AEW’s Injury Woes: How Tony Khan Manages Roster Challenges

One big thing: AEW faces roster depletion due to injuries

AEW is grappling with a wave of injuries following Double Or Nothing 2024, with Adam Copeland, Darby Allin, FTR, and Eddie Kingston joining the list of sidelined stars.

• Kenny Omega and Jamie Hayter were already on extended hiatuses due to injuries
• MJF recently returned, offering some relief to the depleted roster

Why it matters

The mounting injuries pose a significant challenge for AEW’s booking and could potentially impact the quality of upcoming shows and storylines.

Tony Khan’s approach to managing injuries

In an interview with Bleacher Report, AEW CEO Tony Khan explained his strategy for dealing with the injury crisis:

• Flexibility in booking: “It’s happened so much and we’ve had to change so many things”
• Acknowledging the impact: Khan referenced The Young Bucks’ “body count” and their “reign of terror”
• Highlighting specific cases: He mentioned injuries to FTR, Eddie Kingston, and Darby Allin

On Adam Copeland’s injury

“Adam Copeland, also that night at Double or Nothing, not necessarily related to The Elite, but a lot of injuries have happened in AEW with top stars.”

AEW’s deep roster as a saving grace

Khan emphasized the importance of AEW’s roster depth in mitigating the impact of injuries:

• “We still have so many super-popular stars on this roster who’ve stepped up”
• “AEW is where the best wrestle”
• “The show has been able to continue because we have so many great women and men stepping up”

Looking ahead

AEW’s next major event, Forbidden Door, is scheduled for June 30, headlined by Swerve Strickland vs. Will Ospreay for the AEW World Title.

How do you think these injuries will affect AEW’s upcoming storylines and match quality? Share your thoughts in the comments below.