Mark Henry Calls Out AEW for Favoring Friendships Over Veteran Input

Mark Henry isn’t holding back when it comes to AEW’s management style—and he thinks it’s time for Tony Khan to give more power to the people who’ve actually been there.

Speaking on TMZ’s Inside The Ring, the WWE Hall of Famer and former AEW talent shared exactly what he believes AEW is lacking: true veteran input. When asked what move AEW should make to close the gap with WWE and TNA, Henry cut straight to the point.

“I think the number one thing that would really set it off is to let people that… were champions… have more input and not let it be about friendships and relationships.”

Henry acknowledged that Tony Khan is deeply involved with every part of AEW’s operation, but he argued that long-term success requires structure—not just passion.

“Tony has his hands on everything and he wants to do what he wants to do. If I were a billionaire, I’d be the same way.”

Comparing AEW’s locker room dynamic to WWE’s, Henry made it clear that WWE’s process isn’t about stifling creativity—it’s about guiding it through a system that works.

“In WWE, it’s about the structure of the business, the planning… it’s a negotiation, but you have to be able to actually have input. If you don’t have any really good ideas, then be quiet.”

He mentioned that veteran wrestlers need to have a say not for ego—but because they know how to build sustainable stars and stories.

Mark Henry knows the business inside and out, and his perspective is hard to ignore. He’s seen both locker rooms and lived through multiple eras. If AEW wants to step up, maybe it’s time to listen to the ones who paved the way.

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