Tony Khan gives a truly bizarre comparison when discussing his competition in the wrestling world.
Established in 2019 by Khan, All Elite Wrestling has established itself as the second-biggest professional wrestling promotion in the world. With 3 weekly TV shows, a return to Wembley Stadium later in the year and some of the biggest free agents recently signed to the roster, AEW has come a long way in just 5 years. Still having an underdog mentality, Khan is passionately fighting to make AEW all it can be despite issues with attendance and ratings.
Also an executive of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Khan was frequently seen during the 2024 NFL draft. Following the events that took place on a recent episode of Dynamite, which saw Tony Khan attacked by The Elite and Jack Perry, Khan appeared on the show wearing a neck brace throughout. When asked about his professional wrestling promotion, few would have predicted what came next.
Appearing in an interview on the NFL Draft, Khan stated that AEW were like Pepsi in the soft drinks market. As many expected Khan to compare WWE to Coca-Cola, he instead compared the number one promotion to former film producer Harvey Weinstein:
“AEW, we’ve been doing this for five years. We are the most successful sports startup since the AFL pre-merger. There has not been a challenger brand that has gained as much market share as AEW in many many years. We are like the Pepsi of pro wrestling.”“And we’re up against a really evil juggernaut. WWE is our competitor, that’s who we’re facing. AEW like the Pepsi of pro wrestling, WWE’s like the Harvey Weinstein of pro wrestling, and I’m really proud of what we do down here.”
Weinstein was accused of sexual abuse as part of the #MeToo movement. His conviction was recently overturned. Former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon resigned in January 2024 over allegations of sexual misconduct.
How Did Everyone React To The Tony Khan Comments?
The presenters were understandably caught by surprise by Khan’s comments and quickly moved on before Khan could elaborate any further. A follow-up report from Fightful Select adds that the NFL Network were happy with the interview despite Khan’s controversial line. Additionally, the NFL wanted Khan on the show due to the publicity he had gained from the angle itself and Khan commiting with the angle by wearing the neck brace.
H/t to Inside The Ropes.
