Introduction
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has been the subject of much speculation recently regarding the potential for a major stadium show in the United States next year. AEW, known for its ability to draw large crowds and host significant events, has a proven track record in this regard. This article will delve into the rumors, AEW’s history with major events, the statements from AEW President Tony Khan, and what fans can expect in the future.
AEW’s History of Major Events
AEW has made a name for itself by hosting large-scale wrestling events in prominent venues. The promotion has successfully held stadium shows at New York’s Arthur Ashe Stadium and London’s iconic Wembley Stadium. The 2023 event at Wembley was particularly notable, as it set a new attendance record for AEW, with over 81,000 tickets sold. These events have cemented AEW’s reputation as a major player in the wrestling world, capable of drawing significant crowds and delivering high-quality entertainment.
Speculation About a U.S. Stadium Show
The latest buzz comes from a report by Fightful, which suggests that AEW is planning a large-scale event in the Dallas/Arlington area in 2025. Sources in the region have hinted that this could be a stadium show on par with AEW’s biggest events. This speculation has excited fans and industry insiders alike, who are eager to see AEW continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in professional wrestling.
Tony Khan’s Response
Despite the excitement, AEW President Tony Khan has sought to manage expectations. Speaking at the ROH Death Before Dishonor media scrum, Khan addressed the rumors directly. He acknowledged the speculation but emphasized that there are no immediate plans for a U.S. stadium show.
Khan’s Comments in Detail
Khan’s comments provide a nuanced perspective on the situation. “I think it’s speculative to talk about,” Khan said. “Certainly, nobody ever thought we would sell over 81,000 tickets at Wembley Stadium. Time after time, whether it was the very first AEW show where we did the fastest sell-out in the history of Las Vegas for pro wrestling, that’s something we had never done. I would say never count out AEW in any aspect of the pro wrestling business. We have amazed people from our very first show until right now. It’s amazing what AEW has done in five years.”
Khan’s remarks highlight AEW’s track record of exceeding expectations. From the very beginning, AEW has been breaking records and setting new standards in the industry. The first AEW show sold out faster than any other wrestling event in Las Vegas history, and the promotion has continued to achieve remarkable milestones.
The Growth of AEW
Khan also spoke about the growth of AEW over the past five years. “We’re coming up on the five-year anniversary of Wednesday Night Dynamite,” he said. “The leaps and bounds AEW has grown is really an amazing thing we’ve done.…… As far as AEW, we’ve never tried to do a stadium show in America. I do think you can never count AEW out.”
This statement underscores the rapid development of AEW as a major wrestling promotion. In just five years, AEW has gone from a new entrant in the wrestling world to one of its most significant players. The success of Wednesday Night Dynamite, AEW’s flagship television program, has been a critical factor in this growth.