Tony Khan has firmly addressed the recent rumors concerning wrestler Wardlow’s involvement in the upcoming All Out event, putting doubts to rest. The focus on Tony Khan Wardlow rumors grew after Wardlow’s return from injury earlier this year at Forbidden Door in London, where he made a surprising comeback only to face another injury setback shortly afterward.
Following Wardlow’s brief return, there was widespread speculation about his status as the potential challenger to Adam Page’s AEW World Championship at All Out. Rumors suggested that the original plan had shifted, with Kyle Fletcher rumored to have replaced Wardlow as the leading contender. However, during the All Out media call, Tony Khan clarified the situation, stating that Wardlow was never intended to be Adam Page’s opponent at this event. Instead, The Protostar was always the contender of choice.
Khan further explained that after Fightful initially reported that Kyle Fletcher was a backup plan, the outlet corrected its story and reached out to Fletcher directly to clarify the misunderstanding. Khan also noted that if Wardlow had not been sidelined by injury, he would have played a significant role in the build-up to All Out on AEW’s television programming.
Chris Jericho’s Potential Return to AEW Excites Fans and Officials Alike
In related news, Tony Khan expressed hope and enthusiasm about the possible return of Chris Jericho to All Elite Wrestling. Jericho, who is widely speculated to be leaving AEW for WWE sometime in 2025, remains a pivotal figure in AEW’s history and present. Khan’s comments on the Torg And Elliott podcast reflected his strong desire to see Jericho back in AEW soon.
“Chris Jericho has been here since the very beginning. I have so much great respect for Chris Jericho. I would love to have Chris in AEW any time. We absolutely want Chris Jericho back in AEW, and hopefully soon. He’s been great with us and been with us since the first event. The very first AEW World Champion, and Chris is a huge part of the history in AEW and is still in great shape and a great wrestler.” Tony Khan, AEW President
Khan also emphasized the excitement that returns and surprises bring to wrestling shows, encouraging fans to stay tuned.
“Stay tuned to the show. That’s one of the reasons you watch the wrestling show, to see the returns.” Tony Khan, AEW President
Impact on AEW’s Title Scene and Future Events
The clarification from Tony Khan about Wardlow’s non-involvement in the All Out title match reassures fans about the event’s planned lineup and storytelling direction. It also underscores the importance of clear communication amidst ongoing speculation fueled by injuries and rapid changes in wrestling rosters. Wardlow’s injury has clearly affected his role in AEW’s major shows, but Khan’s remarks suggest the company remains committed to his future involvement once he recovers.
At the same time, the expressed eagerness to bring Chris Jericho back highlights AEW’s dedication to retaining top talent who have played foundational roles. These developments will likely shape AEW’s storytelling and fan engagement strategies as they proceed with All Out and beyond, maintaining momentum in a highly competitive wrestling landscape.
Tony Khan says that Kyle Fletcher was always the plan for AEW All Out, and BURIES the person who originally miscommunicated to us that it was Wardlow. He says whoever said that should get out of the wrestling business (!). Then credits us for correcting the story.
Wardlow was… pic.twitter.com/yzZpxAkJ0x
— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) September 18, 2025
