During a media call promoting the 2025 All Out pay-per-view, AEW President Tony Khan addressed Brody King wearing a shirt that said “Abolish ICE” on an episode of Dynamite. He highlighted that AEW encourages its performers to be genuine and to bring their real personalities to the screen, including controversial statements that reflect who they truly are.
AEW’s Emphasis on Authenticity Within Wrestling
Khan explained that AEW wrestlers are featured as their authentic selves, which includes Brody King and Hangman Page. He expressed respect for both wrestlers and emphasized that AEW is a wrestling organization focused on bringing fans from diverse backgrounds together through the sport. Khan believes that wrestling’s ability to connect different people is one of its most valuable qualities.
“Well, I think it’s really important to note that the wrestlers in AEW are presented very much as their authentic selves. In the case of Brody King and Hangman Page, that’s who those guys are, being themselves. And I respect Hangman Page. I respect Brody King. AEW is a wrestling organization, and we present wrestling. I want wrestling fans from all over the world, of all different perspectives. And I think that’s one of the things that makes wrestling really great, it brings people from all walks of life together.”
– Tony Khan, AEW President
Maintaining the Focus on Wrestling While Allowing Personal Expression
Khan further emphasized that while AEW supports wrestlers expressing their viewpoints, the main priority remains delivering high-quality wrestling. He hired Brody King and Hangman Page because of their skills and wants fans to come to AEW shows knowing the focus is on wrestling entertainment, regardless of differing opinions among the performers.
“One of the things I really believe that’s great about AEW is the wrestlers presenting their authentic perspective that’s true to them, but also the wrestling company being a place where all the fans can come and watch the wrestling, and that’s the focus of the show. I employ Hangman Page and Brody King because they’re awesome wrestlers, and that is the thing on the marquee: wrestling. When the fans come in, I want them to know that’s the focus of the show and that’s what we’re putting on. The wrestlers are themselves, and that’s part of what makes the show great. Whether everyone agrees with everything every wrestler says or not is not the point of the show to me. The point is that it’s a great wrestling show, like September to Remember or like All Out this Saturday afternoon. Thanks.”
– Tony Khan, AEW President
Implications for AEW’s Future and Wrestling Culture
Tony Khan’s defense of Brody King’s statement through his shirt underscores AEW’s commitment to authenticity and creative freedom. By allowing performers to express their identities openly, AEW aims to foster a wrestling environment where diversity of thought exists alongside compelling in-ring action. The approach reflects an evolving wrestling culture that balances entertainment with real-world perspectives, appealing to a broad range of fans.
