FTR Explains Why AEW Training Facility Hasn’t Happened Yet

AEW’s plans for a dedicated training facility may have stalled, but FTR isn’t ready to give up on the idea just yet.

While speaking on the Battleground podcast, Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler addressed Tony Khan’s previous interest in building an AEW-affiliated training school in Asheville. The facility was rumored to involve FTR and Adam Copeland directly, but according to Harwood, it doesn’t look like much progress has been made.

“Um, I don’t know where that stands. All I know is that, that is—for Cash too—but you know, speaking specifically for me, training is something that I’m very, very, very interested in, something I love doing.”

Despite the uncertainty, Harwood revealed that they’ve already had AEW talent travel to Asheville to work with them. One of those names? Sting’s son. The experience reinforced just how serious he is about coaching.

“We did have a few guys and girls come to Asheville from AEW and they were doing very well. We were working with Sting’s son as well and… training will scratch that itch for me. I hope to one day be able to do that. If it’s with AEW, that would be even better. So we’ll see.”

Cash Wheeler added some realism to the conversation, noting that their packed AEW schedule simply doesn’t allow for consistent training work right now. Between weekly appearances on Dynamite and Collision, pay-per-views, and international tours, they’re barely home long enough to establish anything structured.

“Right now, honestly, especially for us, we do most weeks—we do Dynamite and Collision—and that’s, you know, four days on the road or so at that point… So, it might be easier for us once we’re a little more part-time.”

The idea of an AEW-run training facility had gained momentum in recent years but was ultimately scrapped. The biggest reason? Cost.

Internal reports indicated that the budget needed to build and operate the facility simply didn’t align with AEW’s current resources.

Even so, the concept clearly still means a lot to FTR. Both men have expressed a deep passion for mentoring talent, and once their schedules ease up, it looks like the door could reopen. Whether it ends up being under the AEW banner or something they do independently, coaching seems to be firmly in their future.

Do you want to see FTR run an AEW training facility one day? Should AEW invest in a dedicated wrestling school? Let us know what you think in the comments.

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