Tony Khan Accused of Hijacking NWA Legacy After AEW National Championship Reveal

The war of words between the NWA and wrestling’s biggest power players just got personal. After a week of heated online exchanges involving Vince Russo, Dave Meltzer, and NWA promoter Bryan Idol, the latest target in Idol’s crosshairs is AEW President Tony Khan.

Following Khan’s live announcement of the AEW National Championship, Idol took to Twitter/X with a series of fiery posts blasting AEW’s decision to revive the “National Championship” name—one closely tied to NWA history. The move struck a nerve with Idol, who accused AEW of using the NWA’s legacy for attention.

“We are now at the point where two televised wrestling promotions have resorted to using the NWA for relevance in the same week,” Idol wrote. “Could it be that as usual we are winning way more than anyone gives us credit for? We are only getting started! The NWA has so much more to show you!”

Idol didn’t stop there. He directly called out Tony Khan in a follow-up tweet that took aim at AEW’s talent style and creative direction.

“Tony, this is beneath you. Stick to what made you famous. small weird hands in the pocket wrestlers and other local VFW guys that you put in main events.. stop being petty bro.”

In another post, Idol referenced NWA legend Austin Idol—who originally held the NWA National Championship—and accused Khan of trying to co-opt wrestling history for AEW’s benefit.

“Austin Idol is the first ever National Champion and basically the creator of it all and he is still active in the NWA!”

Then, he fired one more shot, mocking Khan’s wealth and suggesting that AEW is attempting to “buy” legitimacy instead of earning it.

“Dude is Ritchie Rich and it’s not enough he’s bought his way in now he’s gotta steal legacies! unreal.”

Bryan Idol’s comments come just days after he defended the NWA against rumors involving Vince Russo and criticism from Dave Meltzer, calling Meltzer “a no-nothing mark” and stating that the NWA is “super legit.” Now, with AEW’s new title announcement in the spotlight, Idol is doubling down on his mission to protect the NWA’s brand and legacy.