Former WWE wrestler Tom Pestock, better known as Baron Corbin, stirred up conversation on Twitter by defending AEW President Tony Khan’s practice of extending wrestlers’ contracts to account for time missed due to injuries. Responding to criticism of Khan’s handling of talents like Rey Fenix, Pestock offered a detailed perspective on the nuances of wrestling contracts and workers’ rights, making it clear he was not angling for a job but instead contributing to an important industry discussion.
The debate began when a fan criticized Khan for not releasing Fenix, arguing that keeping him under contract without utilizing him actively was unfair. Pestock, however, countered with a pragmatic take, emphasizing the mutual obligations of contracts. “If you sign a contract, you honor it,” he wrote. “Would it have been okay if Tony didn’t pay him while he was hurt or out of action? The answer is no, because Tony signed the contract as well.”
This set off a back-and-forth where Pestock clarified misconceptions about how contracts work in wrestling promotions like AEW, WWE, and Impact Wrestling. He pointed out that adding time to contracts to account for injuries is standard practice across the industry and not unique to AEW.
“Everyone who gets hurt gets injury time. Doesn’t matter if it’s WWE, AEW, or TNA. That’s part of it,” Pestock explained.
Addressing Misconceptions About Fenix and Worker Rights
Several fans raised concerns about other aspects of Fenix’s situation, including merchandise sales and restrictions on working independent shows. Some suggested that taking down Fenix’s merchandise from AEW’s store was a petty move meant to freeze him out. Pestock countered by saying that Fenix is free to sell his own merchandise, implying the wrestler still has avenues for income while under contract.
Another point of contention was whether AEW actively restricts wrestlers from working elsewhere. While some fans claimed AEW talent like Ricky Starks had been barred from certain independent appearances, Pestock suggested that Fenix might have the option to work elsewhere if he chooses. “Correct, he is not prohibited from running other shows,” Pestock responded to a fan. However, he acknowledged that ultimately only Tony Khan and Fenix know the full details of their agreement.
On Setting Precedents and Workers’ Options
When asked whether Khan’s reluctance to release Fenix stemmed from a desire to avoid setting a precedent, Pestock did not directly confirm but seemed to dismiss the idea that Fenix’s departure would negatively impact AEW. He also speculated that the situation might not be as one-sided as it appears.
“Maybe Fenix doesn’t want to work. Only him and Tony know that,” he remarked.
Despite his defenses of AEW and Tony Khan, Pestock maintained an objective stance, describing his contributions to the discussion as purely conversational. Responding to accusations of “fishing for work” he quipped, “I don’t want a job, but nice try. I’m cool, trust me.” Pestock also admitted uncertainty about whether he would ever sign another wrestling contract, leaving the door open for future opportunities without committing to a return.
Tom Pestock Faces Josh Barnett in GCW Debut at The People vs. GCW (1/19)
Insights on Wrestling Contracts and Workers’ Rights
The conversation highlighted Pestock’s interest in the legal and ethical dimensions of wrestling contracts. He emphasized the importance of honoring agreements while acknowledging the frustration fans and wrestlers might feel in certain situations. His commentary underscored a larger debate about the balance between protecting workers’ rights and maintaining the integrity of contracts in the high-stakes world of professional wrestling.
While the specifics of Rey Fenix’s situation remain unclear, Pestock’s perspective offered valuable insights into industry practices and shed light on the complexities of balancing business interests with individual freedoms in wrestling.
