Tony Khan resisting Britt Baker release has become the center of ongoing controversy in the wrestling world, as new reports reveal a deepening rift between AEW’s founder and its former Women’s World Champion. The situation has reportedly grown tense in the wake of rumors linking Britt Baker to WWE, raising questions about her future with AEW.
Britt Baker, widely known as “DMD,” stands out as an AEW Original. Her journey has seen her win the 2022 Owen Hart Cup and seize the AEW Women’s World Championship, yet her momentum has stalled in recent months. Baker’s last appearance was in November on Dynamite, where she triumphed over Penelope Ford in under nine minutes, marking just her fifth match of 2024. Injuries and backstage challenges have limited her appearances, while her status within the company has remained a point of frequent speculation among fans and observers. Although Baker and Tony Khan have maintained a publicly amicable friendship, details have emerged suggesting that internal challenges have tested their relationship.
Growing Tension Over Baker’s AEW Future
Recent cryptic updates from Baker on social media, coupled with increased chatter from insiders tied to WWE, have intensified speculation about her next move. According to Bodyslam, the strain between Baker and AEW has evolved over time and reached a point where negotiations are taking place behind closed doors.
A new report from Bodyslam.net claims that Baker is making active efforts to exit AEW. This move aligns with the ongoing rumors of the past year and echoes the uncertainty Baker has shared through her social channels. Those close to the situation suggest that Baker’s sense of belonging at AEW has eroded, with sources indicating that “bridges were burned” and the environment has shifted in a way that no longer favors her stay.
Company Concerns and WWE Speculation
The possibility of Baker moving to WWE has set AEW officials on edge, particularly as speculation swirls about her potentially signing and appearing for WWE in Pittsburgh or at Evolution II on July 13. Insiders reveal there is concern over the public announcement of any WWE deal, especially if coordinated with a high-profile show in her hometown, often nicknamed “Brittsburgh.” The prevailing belief among AEW management, led by Tony Khan, is to hold off on allowing Baker’s release until after the WWE Evolution II event concludes, hoping to avoid a dramatic public transition.
While there is no definitive word on how the standoff will be resolved, Bodyslam’s latest update makes it clear that reconciliation appears increasingly unlikely. Both AEW and Britt Baker now seem to have fewer options for a quiet or amicable parting.
If these backstage developments continue to intensify, AEW could soon face a significant turning point, as Tony Khan resists Britt Baker’s release amid growing WWE interest. The outcome may shape not only the future of Baker’s career but also influence ongoing talent relations and competition between AEW and WWE, particularly with high-profile events like Evolution II on the horizon.
