If you’re a wrestling fan, you’ve probably heard of All Elite Wrestling (AEW). In just a few short years, AEW has gone from a brand-new wrestling company to one of the most prominent players in the industry. But what is AEW, and how did it get to where it is today?
The founding of AEW
AEW was founded in 2019 by Tony Khan, the son of billionaire businessman Shahid Khan. Tony Khan, a lifelong wrestling fan, had long dreamed of starting his own wrestling company. With his family’s backing, he was able to make that dream a reality.
Khan didn’t start AEW alone, however. He was joined by Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson), three of the biggest names in independent wrestling. Together, they set out to create a wrestling company that would do things differently.
AEW’s unique approach
So, what sets AEW apart from other wrestling companies?
- For starters, AEW has a strong focus on in-ring competition. The company has some of the best wrestlers in the world, and they’re given the time and freedom to showcase their skills in exciting matches. AEW has also introduced new match types, such as the “Stadium Stampede” match, which took place in an empty football stadium during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- AEW is also known for its fan-friendly atmosphere. The company hosts meet-and-greets and other interactive events, allowing fans to get up close and personal with their favourite wrestlers. AEW shows are also known for their lively crowds, who are encouraged to be part of the action.
- Perhaps most importantly, AEW is committed to diversity and inclusivity. The company has a diverse roster of wrestlers, and it’s made a point to hire women and people of colour in key roles behind the scenes. AEW has also been vocal in its support of LGBTQ+ rights.
Breaking down AEW’s success
Since its founding, AEW has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, and now it is as famous and bellowed as popular 1 dollar deposit casinos in Canada. The company’s weekly television show, Dynamite, debuted in October 2019 to over 1.4 million viewers, a massive number for a new wrestling company. Since then, Dynamite has consistently been one of the highest-rated shows on cable television in the United States.
AEW has also seen great success with its pay-per-view events—the company’s first pay-per-view, Double or Nothing, sold out in just four minutes. AEW has since held several successful pay-per-views, including All Out, Revolution, and Full Gear.
Part of the reason for AEW’s success has been its marketing strategy. The company has innovatively promoted its shows, using social media and other digital platforms to reach fans worldwide. AEW has also partnered with companies like Hot Topic and Cracker Barrel, bringing wrestling merchandise and food to a wider audience.
The impact of AEW on the wrestling industry
AEW’s success has not gone unnoticed in the wrestling industry. For years, WWE had been the dominant force in wrestling, with no real competition. But AEW has changed that. The company has given fans a new option, putting pressure on WWE to up its game.
AEW has also brought new ideas and concepts to the wrestling landscape. For example, the company has introduced new match types, like the Stadium Stampede match, giving wrestlers more creative freedom. AEW has also been more willing to take risks, such as bringing in former WWE star Jon Moxley (formerly known as Dean Ambrose) and letting him be himself rather than sticking to a WWE-style script.
AEW’s influence has also extended beyond the ring. The company has been a vocal advocate for wrestlers’ rights and has pushed for better pay and working conditions. This has led to changes in the wrestling industry as a whole, with other companies following AEW’s lead in treating their wrestlers better.
Looking to the future
So, what’s next for AEW? The company shows no signs of slowing down. On the contrary, AEW has been expanding into new markets, with shows planned for the United Kingdom, Canada, and Mexico.
One thing that sets AEW apart from other wrestling companies is its focus on long-term storytelling. AEW has been building up storylines and feuds that have been playing out over months, if not years. This has helped create a sense of investment among fans eager to see how these storylines will play out.
Another key factor in AEW’s continued success will be its ability to sign and develop new talent. AEW has already brought in some of the biggest names in wrestling, but the company will need to keep finding new talent to stay fresh and exciting. And while AEW faces challenges, it’s clear that the company has a bright future ahead of it. As wrestling fans, we should all be excited to see what AEW has in store.
