Thekla is opening up about why she decided to stay with AEW long-term — and based on her comments, she never seriously considered leaving.
While speaking to Inside the Ring, the current AEW Women’s World Champion explained why signing a new multi-year deal with All Elite Wrestling felt like the obvious decision for her career. According to Thekla, the company’s atmosphere, locker room environment, and relationship with Tony Khan all played major roles in her decision.
Thekla first revealed that the conversation about extending her stay happened directly with Tony Khan, who approached her about remaining with the company longer than originally planned.
“What made this the right move? I think AEW is a perfect fit for me. So when boss man asked me, ‘Hey, would you mind staying with us for a little longer than we originally said?’ I was like, ‘Yeah, if the circumstances are right and allow it for me to feel lucrative enough, I’m definitely thinking that could be a very cute idea.’ So, it’s great.”
She then made it clear that once the details came together, agreeing to the deal became an easy choice. Thekla also praised the backstage atmosphere inside AEW and explained that she genuinely enjoys the environment she works in every week
“No, honestly, a no-brainer. Like, I love TK. I love working with him, and I love his energy backstage, and all the girls are nice. The locker room is quiet and peaceful, and I love my job. It’s cute, you know?”
She didn’t stop there as she also shot down the idea that another wrestling company could currently offer her something better.
“I don’t think the grass is greener anywhere else because I’m sitting in a f****** flower garden, you know?”
The comments come after Fightful Select reported that AEW moved aggressively to secure Thekla’s future before she could even reach free agency. According to Sean Ross Sapp, Thekla negotiated the deal through professional representation and received a substantial raise as part of the new agreement.
Fightful also reported that people representing Thekla believed WWE likely would have shown serious interest had she become available, but AEW finalized the extension early enough to prevent any potential bidding war from developing.
Since arriving in AEW following her departure from STARDOM in 2025, Thekla has steadily become one of the company’s top women’s stars. Earlier this year, she captured the AEW Women’s World Championship after defeating Kris Statlander in a strap match.
With AEW now locking her into a long-term deal and Thekla openly praising the company environment, it’s clear both sides view this partnership as a major part of the promotion’s future.
Do you think AEW made the right move locking Thekla into a long-term contract early, or would you have liked to see WWE try to pursue her in free agency? Leave your thoughts and feedback below.
Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.
