Concerns Raised Over AEW’s Extended Pay-Per-View Runtime

Bully Ray is throwing down the gauntlet on AEW’s marathon-length pay-per-views, and he thinks it’s time the company hits the brakes.

Speaking on Busted Open Radio while reviewing AEW Full Gear 2025, Bully didn’t hold back when it came to how long AEW’s shows run. The former ECW legend compared it to his early days in Philly, but made a clear distinction: those long nights weren’t broadcast to millions.

“In ECW back in the day, we would have very long shows at the ECW Arena, but that was for the 1,000 people who showed up to see the show. It wasn’t for the people watching on pay-per-view at home.”

Back then, the crowd was in the building. Now? Most are watching from their couches—and Bully thinks AEW’s current format tests patience.

“When it comes to the length of the show, I understand some fans being upset with that.”

Even though Full Gear took place in front of a hot Newark crowd, Bully says there’s only so much adrenaline fans can realistically maintain. His advice to AEW? Trim the fat.

“Listen, five hours is a long time to keep an energy level up no matter what you are doing. I think that for AEW, the sweet spot for them might be four hours. Knock it down one hour. We know you’re never getting this done in three.”

Bully pointed out that four-hour events like concerts and football games can keep attention without wearing fans down—but five hours of wrestling? That’s pushing it, even for the diehards.

AEW has built a reputation for loading up its pay-per-view cards with dream matches and nonstop action, but Bully’s critique is a reminder that more isn’t always better.