Tony Khan fielded questions on various topics, including the choice to air security footage from a backstage altercation between CM Punk and Jack Perry that occurred at All In 2023.
The footage was part of a storyline involving The Young Bucks and FTR, with the former attributing their loss to FTR to backstage distractions, possibly stemming from their positions as Executive Vice Presidents in the company. This decision to air the footage has been a subject of criticism within the wrestling community.
In response to inquiries about the controversial segment, in a recent media call before the upcoming AEW Dynasty pay-per-view event, Tony Khan stood by the decision, emphasising the significance of pleasing the network and pleasing the fans. He pointed to the positive feedback received from TBS, highlighting the strong performance of the show, particularly in the 18-49 demographic.
When TBS called me and told me ‘Good job,’ you have to remember that I’m responsible for everybody’s jobs in the company, and it is really important for us to please the network, and TBS was really happy with that show and that performance. That’s the most important thing. Our fan feedback on the show that we got, the rating is the number one source of fan feedback. And the network, they were incredibly pleased. It was over 400,000 viewers in the 18-49 demographic, and that was a strong performance.
Khan stressed that the network’s satisfaction and the fans’ reception were pivotal in evaluating the show’s success, indicating that the decision to air the footage had added significant intrigue to the ongoing storyline.
Khan was also questioned about recent comments made by CM Punk during an appearance on the MMA Hour, where he alleged booking and paying for his own surgery after suffering a torn tricep at All Out 2022. Tony Khan expressed scepticism about the claim and mentioned that the company typically covers medical expenses arising from in-ring injuries. He stated that he would look into the matter and, if necessary, would reimburse Punk if it was verified that he indeed paid for his own surgery.
We typically do pay those expenses, I’d have to look into that. We can’t say for sure. It doesn’t sound right to me. If that is the case, then I would reimburse him, honestly.
What Did Tony Khan Say About Stepping Down As The Head Booker Of AEW?
Tony Khan stated that he is well aware that no job lasts forever including his role as head of AEW creative and that eventually he would step down from that role but currently, he is having more fun than ever and is going to try his best to repay the AEW talent for their loyalty.
In an April 2024 interview, a WWE star addressed their previous issues with CM Punk.
H/t to POSTWrestling.com