AEW President Tony Khan spoke with the wrestling media on Thursday, November 12, 2026, ahead of Saturday’s AEW Full Gear pay-per-view. Khan discussed the company’s future, its relationship with Warner Bros., and its partnership with NJPW.
Khan opened the call by saying he’s excited about Full Gear and feels better than ever about AEW’s future.
When asked about AEW’s plans for 2027, Khan revealed that he has met with Skydance Chairman and CEO David Ellison four times. He believes Ellison is a big supporter of AEW, but the two have never discussed contract negotiations.
Khan also believes the upcoming HBO Max and Paramount bundle could help AEW grow. He pointed out that AEW still has plenty of time left on its current TV deal and said his focus remains on growing the company rather than chasing contract negotiations.
When asked about changes within DC Comics and Warner Bros., Khan said AEW has maintained a strong relationship with DC and expects that partnership to continue.
Khan also discussed AEW’s relationship with NJPW and said he’s happy to help with Wrestle Kingdom. He recalled tensions between the companies in 2019 and 2020 before their relationship improved through his work with Rocky Romero and the launch of Forbidden Door.
He added that he’s happy to see AEW wrestlers interested in working for NJPW and supporting the partnership. Khan also addressed the storyline involving Will Ospreay, Kyle Fletcher, and Callum Newman while staying in character.
Tony Khan discussed Claudio Castagnoli’s future in AEW and said he believes Castagnoli is capable of holding any championship in the company, including the AEW World Title. Khan praised his relationship with Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson, saying their love for wrestling has helped AEW. He also said the bond between the Death Riders is genuine and called Castagnoli a major part of the faction. Khan recalled Castagnoli joining AEW when Adam Cole, CM Punk, and Danielson were all sidelined with injuries, and said he feels fortunate to have him on the roster.
When asked about Wrestle Dynasty, Khan said NJPW appears focused on making Wrestle Kingdom as big as possible this year. He noted that Wrestle Dynasty previously complemented Wrestle Kingdom, but this year’s card already has a similar feel. Khan said AEW remains committed to supporting NJPW.
Khan also addressed AEW’s future media rights negotiations. He said he wants the best deal possible for the company but prefers to stay with his current television partners. He explained that he made his loyalty to Warner Bros. Discovery clear during their previous negotiations.
Discussing AEW’s recent three-hour television block, Khan said several wrestlers arrived late because they were traveling from the Jericho Cruise. He had to adjust parts of the shows, but felt everything worked out well. Nick Wayne was among those delayed, though he still made it onto the broadcast. Khan also praised the live episode of AEW Collision from the Jericho Cruise, noting that the company couldn’t broadcast the event live back in 2020.
Khan also praised Marcus Mathers after his recent appearances in ROH and AEW Collision. He explained that Mathers earned his Collision match after impressing officials during an ROH taping. Christopher Daniels recommended Mathers, who had come to the Jericho Cruise looking for work. Khan said he didn’t realize Mathers’ WWE ID deal had expired and was impressed by his matches against Mark Davis and Nick Wayne. He expects fans to see more of Mathers in AEW, ROH, or both.
Tony Khan provided a brief update on Christian, saying he is doing well but is still dealing with a very challenging recovery. Khan did not share any additional details about his condition or when he might return.
Khan also discussed the decision to rename The Last Outfit to The Cut. He praised Jay White and the members of the group, saying he believes in what they’re doing. Khan explained that the pairing of Bang Bang Gang members with two members of the Dogs worked well, and Jay White embraced the idea. He added that he’s happy with how the group is coming together.
Tony Khan praised Marina Shafir and credited Jon Moxley for helping her grow in AEW. Khan said Moxley has been a strong supporter, mentor, and partner to Shafir, and has always believed in her abilities. He also praised Shafir’s hard work and progress, saying she has earned her championship opportunity against Mercedes Mone at Full Gear.
Khan wrapped up the media call by thanking everyone and saying he hopes fans enjoy AEW Full Gear on Saturday.
