In its fifth year, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) finds itself grappling with declining arena attendance, sagging TV ratings, and a perceived lack of momentum. Despite some notable highs, AEW’s current struggles highlight the challenges of maintaining relevance in a crowded wrestling marketplace.
Tony Khan, AEW’s founder and president, is both celebrated and criticized for his management style. His loyalty and personal connections with talent have created a strong backstage culture but may also have contributed to lapses in leadership, particularly during the tumultuous exits of stars like CM Punk and Cody Rhodes. While Punk’s departure was marred by controversy and internal conflict, Rhodes left amicably, citing creative differences and personal issues with Khan.
To regain its footing, AEW must embrace bold moves and fresh talent, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Here are five names—three wrestlers and two backstage influencers—who could serve as AEW’s much-needed spark:
1. Sami Zayn
Rumors suggest that Sami Zayn’s WWE contract is nearing its end, making him a tantalizing option for AEW. Zayn is one of the most beloved performers in wrestling, thanks to his charisma, in-ring storytelling, and ability to connect with audiences. His time in Ring of Honor (ROH) gives him an established rapport with AEW’s roster and fanbase.
While Zayn is currently thriving in WWE’s Bloodline saga, his arrival in AEW could inject energy and credibility into their programming. Zayn’s ability to create compelling narratives would be invaluable to a company struggling with continuity and storytelling.
2. Kevin Owens
Kevin Owens is another WWE mainstay with ties to AEW’s core, particularly the Young Bucks. Owens has achieved virtually everything in WWE, including Universal and Tag Team Championship reigns, and is currently embroiled in high-profile storylines alongside Sami Zayn, Cody Rhodes, and Randy Orton.
However, Owens has expressed a desire for creative freedom and new challenges. A jump to AEW would allow him to explore dream matches against stars like Kenny Omega, Jon Moxley, and MJF while lending his star power to AEW’s roster. His friendship with key AEW players might make this transition seamless.
3. AJ Styles
AJ Styles, “The Phenomenal One,” has nothing left to prove in WWE, having held world titles and headlined major events. His contract status has been a topic of speculation, and at this stage of his career, he might be open to exploring new opportunities.
Styles in AEW opens up a wealth of fresh matchups with Kenny Omega, Will Ospreay, and Jay White. His presence would add a level of prestige and legitimacy to AEW’s main event scene while appealing to lapsed fans seeking familiar faces.
4. Shane McMahon
While Shane McMahon as an on-screen talent may not resonate with AEW’s audience, his business acumen and experience could be a game-changer behind the scenes. Shane’s tenure in WWE gave him firsthand insight into running a global wrestling brand, and he could help Tony Khan address AEW’s organizational weaknesses.
Shane’s ability to bring structure to AEW’s creative and business processes could stabilize the company and ensure long-term sustainability. His presence would also signal a shift toward professionalism and balance in AEW’s management approach.
5. Paul Heyman
This may be the longest of long shots, but the mere thought of Paul Heyman joining AEW is tantalizing. Heyman is a creative genius with a proven track record of elevating talent and building captivating storylines. His work with ECW, SmackDown, and, most recently, Roman Reigns has cemented his status as one of the greatest minds in wrestling history.
While WWE would be unlikely to part with such a valuable asset, Heyman’s involvement in AEW would revolutionize the company’s creative process. His expertise in character development and storytelling would address AEW’s most glaring weaknesses and reinvigorate its product.
AEW has the talent and resources to succeed, but it needs a fresh infusion of star power and experienced leadership. Whether through marquee signings like Zayn, Owens, or Styles, or by bolstering its backstage infrastructure with figures like Shane McMahon or Paul Heyman, AEW has opportunities to reverse its fortunes.
The question is whether Tony Khan is willing to take bold steps and relinquish some control to ensure AEW’s growth and survival. In wrestling, as in life, the right talent at the right time can make all the difference.
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