A former WWE Superstar wants to work for Tony Khan, sharing his interest following a recent behind-the-scenes experience at an AEW show. Maven, known for his achievements in the early 2000s and as a three-time Hardcore Champion, recently offered first-hand insight about the company’s working environment and leadership.
Maven Shares Impressions from AEW Backstage
Maven, the respected industry veteran, paid a visit to an AEW event last month, documenting his time backstage and interactions with talent for his YouTube viewers. His visit included an encounter with the company’s owner, Tony Khan, which happened organically as the evening’s tapings progressed.
While speaking on Cafe de Rene with Rene Dupree, Maven described his unplanned meeting with Tony Khan. The AEW boss was managing a packed schedule, overseeing the taping of both Ring of Honor and Collision. Despite this, Khan made time for Maven before returning to his duties on set.
“What wasn’t planned was if I was going to be able to talk to Tony at the end of the night. They were filming Ring of Honor in the beginning, then Collision live, and then Ring of Honor at the end. After Collision ended, before they filmed the second half of Ring of Honor, this contact told me Tony wants to meet with you. I was waiting for about 30 minutes.”
Maven was particularly struck by Khan’s approach with the wrestlers. He noted that Tony Khan personally checked on each performer after their matches, stepping away from his production station to ensure everyone was alright. This level of genuine concern for talent left a lasting impression on Maven, reinforcing his interest in working for AEW.
“I’m not kidding, Rene, every match that ended, every wrestler that came out of the ring, Tony got up from his Vince McMahon gorilla position, took his headphones off, and checked on every wrestler, and he was sincere about it. What a hell of a guy. That’s a guy I would work for. That’s a guy I would go to the mat for. When guys like MJF don’t leave, I see why. When Jon Moxley would rather work for him than WWE? I see why. Great environment.” – Maven
Reconnecting with Dustin Rhodes During the AEW Visit
During his backstage exploration at the AEW event, Maven unexpectedly ran into Dustin Rhodes, a former rival from his WWE days. The two shared a brief feud years ago, and their reunion backstage was heartfelt, showing the camaraderie that exists among wrestling veterans.
“What are you doing? Where the f**k have you been?” said Dustin Rhodes when he spotted his former rival backstage. – Dustin Rhodes
This encounter was captured in Maven’s vlog, giving fans a peek at genuine reunions and relationships behind the scenes in AEW.
Maven’s Experience Counters Backstage Misconceptions
Maven’s reflections offer a counterpoint to persistent rumors about low backstage morale in AEW. By describing an open, supportive, and engaging environment, Maven’s account highlights why prominent wrestlers like Jon Moxley and MJF choose to remain with the company. Maven’s firsthand impressions suggest AEW’s backstage culture is rooted in genuine leadership and respect, which could make it an attractive destination for performers considering a move. This experience has not only changed Maven’s own perception but may influence the views of others in the wrestling community as well.
