Rob Van Dam Says Social Media Can Kill a WWE or AEW Star’s Push
Rob Van Dam explains why wrestlers posting online content that contradicts their on-screen character can directly cause a company like WWE to halt a major push.
AEW
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is an American professional wrestling promotion founded on January 1, 2019, by Tony Khan. His father, Shahid Khan, provided financial backing. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, AEW quickly positioned itself as a major alternative to WWE.
Cody Rhodes, The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson), and Kenny Omega played key roles in establishing AEW’s identity. They also served as executive vice presidents, shaping the company’s creative direction. As a result, AEW attracted a dedicated fanbase from its early days.
On May 25, 2019, AEW held its first major event, Double or Nothing, in Las Vegas. The show received widespread praise and signaled AEW’s arrival on the national stage. Shortly after, AEW signed a television deal with TNT, launching AEW Dynamite in October 2019.
Unlike many competitors, AEW emphasized athletic matches, long-term storytelling, and creative freedom for wrestlers. Moreover, it introduced new concepts, such as the TNT Championship and the Trios Championships, to differentiate itself.
Throughout its growth, AEW signed top names like Chris Jericho, Jon Moxley, and CM Punk, boosting its credibility. It also formed partnerships with NJPW, Impact Wrestling, and AAA, allowing cross-promotional matches and appearances.
Despite facing competition and challenges, AEW expanded rapidly. It launched additional programs like Rampage, Collision, and ROH-branded events. Furthermore, AEW consistently sold out major venues and drew strong television ratings.
Today, AEW stands as the second-largest wrestling promotion in the United States. It continues to challenge industry norms and push professional wrestling into a new era.
Update on Lawsuit Accusing AEW and Tony Khan of Defamation
A federal court has dismissed the appeal from Kevin Kelly and The Tate Twins in their lawsuit against AEW, ruling it premature due to a prior order for arbitration.
AEW Announces Major Matches For Upcoming Dynamite, Collision
AEW sets a major Street Fight between The Demand and Hurt Syndicate for Dynamite Title Tuesday, where Mercedes Mone will also issue a TBS Championship Open Challenge.
Toni Storm’s AEW Future Officially Revealed
Following a victory on AEW Dynamite, Toni Storm issued a formal challenge to Kris Statlander for a championship rematch at WrestleDream, seeking to reclaim the title she lost at All Out.
Cody Rhodes Featured On AEW Dynamite
AEW Dynamite's sixth-anniversary broadcast included video appearances by Cody Rhodes and CM Punk, two foundational figures who are both currently signed with rival promotion WWE.
Adam Page To Defend AEW World Title Against Former 2-Time WWE US Champion
The alliance between AEW World Champion Hangman Page and Samoa Joe has fractured, leading to a championship match being confirmed for WrestleDream after a physical post-match altercation on Dynamite.
CM Punk Featured On AEW Dynamite Broadcast
CM Punk was featured in a video montage during AEW Dynamite's 6th anniversary show, a notable inclusion given the controversial circumstances surrounding his 2023 departure from the company.
Don Callis Family Adds Another Major AEW Star Following Andrade’s Return
The Don Callis Family expanded on AEW Dynamite, adding the returning Andrade El Idolo and revealing Evil El Clone as its newest member following a TNT Championship match.
Major Star Makes Shocking Return On AEW Dynamite
Andrade El Idolo makes a shocking return to AEW, attacking Kenny Omega and forging a powerful new alliance with Don Callis just weeks after his WWE departure.
Tony Khan Casts Doubt On Chris Jericho’s AEW Return
AEW President Tony Khan has publicly stated he wants Chris Jericho back as soon as possible, calling him a foundational star amid swirling rumors of his contract expiring this year.
Orange Cassidy Comments On Kris Statlander’s AEW Women’s World Championship Victory
Orange Cassidy opens up about former stablemate Kris Statlander’s historic AEW Women’s World Championship win, addressing their on-screen breakup and her perseverance through injuries.
Tony Khan Details Reasoning Behind New AEW Women’s Tag Team Titles
Citing a roster at its strongest and the rise of new teams, AEW President Tony Khan has officially introduced the AEW Women's World Tag Team Championship.
Update On Ronda Rousey’s Future Following AEW Talks Report
Ariel Helwani fuels speculation of a Ronda Rousey comeback, stating he believes "something is happening" based on her recent MMA training videos and renewed love for the sport.
AEW Makes Major Announcement Ahead of Dynamite 6th Anniversary Show
AEW and DC Comics are joining forces for a new crossover comic book, with an exclusive preview set to debut at New York Comic Con.
Current AEW Champion Reportedly Dealing With Injury
ROH World Television Champion Nick Wayne is reportedly injured, casting uncertainty over his major new heel storyline just months after he turned on mentor Christian Cage at All In: Texas.
Former Champion Says Fans Drove His AEW Success
Orange Cassidy reveals he owes his AEW success to early fan support, discussing his journey from comedy act to title contender ahead of his TNT Championship match.
AEW Makes Major Last-Minute Announcement for Tonight’s Dynamite
AEW celebrates Dynamite's sixth anniversary with a massive trios main event pitting Hangman Page’s team against Jon Moxley’s, alongside multiple title defenses and key returns.
Chris Jericho Credited With Inspiring Jack Perry’s ‘Scapegoat’ Persona
Jack Perry revealed that a private text conversation with Chris Jericho following the All In incident provided the exact inspiration for his current "Scapegoat" character.
Britt Baker Breaks Silence Amid AEW Status Rumors
Amid swirling speculation about her AEW future, former champion Britt Baker breaks her silence with a direct message of gratitude to her loyal supporters.
Jack Perry Promises Major Change For Jurassic Express In AEW
Jack Perry reveals his vision for the reunited Jurassic Express, promising a darker evolution for the team following their surprise return at AEW All Out.