Tony Khan says wrestlers can decide for themselves whether to step into the ring after PAC’s death. With ROH tapings going ahead and AEW Dynamite approaching, the AEW boss made it clear that participation in both shows is voluntary.
Speaking to the crowd at the September 28, 2026 ROH tapings in Jacksonville, Khan addressed that decision just before handing things over to ring announcer Bobby Cruise. He said everyone performing that night and on Wednesday had chosen to do so—and he believed their love for Benjamin Satterley was behind it.
“And just know that all the wrestlers wrestling here on Ring of Honor tonight and everybody wrestling this Wednesday is doing so voluntarily and I believe out of love for Ben. Thank you very much.”
Tony did not identify anyone who had decided to sit out or detail individual conversations about working the shows. His statement focused on those participating, assuring fans that the wrestlers they would see had voluntarily agreed to perform.
That also puts a personal meaning behind the matches. Khan described the decision to wrestle as something he believed came from affection for Ben, while leaving each performer’s individual reasons for them to share.
The bell will ring, but Khan says answering it is the wrestlers’ call. For those choosing to lace up their boots, he believes stepping into the ring is a way to show their love for the colleague they lost.
How do you feel about wrestlers having the choice to perform while grieving a colleague? Share your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
