Despite a significant rise in viewership for AEW’s Grand Slam Mexico event, Tony Khan has faced renewed criticism regarding declines in ratings and attendance, putting the spotlight on his leadership of All Elite Wrestling. The surge in audience numbers comes at a time when some wrestling figures continue to call out perceived shortcomings in the company‘s performance over time.
AEW’s Grand Slam Mexico Delivers Record Viewership
Earlier this week, All Elite Wrestling rolled out its latest special, broadcasting the Grand Slam event from Mexico for the first time. Taking place inside the renowned Arena Mexico, AEW showcased several of its major talents in a highly anticipated series of matches. The event drew a markedly higher television viewership compared to the company’s recent weeks.
This strong showing follows a sequence of major broadcasts for AEW in June, including the return of Fyter Fest and a new four-hour spectacle, Summer Blockbuster. The growing crowd numbers in venues and lively fan reactions have signaled upward momentum for Tony Khan’s promotion in the short term.
Disco Inferno’s Criticism Directed at Tony Khan
Despite AEW’s recent successes, Tony Khan remains under fire from some corners of the wrestling community. Wrestling veteran Disco Inferno has emerged as a vocal critic, taking to social media to denounce Khan’s handling of ratings and live attendance compared to previous years.
“Tony is the worst booker in history based on year over year data in ratings and attendance. If he had to answer to a boss he would have been fired a few years ago. Nobody with common sense can argue against this.”
—Disco Inferno, wrestling veteran
This criticism centers on claims that, even with recent wins, All Elite Wrestling’s long-term audience and ticket sales have fallen short of past highs. Disco Inferno argues that, under corporate oversight, Khan’s position might have been put in jeopardy due to these metrics.
AEW Continues Program Expansion and Event Highlights
In addition to Grand Slam Mexico, AEW’s ongoing programming push has helped keep the brand in the spotlight. With All In: Texas set for next month, the company is building on its established schedule with a blend of original and new televised specials. Fans have shown renewed excitement, especially in response to the expanded international reach of AEW events.
The Grand Slam Mexico card featured a total of six matches, offering a showcase of popular stars and unexpected twists. Matches included a memorable 14-person tag team contest, as well as high-stakes singles and championship bouts. Notable performers such as Adam Cole, Daniel Garcia, Brody King, Bandido, Templario, Atlantis Jr., Atlantis, Dax Harwood, Volador Jr., The Don Callis Family, Kazuchika Okada, Mark Briscoe, Mistico, MJF, Hologram, Mascara Dorada, Lio Rush, Ricochet, Mercedes Mone, Zeuxis, The Young Bucks, The Beast Mortos, Wheeler Yuta, Jon Moxley, Swerve Strickland, Will Ospreay, and The Opps all contributed to the event’s buzz.
Complete Match Results from Grand Slam Mexico
1. Adam Cole, Daniel Garcia, Brody King, Bandido, Templario, Atlantis Jr., and Atlantis defeated Dax Harwood, Volador Jr., and The Don Callis Family in a 14-person tag team bout.
2. Kazuchika Okada secured victory over Mark Briscoe.
3. Mistico won against MJF via disqualification.
4. Hologram triumphed over Mascara Dorada, Lio Rush, and Ricochet in the 4 Million Pesos High-Flying 4-Way.
5. Mercedes Mone toppled Zeuxis to win the CMLL World Women’s Championship.
6. The Young Bucks, The Beast Mortos, Wheeler Yuta, and Jon Moxley defeated Swerve Strickland, Will Ospreay, and The Opps in a 10-person tag match.
What Lies Ahead for Tony Khan and AEW
With the aftermath of Grand Slam Mexico still unfolding and anticipation building for All In: Texas, Tony Khan and his creative team face ongoing scrutiny amid successes and setbacks. The outcome of their next moves could impact both audience trust and the company‘s trajectory as AEW continues to evolve in a competitive pro wrestling landscape.
