AEW: The Rise of All Elite Wrestling

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All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has rapidly become one of the most talked-about and influential professional wrestling promotions in the world. Founded in 2019, AEW has quickly established itself as a major player in the industry, offering an alternative to the long-standing dominance of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). This article will delve into the history, key figures, programming, and impact of AEW on the professional wrestling landscape.

The Birth of AEW

AEW was born out of a perfect storm of circumstances in the wrestling world. Its inception can be traced back to several key events and figures:

The Elite

The core of AEW’s formation centers around a group of wrestlers known as “The Elite,” consisting of:

• Kenny Omega
• Cody Rhodes
• The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson)

These wrestlers had gained significant popularity in promotions like New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Ring of Honor (ROH), as well as through their YouTube series “Being The Elite.”

All In

In September 2018, Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks self-financed and promoted an independent wrestling event called “All In.” The show was a massive success, selling out the Sears Centre Arena in under 30 minutes and drawing nearly 12,000 fans. This event demonstrated the potential for a new wrestling promotion outside of WWE.

Tony Khan

The final piece of the puzzle was Tony Khan, son of billionaire Shahid Khan (owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team and Fulham F.C. soccer team). A lifelong wrestling fan, Tony Khan saw the potential in creating a new promotion and partnered with The Elite to form AEW.

AEW was officially announced on January 1, 2019, with its first event, “Double or Nothing,” taking place on May 25, 2019, in Las Vegas.

Key Figures in AEW

While AEW boasts a diverse and talented roster, several key figures have been instrumental in its success:

1. Tony Khan: As President and CEO, Khan is the primary decision-maker and financial backer of AEW.
2. Cody Rhodes: One of the original Executive Vice Presidents, Rhodes was crucial in establishing AEW’s initial identity. (Note: Rhodes left AEW in 2022 to return to WWE.)
3. The Young Bucks: Matt and Nick Jackson serve as Executive Vice Presidents and are central figures both in the ring and behind the scenes.
4. Kenny Omega: Another Executive Vice President, Omega is widely regarded as one of the best wrestlers in the world.
5. Chris Jericho: A veteran superstar, Jericho lent credibility to AEW in its early days and became its first World Champion.
6. Jon Moxley: Formerly known as Dean Ambrose in WWE, Moxley’s jump to AEW was a major coup for the new promotion.
7. Brandi Rhodes: Initially serving as Chief Brand Officer, Brandi played a significant role in shaping AEW’s image. (Note: She left AEW alongside her husband Cody in 2022.)
8. Bryan Danielson: The former WWE star’s arrival in AEW in 2021 was seen as a major shift in the wrestling landscape.
9. CM Punk: His return to wrestling with AEW in 2021 after a seven-year hiatus was one of the most talked-about moments in recent wrestling history.

AEW Programming

AEW has established a strong television presence with multiple shows:

1. AEW Dynamite

• Launched on October 2, 2019
• Airs weekly on TBS (previously on TNT)
• Serves as AEW’s flagship show

2. AEW Rampage

• Debuted on August 13, 2021
• Airs weekly on TNT
• One-hour show typically featuring three to four matches

3. AEW Dark and AEW Dark: Elevation

• YouTube exclusive shows
• Feature up-and-coming talent and additional matches not seen on TV

4. Pay-Per-View Events

AEW produces four major PPV events annually:

• Double or Nothing (May)
• All Out (September)
• Full Gear (November)
• Revolution (February/March)

Additionally, AEW has introduced special events like “Winter Is Coming” and “Fyter Fest” that air on regular TV but have a PPV-like feel.

AEW’s Impact on Professional Wrestling

Since its inception, AEW has had a significant impact on the professional wrestling industry:

1. Competition for WWE

For the first time in nearly two decades, WWE faces genuine competition in the North American market. This has led to changes in how WWE operates, including being more open to referencing other promotions and adjusting their talent retention strategies.

2. Alternative for Wrestlers

AEW provides another major platform for wrestlers to showcase their talents, offering competitive contracts and creative freedom. This has led to a more dynamic job market in professional wrestling.

3. Focus on In-Ring Action

AEW has placed a strong emphasis on match quality and in-ring storytelling, influencing the broader wrestling landscape to focus more on the athletic aspects of professional wrestling.

4. Collaboration with Other Promotions

Unlike WWE’s historically insular approach, AEW has shown a willingness to collaborate with other wrestling promotions. This has led to crossover events and talent exchanges with companies like NJPW, Impact Wrestling, and AAA.

5. Diversity and Inclusion

AEW has made efforts to present a diverse roster, prominently featuring wrestlers of various ethnicities, gender identities, and sexual orientations. This approach has been praised for its inclusivity and representation.

AEW’s Wrestling Style and Presentation

AEW has distinguished itself with a unique approach to professional wrestling:

1. In-Ring Style

• Emphasis on athletic, fast-paced matches
• Incorporation of various international wrestling styles
• Blend of traditional American pro wrestling with strong style and lucha libre influences

2. Storytelling

• Long-term storyline planning
• Use of social media and YouTube to advance narratives
• Mix of serious, character-driven stories and more comedic elements

3. Production

• Dynamic camera work
• Emphasis on live crowd reactions
• Use of picture-in-picture during commercial breaks to continue showing the action

4. Rankings System

• Implementation of a rankings system to determine title contenders
• Wins and losses matter in determining a wrestler’s position in the company

Challenges and Controversies

Despite its success, AEW has faced its share of challenges and controversies:

1. COVID-19 Pandemic

Like all live entertainment, AEW had to adapt to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including hosting shows without live audiences for a period.

2. Balancing Veteran and New Talent

AEW has faced criticism for its use of veteran wrestlers, with some arguing that it comes at the expense of pushing new, younger talent.

3. Women’s Division

The AEW women’s division has been a point of contention, with critics arguing it doesn’t receive enough focus or TV time compared to the men’s division.

4. Hardcore Matches

Some of AEW’s more violent matches have drawn criticism for being too extreme for mainstream television.

5. CM Punk Controversy

In 2022, a real-life altercation involving CM Punk and The Elite led to suspensions and significant behind-the-scenes turmoil.

The Future of AEW

As AEW continues to grow, several factors will likely shape its future:

1. Television Rights

The value of AEW’s next TV deal will be crucial in determining the company’s long-term financial stability and growth potential.

2. International Expansion

While primarily focused on the U.S. market, AEW has shown interest in expanding its international presence, particularly in the UK and Canada.

3. Talent Development

The success of AEW’s efforts to create new stars and develop young talent will be vital for its long-term sustainability.

4. Streaming and Digital Content

As media consumption habits change, AEW’s strategy for streaming and digital content will be important for reaching and retaining fans.

5. Competition with WWE

The ongoing competition with WWE will continue to shape AEW’s strategies and position in the wrestling landscape.

Conclusion

In just a few short years, All Elite Wrestling has made a significant impact on the professional wrestling industry. By offering an alternative product that emphasizes in-ring action, long-term storytelling, and a diverse roster, AEW has not only attracted a dedicated fanbase but has also influenced the broader wrestling landscape.

As the company continues to evolve, it faces both opportunities and challenges. The ability to develop new stars, maintain creative momentum, and navigate the changing media landscape will be crucial to its long-term success. However, with a passionate fanbase, a talented roster, and a willingness to innovate, AEW has positioned itself as a major player in professional wrestling for years to come.

Whether you’re a long-time wrestling fan or new to the world of professional wrestling, AEW offers a dynamic and exciting product that continues to push the boundaries of sports entertainment. As the wrestling world watches, All Elite Wrestling remains committed to its slogan of delivering “Change the World” caliber performances and storylines.