10 Secrets Behind The Rise Of AEW

1. A Simple Philosophy

Becoming All Elite
AEW

The notion that AEW is good because it does basic things that WWE doesn't is a very simplistic take that betrays much of the excellent storytelling Tony Khan has penned in just over two years.

The Hangman Page arc is so intricate and so against the grain of trad machismo that it has positioned the man on or above the level of every shocking folk hero new signing. The ambition, emotion, and slow-burn heft is exquisite. It is miles and miles removed from a mere sequence of clean wins.

But AEW has, nonetheless, used WWE as a simple How Not To guidebook to inform its success.

WWE scripts promos. AEW doesn't.

WWE imposes a strict ring style. AEW embraces range and expression.

WWE repeats matches ad nauseam. AEW doesn't, mostly, creating a sense of anticipation and gravity before and after the fact.

WWE isolates itself. AEW collaborates.

WWE pushes who they want to push. AEW listens to its base.

AEW isn't perfect - Becoming All Elite very much acknowledges this - but its success truly is an indictment of the competition it now battles on those terms.

If you enjoyed this AEW list, you'll very much enjoy my book Becoming All Elite: The Rise of AEW. The paperback version is available to pre-order right now at WhatCulture.BigCartel.com. Don't delay!

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Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!