One big thing: Don Callis, known for his villainous persona in AEW, unexpectedly praises the promotion’s locker room atmosphere.
Don Callis, a veteran wrestling personality and current AEW manager, surprisingly lauded the AEW locker room during an appearance on “Busted Open Radio” this week.
• Callis called it “the best locker room I’ve ever been in,” comparing it favorably to every other major promotion he’s worked for.
• He noted the excitement among talent to come to work, a sentiment he shares despite his on-screen antagonistic role.
• This praise comes from a figure who has been positioned as a manipulative heel in AEW storylines.
Why it matters
Callis’s comments provide a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into AEW’s workplace culture, potentially boosting the company’s reputation as an employer in the wrestling industry.
By the numbers
• Callis has worked in nearly all major wrestling promotions over his career, spanning decades.
• AEW, founded in 2019, is relatively young compared to other major wrestling companies.
What’s next
Callis’s client, Konosuke Takeshita, is set to compete in Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling this weekend:
• Saturday: Takeshita vs. “Speedball” Mike Bailey
• Sunday: AEW International Championship defense against Josh Alexander
The bottom line
While Callis may play a despicable character on screen, his off-screen praise for AEW’s locker room environment suggests a positive backstage atmosphere that could contribute to the company’s long-term success and talent retention.
What do you think about Don Callis’s comments on AEW’s locker room? Do you believe a positive backstage environment translates to better on-screen product? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
