Brody King publicly thanked Tony Khan for allowing wrestlers within All Elite Wrestling (AEW) to express their personal beliefs freely. Ahead of AEW’s All Out event on September 20, King’s appreciation highlighted how AEW’s environment contrasts with other wrestling promotions, embracing authenticity as a core value. This freedom enabled King’s standout moment wearing an “Abolish ICE” t-shirt during Grand Slam Mexico, an act that sparked conversation and goodwill more broadly.
During a press conference following All Out, King spoke about the significance of having the ability to use one’s platform to voice important issues. This openness, he emphasized, comes from AEW’s leadership, particularly Tony Khan, who has prioritized creating a supportive space for wrestlers without compromising the company’s standing.
Tony Khan’s Commitment to Authenticity in AEW
At a media call prior to AEW’s All Out, Tony Khan was asked by Jonathan Ore of CBC about AEW’s distinct positioning compared to WWE. While WWE’s leadership presents itself as a non-partisan brand, it is closely associated with political figures such as Donald Trump and the U.S. government. Khan responded by underscoring the importance of allowing talent to be their true selves. He stressed that while wrestling shows remain a top priority, creating an environment where wrestlers feel comfortable expressing their identities is equally vital.
Brody King on Using Wrestling as a Platform for Change
Brody King’s actions and words reflect a larger commitment within AEW to social issues. At Grand Slam Mexico, King’s choice to wear the “Abolish ICE” slogan translated into a series of shirts sold to benefit The Local Hearts Foundation, indicating a tangible connection between wrestling and activism.
“It’s really important to be able to express your voice with whatever platform you have in life. To have a boss who lets that happen. I don’t think any of us are going out there and doing anything that would damage the reputation of the company or damage the reputation of Tony. Everything that people like myself, Hangman, or others who have said something in the past or done is all for the betterment of humanity in general. It’s amazing to be part of this company, and thank you, Tony, for letting us be the way we are.”
— Brody King, AEW World Tag Team Champion
King also recently defended the AEW World Tag Team Championship alongside Bandido at All Out, retaining their titles in a thrilling ladder match against The Young Bucks, JetSpeed, and the team of Hechicero and Josh Alexander.
AEW’s Distinctive Approach Compared to WWE
AEW’s open stance on personal and political expression highlights a shift in wrestling company culture. Unlike WWE, where leadership’s political ties are more visible, AEW under Khan endorses personal authenticity while maintaining the quality of its wrestling product. This approach has resonated with fans and wrestlers who seek to blend passion with performance.
Additional Developments in Professional Wrestling
AEW’s All Out event also marked several noteworthy moments. Jack Perry reunited with Luchasaurus, reforming the Jurassic Express after a prolonged absence. Meanwhile, in WWE, Toni Storm’s impressive capture of the Women’s Championship for a record fourth time ended unexpectedly at All Out, raising questions about the future direction of the women’s division.
Further shifts within the wrestling world include Vince McMahon’s resignation from his executive chairman role at TKO Group earlier in 2024, alongside ongoing storylines involving major talents like Drew McIntyre and John Cena, as well as notable appearances by Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss ahead of WWE Wrestlepalooza.
The Impact of Brody King’s Stand and AEW’s Inclusive Culture
Brody King’s gratitude toward Tony Khan reflects the larger significance of AEW’s policy promoting freedom of expression among its roster. In a sport often scrutinized for political neutrality or corporate control, AEW’s model allows wrestlers to advocate for social issues without fear of retribution. This stance may influence how wrestling companies cultivate talent relationships and engage with their audiences moving forward.
As AEW continues to grow and attract attention, the company’s support for authentic voices could set a precedent for wrestlers balancing their professional roles with personal convictions. Fans and industry watchers will likely observe how this progressive approach shapes wrestling narratives and company culture in the years ahead.
