AEW CEO Tony Khan Teases State‑Sponsored Mega‑Shows: Could AEW Go Head‑to‑Head with WWE’s Saudi Spectacle?

Could AEW soon step into WWE’s Saudi‑style arena with state‑backed mega‑events? AEW President and CEO Tony Khan has thrown fans a huge teaser: he’s not ruling it out. In a recent sit‑down with WFAA, Khan confirmed that AEW remains open to launching government‑backed events abroad—if the deal is right. This bold pivot hints at AEW’s ambitions to compete on the world stage with the same heavyweight strategy WWE has mastered.

Global Expansion in Full Swing

Tony wasn’t just talking Saudi beltways—he revealed AEW is doubling down internationally. The company already scored major wins in Australia and Mexico this year and has firm plans to solidify its presence in the UK and Canada. Expect major AEW stadium shows like the upcoming All In London and All Out Toronto.

Saudi‑Style Deals? It All Boils Down to & Strategy

When asked if AEW would enter state‑funded territory similar to WWE’s lucrative Saudi Arabia contract, Khan answered succinctly: “It depends on the situation… a deal that makes sense for that territory and especially for us here at AEW.” That cautious optimism signals AEW won’t follow WWE blindly—but they won’t be left on the sidelines either.

Why This Could Be a Game‑Changer

• Revenue Power Play: WWE earns hundreds of millions annually from its Saudi partnership. AEW could tap a similar vein—if the numbers stack up.
• Brand Standing: AEW is carving out its niche. A state deal would put it in direct competition with WWE on the global promotional stage.
• Creative Control: Khan’s careful “it depends” stance suggests AEW will prioritize creative freedom, unlike some critics’ concerns over WWE’s Saudi alliances.

Not Just Talk: AEW’s Ongoing Push

AEW’s historic international foray started with Grand Slam events in Australia and Mexico. They also co‑promoted Wrestle Dynasty in Japan and are doubling down with high‑profile shows in Canada and the UK. AEW isn’t tip‑toeing overseas—they’re committing to global domination.

What Fans Should Know

1. AEW isn’t chasing state‑sponsored deals at all costs—they need to make strategic sense.

2. Their international map is aggressively expanding: expect stadium quality events from London to Toronto and beyond.

3. With AEW’s streaming deals and rising TV ratings, the company has the infrastructure to support bigger dreams.

Final Take

If AEW jumps into state‑sponsored shows, it would mark a bold statement in the pro wrestling arms race. But Tony Khan’s tone suggests he won’t just follow WWE’s recipe he’ll adapt it. That balance of ambition and strategy could make or break AEW’s hunt for global prominence.