On a recent episode of his podcast What Happened When, AEW commentator Tony Schiavone shed light on some memorable Don Callis AEW backstage stories, highlighting the unique dynamic they share on and off camera. Schiavone also discussed how subtle gear choices help wrestlers like Bret Hart and others stand out.
Don Callis’ Comedic Tactics Behind the Scenes
During their time together in AEW, Schiavone revealed how his relationship with Don Callis evolved from professional interaction to genuine friendship. The two found common ground, often staying in touch even outside of work, which helped foster an easy camaraderie during broadcasts. Schiavone recounted incidents at the commentary desk where Callis would try to break his composure, particularly during promos that didn’t always land as strongly as intended.
“Is Don Callis not the most one of the most hateable guys ever?… I’ve mentioned this before on the program, Don and I become very good friends. And we just really get along and hit it off, and we do even talk, phone calls back and forth, when we’re not working. And he just makes me laugh. There’ll be times that there’ll be a promo. Let’s say it’s not the best promo. Not everybody does a great promo, and not all the promos that air are good ones. I think we all can admit that, right? And if he’s at the desk with me and that promo is going on, he will stare at me the entire time. And I’ll look at him, and I’ll look away, and I’ll look back, and he’s still staring at me, and he just he tries to make me laugh. So yeah, I think that’s what it is. And I have so much respect for him as a heel, too.”
—Tony Schiavone, AEW Commentator
These anecdotes not only provide a glimpse into AEW’s off-camera atmosphere but also showcase how strong professional relationships can translate into entertaining moments for viewers.
The Importance of Distinctive Gear in Wrestling
Expanding his commentary, Schiavone talked about the lasting impact of individual style in wrestling. He emphasized how wrestlers like Bret Hart, Taz, and Mr. Perfect made conscious decisions about their gear and color schemes to ensure they were memorable to audiences.
“That was pretty smart, because no one else would. And I think Brett knew that. That, ‘Hey, if I wear pink, no one else is going to wear it.’ And those are things that — you know, your outfit and your color scheme. And Taz was smart about this, and he was obviously, Mr. Perfect was smart about this. These are just small things that add up to important stuff.”
—Tony Schiavone, AEW Commentator
This attention to visual identity has helped many wrestlers—like Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect—to develop a lasting legacy, capturing the audience’s attention not just through performance but also with their distinctive appearance.
Significance for Wrestling Fans and the Industry
Tony Schiavone’s insights on Don Callis AEW backstage stories and wrestler individuality offer fans a closer look at the personalities and choices that influence both in-ring entertainment and behind-the-scenes interactions. These reflections highlight the blend of humor, professionalism, and strategic thinking that continues to keep AEW and the wrestling world vibrant and engaging.
