8 Things That Could Trigger AEW’s Downfall

4. A Subpar Television Contract

Tony Khan
AEW.com

Similar to the previous entry, failure to secure a television contract that at least a minor increase on the current $45 million/year deal may put AEW in a tricky situation.

AEW's roster has expanded immensely over the past few years. Names like CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, and Adam Cole won't have come cheap, and MJF won't be the only day-one wrestler who is now a bigger deal than when he walked through the door, giving him the power to demand a bigger salary. Elsewhere, AEW's upcoming console game appears to be an over-budget money-sink, contributing to the promotion being in the red for its first year of operations.

Khan is likely holding off on certain major decisions before knowing how much AEW will be bringing in through its next television deal. Should said deal fall short of initially positive projects, tough decisions may need to be made - and a tightening of the purse strings could be necessary.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.