AEW President Tony Khan recently addressed the potential return of AEW Dark, the popular third weekly series that aired on YouTube before its cancellation in April 2023. Speaking on the Wrestfriends with Iridian Fierro podcast on WGN Radio Chicago, Khan expressed his enthusiasm and fondness for AEW Dark and its sister show, AEW Dark: Elevation, saying he would “love to do that” if it makes sense for AEW’s media partners, particularly Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), who now hold the major media rights for AEW programming[1][2][3].
AEW Dark and Elevation were originally conceived as supplementary platforms to showcase emerging and independent wrestling talent alongside the main AEW shows, Dynamite and Rampage. The series gained praise from fans and critics alike for spotlighting future stars and offering additional in-ring time for less-used wrestlers during AEW’s formative years and the pandemic era. However, with the launch of AEW Collision in the new WBD media deal, AEW made the strategic choice to sunset the YouTube shows to focus on televised content aired on WBD properties[1][3].
Khan reflected on the decision, noting it was a “conscious decision” tied to the media rights package and the importance of Collision, which he described as “such an important part of AEW TV every week.” Nonetheless, he stressed that AEW dark’s return remains a possibility if it aligns appropriately with WBD’s strategy and partnership goals. “I’m very open to their return if it ever makes sense for Warner Bros. Discovery,” Khan emphasized[1][2].
Since the termination of AEW Dark and Elevation, AEW has utilized its ownership of Ring of Honor (ROH) and its Honor Club streaming service as an alternative platform to highlight younger talent and wrestlers not regularly featured on Dynamite or Rampage. Additionally, AEW Collision on Saturday nights has expanded roster opportunities, balancing the company’s substantial lineup across multiple televised shows[2][3].
Sources close to AEW indicate that while there is clear enthusiasm backstage for reviving AEW Dark, any concrete plans must respect the priorities of the promotion’s evolving business relationships and broadcast strategy. A WWE insider familiar with media negotiations noted parallels between AEW’s current collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery and traditional network relationships, where media partners often influence scheduling and programming decisions to maximize audience reach and revenue[1].
Industry experts like Fightful have noted that AEW Dark’s YouTube platform offered unmatched accessibility and fan engagement, helping WWE and AEW compete in the digital media space. The show’s return could invigorate AEW’s developmental pipeline, especially as AEW’s roster grows and digital content consumption continues to expand. However, the challenge remains balancing free digital content with broadcast television partnerships that demand exclusivity or premium programming[2].
The wrestling community has reacted positively to Khan’s remarks on potential Dark revival, interpreting them as a hopeful sign that AEW still values its grassroots digital approach despite mainstream TV expansion. Fan forums and social media are abuzz with speculation on whether AEW will strike a media deal allowing Dark to return as a third weekly series, potentially incorporating live streaming innovations or hybrid digital/TV formats.
In conclusion, Tony Khan’s recent comments highlight AEW’s cautious but optimistic stance on resurrecting AEW Dark. While no official announcement has been made, sources close to the company reflect a widespread backstage desire to reinstate the beloved series, contingent upon alignment with Warner Bros. Discovery and AEW’s broader media strategy. Wrestling fans and industry observers are advised to watch this space closely for further developments.
Credits: This article is based on Tony Khan’s July 2025 interview with Iridian Fierro on WGN Radio, with additional insights from WrestlingNews.co, PWMania.com, Fightful, and reports from industry insiders.