The man behind AEW, Tony Khan, is reportedly diving deeper into the creative pool, and the results are starting to show both on-screen and backstage. According to Fightful Select, Khan has been “more in the weeds” when it comes to AEW’s storytelling recently, and judging by last week’s episodes of Dynamite and Collision, the guy’s been doing laps in those weeds.
Dynamite kicked off with Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay teaming up to destroy the Don Callis Family in a brawl that looked like it belonged in a Fast & Furious movie. Not to be outdone, Collision brought us a slugfest between Powerhouse Hobbs and Big Bill, along with a face-to-face segment between Mariah May and Toni Storm so good it could probably win an Emmy if wrestling shows weren’t still treated like a guilty pleasure. Oh, and Toni Storm brought back her “Timeless” persona, which is equal parts fabulous and completely unhinged.
Backstage, the vibe has shifted from “stressful startup” to “party with a purpose.” Wrestlers and crew were reportedly “pumped” about how well Collision came off last week, proving that if you give Powerhouse Hobbs and Big Bill enough steel chairs, magic happens.
The timing of Khan’s increased involvement is interesting. AEW’s creative brain trust already includes QT Marshall, Will Washington, RJ City, and others, but with Khan now leading the charge like a caffeine-fueled general, it’s clear his focus is back on wrestling. This may have something to do with the Jacksonville Jaguars wrapping their NFL season and head coaching drama, as well as Fulham F.C.’s Premier League campaign running on autopilot for now.
Whether this momentum leads to bigger ratings or just more locker-room karaoke sessions, one thing’s for sure—Tony Khan is back, baby. And the chaos he’s cooking up might just give AEW the creative burst it needs to dominate 2025.