10 Burning AEW Criticisms Tony Khan MUST Ignore
1. "We Don't Know Who Wrestler X Is"
It's as simple as that.
Of course, the promoter should build up imported talents unfamiliar with a core audience that may not have the time nor inclination to seek out the wider wrestling world - and Tony Khan does precisely that!
Whether it's Excalibur's awestruck voice or a wrestler putting over their unexpected 'Forbidden Door' opponent, it's not some cold introduction. If you can't infer that they're a star, that's your fault. What more do you need to know about a talent there for a week for a fun, special attraction match?
Khan could have shown a highlight package of Bandido after the match graphic announcement, to get fans hyped on the idea of their minds being blown ahead of the match, but he built the ROH World title challenger and former champion as a threat in a short vignette before he made his debut on the show itself.
It is nice to watch professional wrestling and not be made to feel like an idiot. When someone like Satoshi Kojima worked All Out, it was a great match in and of itself that also rewarded the hardcore fan. The man's aura and in-ring skill sold itself.
"This man needs no introduction" is sometimes the best introduction.