AEW President Tony Khan has expressed willingness to bring back the company’s former YouTube programs AEW Dark and AEW Dark: Elevation, provided the move fits within AEW’s current media strategy and television partnerships. Khan’s openness to a revival highlights excitement among fans about the potential return of the popular web series.
Reflecting on AEW Dark’s Role in Showcasing Emerging Talent
In a recent interview with Iridian Fierro, Khan looked back fondly on AEW Dark’s contribution as a platform that helped launch the careers of new talent and independent wrestlers during AEW’s early years. He remarked,
“I would love to do that,”
adding,
“And I love doing AEW Dark. I have so many great memories. We’ve done hundreds of episodes of it, I love it.”
Khan’s remarks underline the emotional connection he holds with the show’s legacy.
Decision Hinges on Warner Bros. Discovery and Strategic Fit
Although Khan is enthusiastic about the idea, he made it clear that any comeback for AEW Dark or Elevation depends primarily on the approval and alignment with AEW’s media partner, Warner Bros. Discovery. With the introduction of AEW Collision on Saturday nights, which expanded AEW’s weekly broadcast lineup, Dark and Elevation were discontinued. Khan stated,
“For either or both of them to ever return, I just want to make sure it makes sense to bring AEW Dark back,”
emphasizing,
“If we bring AEW Dark back, I just want to make sure that whatever we do makes sense to our great media partners with Warner Brothers Discovery.”
Shifts in AEW Programming and Talent Exposure Since AEW Dark’s End
Since the YouTube series ended, Ring of Honor, also owned by Khan, has taken on a more prominent role in highlighting emerging wrestlers through its Honor Club streaming service. Additionally, AEW Collision has helped distribute screen time across the roster by providing more televised opportunities for wrestlers not frequently featured on Dynamite or Rampage. This shifting landscape shows AEW’s commitment to maintaining a platform for up-and-coming talent.
Fan Anticipation and the Future of AEW Dark
Fans appreciated AEW Dark and Elevation for giving greater exposure to fresh faces and delivering longer, studio-style matches beyond AEW’s main programming. While no official announcement has been made, Tony Khan’s statements suggest the possibility of an AEW Dark return remains under serious consideration. This potential revival could strengthen AEW’s talent development pipeline and expand content for wrestling fans.
