During a recent interview with Bill Apter, Dutch Mantell, and Dr. Chris Featherstone of Sportskeeda, Jake Hager shared his insights on the transformations within AEW after Cody Rhodes’ exit in early 2022. Hager, reflecting on the “Cody Rhodes AEW departure impact,” expressed concern about the company’s direction and management.
Hager’s Critique of Tony Khan’s Booking and Storytelling
Hager criticized AEW owner Tony Khan’s booking style, stating that although Khan can generate excitement around big debuts, he struggles to develop enduring storylines. He remarked,
He can’t make himself a sandwich, let alone write a storyline that will last. He can spend a lot of money and make a big debut and make a lot of fireworks.
—Jake Hager
Leadership Shift and Impact on AEW’s Creative Process
According to Hager, Cody Rhodes played a significant role in AEW’s creative direction before his departure, and once he left, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Hager explained that following Rhodes’ exit, the company’s structure turned chaotic, with key figures like the Young Bucks and Kenny Omega still influencing their own narratives. Even Chris Jericho experienced communication difficulties, revealing that Tony Khan would sometimes delay responses for weeks.
Concerns Over AEW’s Priority Within Tony Khan’s Business Portfolio
Hager expressed uncertainty about whether AEW remains a main focus for Khan, given his involvement in multiple businesses. He highlighted a decline in organizational activities, noting the end of production meetings and the lack of timely show planning. He described the situation by saying,
It became a point to where either AEW is important or it’s not. It just seems like it was not to him because they stopped doing production meetings, they stopped doing anything to make the show timely. We would be waiting around till like 5:00 PM to find out what we’re doing that day.
—Jake Hager
Hager’s AEW Contract Rooted in Chris Jericho’s Support
Jake Hager also revealed that his position in AEW largely owes to Chris Jericho’s influence, rather than Tony Khan’s enthusiasm. Hager noted Khan’s preference for high-flying, flashy wrestling over grounded storytelling, saying,
The only reason why I got signed with AEW is because of Chris Jericho, so I’m very thankful for that. Tony wanted nothing to do with me because I was from the fed and he’s an indie darling guy, and I dare you to argue with me about that. He wants flips and hamburgers and hot dogs and not storylines.
—Jake Hager
Future Implications for AEW’s Creative Direction
The comments by Jake Hager underscore growing tensions and uncertainty within AEW’s creative environment following Cody Rhodes’ departure. His observations highlight ongoing challenges in leadership responsiveness and narrative development, raising questions about how AEW will adapt moving forward under Tony Khan’s stewardship. The company’s ability to regain a cohesive vision may determine its continued success in a competitive wrestling landscape.
