n an exclusive interview with Mark O’Brien for Bodyslam.net, wrestling veteran Jimmy Jacobs reflected on Tony Khan’s leadership and AEW’s influence on the industry. He credited Khan with reshaping professional wrestling, improving pay standards, and creating new opportunities for talent.
Tony Khan’s Leadership and AEW’s Growth
Jacobs highlighted Khan’s deep commitment to AEW, emphasizing his awareness of how company decisions impact wrestlers and staff. He praised Khan for fostering an environment where talent can thrive and for significantly expanding job opportunities within wrestling.
“Tony takes that seriously—so many people’s jobs revolve around what he does.”
Jacobs noted that AEW’s rise has made it one of the best times to be a pro wrestler, with more opportunities and better financial stability than in decades past.
AEW’s Influence on Wrestler Pay and Competition
According to Jacobs, AEW’s presence in the industry has contributed to higher pay for wrestlers. He suggested that WWE adjusted its salary structure in response to AEW’s emergence, indirectly benefiting talent across both promotions.
“WWE raised their pay rates right around the time AEW started… I’d guess AEW had something to do with it.”
By providing a viable alternative to WWE, AEW has increased competition, pushing both companies to offer better contracts and more financial security for wrestlers.
Tony Khan’s Creative Direction
Jacobs described Khan as having a clear creative vision while allowing his team to refine ideas and execute them effectively. He stressed the importance of controlled information flow in AEW’s creative process, preventing leaks and ensuring well-planned storytelling.
“Tony has ideas, and I help organize them so the right people get the right information at the right time.”
AEW’s Lasting Legacy
Jacobs believes AEW’s impact extends beyond its own success, crediting Khan with transforming the wrestling landscape by offering wrestlers more financial and creative freedom.
“Tony really pushed AEW into being a place where talent could actually thrive.”
He sees Khan’s leadership as a key factor in making AEW a true alternative to WWE, giving wrestlers more control over their careers and fans a fresh, competitive product.