Tony Khan continues to navigate the complex landscape of professional wrestling promotion management, balancing the growth of AEW with the strategic development of Ring of Honor. The AEW President recently opened up about his long-term vision for ROH, revealing insights into potential rebranding strategies and the company’s positioning within the broader wrestling ecosystem.
The “AEW Ring of Honor” Rebranding Strategy
Khan has previously floated the idea of rebranding ROH as “AEW Ring of Honor,” particularly when discussing potential television opportunities with Warner Bros. Discovery. This strategic consideration reflects the ongoing challenge of maximizing ROH’s brand value while maintaining its unique identity.
The rebranding concept emerged from Khan’s analysis of how ROH could benefit from AEW’s established market presence. By potentially linking the two brands more directly, Khan sees opportunities to leverage AEW’s success for ROH’s growth.
Current Development Efforts and Future Opportunities
In a recent WFAA interview, Khan emphasized the substantial work already invested in ROH’s development. His comments reveal a measured approach to the promotion’s evolution:
“I still think there’s a great chance to develop ROH. We really have done a lot of work to develop ROH. They are unique companies, structurally.”
Khan acknowledged the merit of closer brand integration while explaining his current positioning strategy. He maintains that ROH retains significant potential for major opportunities, stating that he believes they still have “a chance to strike at great opportunities.”
Media Rights Deals Reshaping Wrestling Landscape
The AEW President highlighted how his company’s media rights agreements have fundamentally altered the wrestling industry’s financial landscape. These deals have created ripple effects that benefit not just AEW, but also impact ROH’s potential value.
“AEW has made huge media rights deals that have changed the landscape for all wrestling companies, including ROH, and any deal we do, it’s got to make really good sense for everyone involved, including us at ROH and also AEW.”
This strategic approach demonstrates Khan’s commitment to ensuring that any future deals serve the interests of both promotions while maintaining their distinct identities.
Championship Excellence as Foundation
Khan concluded his remarks by spotlighting ROH’s current championship landscape, particularly praising the work of Athena and Bandido. The ROH Women’s World Champion Athena is approaching a remarkable 1,000-day milestone with her title reign, while Bandido holds the ROH World Championship.
“Right now, I think we’ve done a great job positioning the company as leaders, with leading champions like Athena and Bandido.”
This championship strength provides a solid foundation for whatever direction Khan ultimately takes with ROH’s future development.
The Road Ahead
Khan’s strategic vision for ROH reflects the complex balance between brand independence and corporate synergy in modern wrestling. His approach suggests patience and careful consideration rather than rushed decisions about the promotion’s future.
As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve and media rights deals reshape the industry, Khan’s next moves with ROH could significantly impact how independent promotions integrate with larger wrestling entities. Will the “AEW Ring of Honor” rebrand become reality, or will Khan find another path to maximize ROH’s potential while preserving its legendary legacy?
