhappy with their talent being part of Amazon Prime’s American Gladiators reboot—but it turns out, the so-called “drama” isn’t real at all.

In a new Fightful Select Q&A, Sean Ross Sapp addressed the situation directly and shut down the speculation, revealing what he’s heard from both companies behind the scenes.

“There were some rumors that either WWE or AEW had an issue with the fact that Wardlow and Kamille of AEW were on the show and Miz is hosting. Before this even got announced, I asked, does AEW have any problem with this? And I was told no, it’s on Prime, they’re good with it. They got a good partnership with Prime.”

Sapp also cleared the air regarding WWE, following earlier reports suggesting the company wasn’t thrilled that The Miz would be hosting a show alongside AEW talent.

“And then when the report came out about WWE being—or one side being upset—I reached out to WWE higher ups and they were like, we haven’t heard anything like that. We don’t expect anything but professionalism from those talent and all that. So I have not heard one peep regarding any issues regarding American Gladiators and either of the companies.”

The reboot, which features Wardlow and Kamille stepping into Gladiator roles with The Miz hosting, is part of a massive Amazon Prime push that includes a 24/7 streaming channel and a Live Nation tour. Other names like J Rod, Jessie Godderz, and Eric Bugenhagen (formerly Rick Boogs) round out the roster.

Despite the internet chatter, both AEW and WWE appear to be perfectly fine with their stars trading suplexes for jousts and eliminators—at least for now.

Do you think pro wrestlers fit perfectly into American Gladiators, or should companies be more protective about crossovers like this? Drop your thoughts in the comments and tell us what you think about the revival.