All Elite Wrestling (AEW) recently held a highly successful All In pay-per-view, highlighted by a notable tag team match featuring Will Ospreay and Swerve Strickland against The Young Bucks. This bout directly impacted the company‘s on-screen executive vice presidents (EVPs), as the authority roles were on the line. Unfortunately for Matt and Nick Jackson, their team—known as The Mogul Assassins—lost, resulting in them losing their executive privileges on AEW programming.
With the former International Champion Kenny Omega currently sidelined, AEW, under the leadership of Tony Khan, lacks visible authority figures within storylines. Given Khan’s history of employing numerous ex-WWE stars and veterans, speculation is growing about which former WWE legends might join AEW as on-screen EVPs to strengthen its leadership presence.
Could Bill Goldberg Fill an Executive Role in AEW?
WCW and WWE legend Bill Goldberg has been linked with AEW in the past, though he publicly expressed reluctance to join Tony Khan’s promotion. In a prior interview, Goldberg called AEW’s product “cheesy” and dismissed a potential run with the company, despite having discussions with Khan. Last weekend, Goldberg competed in his retirement match on WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, unsuccessfully challenging Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship. Post-match, Goldberg voiced disappointment with WWE’s handling of his final bout and the broadcast’s abrupt end to his farewell address.
Goldberg’s retirement arc has drawn comparisons to AEW’s storyline with Sting before Sting’s retirement. Reports indicate AEW once offered Goldberg a similar role to Sting’s, as a non-wrestling authority figure. Bringing Goldberg on as an on-screen executive would provide an ongoing storyline that might eventually culminate in one last match inside an AEW ring, providing both storyline depth and star power.
Mick Foley’s Potential Role as a Beloved Authority Figure
Mick Foley, one of WWE’s most iconic stars, is another candidate frequently mentioned to join AEW’s leadership on screen. Known for his innovative character work and intense in-ring style, Foley’s influence on today’s wrestling landscape is evident, especially within AEW’s product. The Hall of Famer has openly praised AEW in interviews, recognizing its role in improving wrestler compensation. Despite being under a WWE Legends contract, Foley could still appear on AEW television as an EVP.
Having previously served as WWE Commissioner and General Manager for both RAW and SmackDown, Foley’s experience fits perfectly with an executive authority role in AEW. His presence would also create opportunities for high-profile interactions with stars such as Jon Moxley and MJF, two wrestlers Foley has expressed interest in opposing in a marquee match, which could generate significant viewer interest.
Shane McMahon’s Link to AEW and Possible EVP Position
The wrestling world buzzed when news surfaced of Shane McMahon meeting privately with Tony Khan in Arlington last year, sparking hopes of the former WWE executive joining AEW. The rumors intensified after McMahon was seen with Mercedes Mone and The Young Bucks at an airport. However, reports later suggested Khan did not pursue a deal, possibly because Shane’s understanding of AEW’s operation was limited. Shane recently commented on his meeting with AEW:
“Had a meeting with AEW and wished them continued success. But it’s not WWE, it’s not the company that I helped build. But you never know what’s going to happen in this business.” — Shane McMahon
With the EVP roles open on AEW programming, Tony Khan could reconsider adding Shane McMahon to the roster as an on-screen authority figure. Shane’s familiarity with major wrestling operations and his recognizable presence might attract additional viewers and lend credibility to AEW’s leadership team. His inclusion would also create fresh storytelling possibilities for the weekly shows.
Significance of New EVP Signings for AEW’s Future
The recent vacancy of AEW’s on-screen EVP positions following the All In event has created a leadership void in the promotion’s storytelling. Bringing in respected WWE veterans such as Bill Goldberg, Mick Foley, or Shane McMahon would fill this gap, strengthening AEW’s authority narrative and adding star power. Each potential signing carries distinct advantages: Goldberg’s legendary status, Foley’s charisma and managerial experience, and Shane’s executive insight.
These moves could signal AEW’s intent to deepen its creative direction while enhancing its appeal to longtime wrestling fans familiar with these legends. For Tony Khan, integrating these figures as EVPs may also boost ratings and enrich AEW programming, maintaining momentum after its recent blockbuster shows. As the promotion looks forward, such additions could play a pivotal role in defining AEW’s leadership both on and off screen.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Tony Khan a billionaire?
A. Forbes states that Tony Khan’s father, Shahid Khan, has a wealth of over $12 billion. While Tony Khan’s exact net worth isn’t publicly shared, reports suggest he’s worth about $1.5 billion due to his ownership of AEW.
