The Hurt Syndicate, made up of Bobby Lashley, Shelton Benjamin, and MVP, marked nine months since joining All Elite Wrestling, where they have rapidly become a dominant group within the organization. Lashley and Benjamin currently hold the AEW World Tag Team Championships, and the team recently expressed gratitude toward AEW President Tony Khan, emphasizing his significant influence on their careers and the broader wrestling world. The discussion took place during a Hurt Business Reunion Q&A, highlighting Tony Khan’s impact on AEW wrestling.
Shelton Benjamin Credits Tony Khan for Creating Opportunities
During the panel, Shelton Benjamin spoke openly about the positive changes Tony Khan has brought to the wrestling industry and the opportunities he provides for talent who might not have been recognized elsewhere.
“No matter what your opinion is, Tony has created a lane for people to be on TV, have gainful employment, and make a name for themselves.”
—Shelton Benjamin, Professional Wrestler
Benjamin, who returned to prominence with AEW after his departure from WWE in 2023, acknowledged Khan for rejuvenating his career and for supporting other wrestlers who previously struggled to find similar opportunities in major promotions.
“He’s given my career new life,”
—Shelton Benjamin, Professional Wrestler
“He’s given guys who probably wouldn’t even get a sniff at the other place a chance to actually be stars. That alone makes Tony a real special guy. Tony’s been nothing but great to me, and I think the other guys would say the same since we arrived.”
—Shelton Benjamin, Professional Wrestler
The Hurt Syndicate Grows Stronger in AEW
Since joining AEW, The Hurt Syndicate has expanded both its influence and roster. Recently, the group welcomed former AEW World Champion MJF, adding more momentum to their presence in the company. The alliance not only reflects the group’s rising dominance but also signifies Tony Khan’s strategy of breathing new life into established and emerging stars by building competitive stables that resonate with fans and elevate the AEW product.
The Importance of Tony Khan’s Leadership
Tony Khan’s approach to leadership has changed the trajectory for several prominent wrestlers, including Benjamin, Lashley, and MVP. By opening doors that were once closed in other organizations, Khan has enabled a new generation of talent to thrive under the AEW banner. As The Hurt Syndicate continues to build its legacy, Khan’s role as a supportive and innovative leader stands out as a driving force behind AEW’s ongoing evolution and the success stories within its ranks.
