Tony Khan is committed to keeping All Elite Wrestling (AEW) a privately owned company, ensuring its long-term stability and independence. In a recent interview with CNBC Sport during Radio Row in New Orleans, the AEW CEO and co-founder made it clear that he has no plans to take the company public. Instead, Khan envisions AEW as a family-run business that he hopes to pass down to his future children.
At 42 years old, Khan’s approach sets AEW apart in the wrestling industry. While WWE, now owned by TKO Group Holdings, continues to expand under a public business model, AEW is taking a different path. Khan believes that maintaining private ownership gives AEW more creative and financial control, allowing the company to preserve its core vision while ensuring long-term stability for its wrestlers, employees, and fans.
“I want to keep AEW as a family business,” Khan stated during the interview. “I think there’s a lot of value in maintaining creative and financial control. My goal is to eventually hand it down to my kids when that time comes.” Although Khan does not yet have children, his long-term vision underscores his dedication to AEW’s future.
Since its founding in 2019, AEW has grown significantly, becoming a prominent competitor in professional wrestling. One of its biggest achievements has been securing a media deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, expanding its television and streaming presence. This partnership has allowed AEW to reach a global audience, further solidifying its position as a major player in the industry.
Khan’s decision to keep AEW private is particularly notable given the business trends in professional wrestling. WWE has embraced mergers and acquisitions to fuel its growth, while AEW is focusing on longevity and sustainability. By keeping ownership private, Khan retains full control over AEW’s creative direction, branding, and overall company culture.
“It’s about building something that lasts,” Khan emphasized. “I want AEW to be here for generations, and I think this is the best way to do that.” His commitment to AEW’s independence suggests that the company will remain a strong, innovative force in the industry for years to come.
For AEW fans, Khan’s dedication means that the company will continue to deliver high-quality wrestling without the external pressures that come with being publicly traded. As professional wrestling evolves, AEW’s independence may prove to be one of its greatest advantages. With major TV deals in place and an ever-growing fanbase, AEW’s future looks bright—and Khan appears determined to lead it on his own terms.
