In recent years, Tony Khan‘s booking decisions affecting AEW top talent have become a focal point as several gifted athletes have yet to seize main event opportunities. Despite AEW’s impressive roster, a handful of stars remain underutilized, leaving questions about their potential for future elevation.
High-Caliber AEW Performers Still Awaiting Spotlight
AEW’s lineup features top-tier performers whose global appeal is clear, yet not all have reached headline status within the promotion. While many have risen quickly, several compelling competitors remain on the cusp, still seeking their chance to join the ranks of AEW’s marquee names.
Tony Khan, as the President and CEO of AEW, has faced scrutiny over some of his recent choices regarding talent management. These decisions, according to many observers, are at the core of the company’s difficulties in fully maximizing its potential during pivotal periods. Notably, a number of individuals with strong in-ring abilities and established personas have seen limited opportunities, sparking debate about lost momentum and missed potential for AEW’s continued growth.
Julia Hart: Untapped Potential in the Dark Arts
Julia Hart has stood out in the AEW women’s division for her unique character work and magnetic presence, often captivating crowds with her enigmatic style and charisma. Once a prominent figure within the House of Black, Hart carved out a distinctive persona that resonated with fans of All Elite Wrestling.
Her successful run as TBS Champion marked a significant milestone, but recent months have seen her momentum fade. Despite creative efforts, such as vignettes teasing her return, those storylines have yet to produce lasting results. The current direction suggests Tony Khan should reconsider and reinvest in Hart’s creative trajectory, ensuring her talents and dark appeal are brought to the fore and positioned among the division’s elite.
PAC: Aggression Awaiting a Main Event Push
PAC transitioned from his past as WWE’s exuberant Neville to embrace a fiery, intense style that gained him noticeable momentum in AEW. His early accolades hinted at bigger things ahead, showcasing strength, relentless aggression, and a natural main event presence.
However, despite early title reigns, PAC’s run at the top stalled. His credentials suggest he deserves renewed attention at the highest level. Facing established names like Kenny Omega or Will Ospreay could spark a resurgence for PAC and bring him back into serious championship contention, restoring him as a force within AEW’s world title scene.
Athena: Dominance in ROH Yet to Transition to AEW
Athena’s unprecedented 900-plus day reign as ROH Women’s World Champion rivals some of the most impressive records in modern wrestling, drawing favorable comparisons to the likes of Roman Reigns’ remarkable tenure in the industry. Her achievements point to a competitor ready for a larger stage.
Despite her reputation, Athena remains mostly absent from AEW’s marquee storylines. There is a growing call for Tony Khan to capitalize on her historic run by entering her into programs with stars such as Toni Storm or Mercedes Mone. Integrating Athena more deeply into AEW programming and awarding her with major victories could solidify her status as a premier draw within the company.
Daniel Garcia: Charisma and Skill Needing Main Event Recognition
Daniel Garcia emerged as a spirited and entertaining performer, quickly connecting with audiences and notching significant accomplishments such as capturing the TNT Title. Still, his journey to the very top has been slowed, leaving some spectators to wonder if his full potential has yet to be realized.
With evident talent and a dynamic presence, giving Garcia an opportunity to vie for—and potentially hold—the AEW World Title would provide a new face in the main event, offering audiences a fresh story arc while rewarding Garcia’s dedication and popularity with a substantial platform.
Jay White: International Star Awaiting AEW Breakthrough
Jay White earned global renown in Japan as “The Switchblade,” leading The Bullet Club and serving as a headline attraction internationally. Since joining AEW, White has yet to anchor major rivalries, and his considerable abilities have not been consistently showcased in top-tier storylines within the Jacksonville-based promotion.
For White to truly shine on the AEW stage, positioning him in a heated feud against one of the promotion’s top names would offer a genuine breakthrough moment. This path could lead to White becoming AEW World Champion, leveraging his proven status as a marquee talent to help propel AEW’s profile even further.
The Road Ahead for AEW’s Underutilized Talent
The continued growth of All Elite Wrestling depends on recognizing and effectively harnessing the abilities of stars such as PAC, Athena, Julia Hart, Daniel Garcia, and Jay White. Adjustments to Tony Khan’s booking approach may not only reverse the company’s current shortcomings but also unlock new eras of excitement, fresh competition, and compelling narratives for both performers and fans. Should these athletes be granted main event opportunities, AEW could redefine its landscape and secure its reputation as a home for both rising and established wrestling sensations.
