Last Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite episode, themed “September to Remember,” featured several prominent WWE superstars referenced on air, while behind the scenes, AEW President Tony Khan is reportedly facing mounting criticism related to crowd reactions and talent management. These intertwined developments are drawing significant attention in wrestling circles as AEW and WWE continue their competitive dance.

WWE Superstars Referenced During AEW September to Remember

A highlight from the show was a compelling face-to-face confrontation featuring AEW tag teams FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) and the duo of Adam Copeland and Christian Cage. During the exchange, Dax Harwood made a notable mention of several WWE tag teams they faced in their careers, reminding fans of their rich history and versatility. Harwood specifically name-dropped iconic WWE duos including Enzo & Cass, American Alpha, and DIY, emphasizing the quality opponents FTR has squared off against over the past decade[1][2].

This name-dropping not only serves to amplify the legitimacy and prestige of AEW’s tag team division but also serves as a nod to wrestling fans who closely follow both major promotions. The references provide historical context for FTR’s storied wrestling journey, from their days as The Revival in WWE to their current prominence in AEW.

The segment also built intense anticipation for the upcoming AEW All Out pay-per-view match in Toronto, where FTR will face Copeland and Christian Cage. AEW commentary team members Excalibur, Taz, and Bryan Danielson underscored the significance of the matchup, framing it as a clash of elite factions from two promotions[2][3].

Tony Khan Responds to Dynamite Crowd and Indie Talent Backlash

On the backstage front, Tony Khan has been reportedly displeased with the reaction of the Dynamite crowd at the Canada Life Place in London, Ontario. Sources familiar with the situation tell Fightful that Khan took notice of what he perceived as lukewarm or less enthusiastic responses from fans compared to previous events, which may be influencing how AEW books future shows in key markets[4][7].

Moreover, serious accusations have been levied against Khan by independent wrestling promoters and talent. Brandon of ECC Wrestling publicly accused Khan of withdrawing AEW wrestlers, such as The Outrunners, from scheduled indie dates, citing financial and contractual impacts on smaller promotions and wrestlers trying to rebuild their careers after pandemic setbacks. Brandon claimed that Khan’s decisions are damaging to the independent circuit and are part of broader frustrations about AEW’s stance on classifying its wrestlers as independent contractors while limiting their outside bookings[4].

Brandon stated:

“My brother and I have grinded for almost two years trying to get our life back from the hole they left us in and were finally able to return to wrestling and make a little money for ourselves to try and bounce back,” adding he apologizes on behalf of ECC Wrestling to fans disappointed by canceled appearances[4].

These allegations have sparked discussions about the balance between AEW’s commercial interests and its implied support for the broader wrestling ecosystem. Several insider podcasts and interviews have echoed concerns about AEW’s expanding control over talent and its consequences for indie promotions that depend on working with AEW-contracted wrestlers[6][7].

Industry Reaction and Context

According to WWE.com and multiple wrestling news outlets including Fightful and Wrestling Headlines, this is not the first time an AEW figure has referenced WWE talent on Dynamite, but the intensity of name-dropping during this show reflects an ongoing rivalry and mutual recognition between the promotions[1][3].

Meanwhile, Tony Khan’s reportedly mixed feelings about crowd enthusiasm may influence how AEW structures future tapings and pay-per-views in Canada and other markets with sensitive fanbases. The dynamic underscores the challenges of maintaining fresh, energized live shows that meet Khan’s high business standards[2][7].

Backstage insiders suggest that while AEW has grown exponentially, some of the company’s talent relations and indie promotion policies remain points of contention, which will likely continue to unfold in the coming months. Longtime industry observers assert that wrestling fans and professionals alike are closely monitoring how Tony Khan balances AEW’s position as a global brand with its roots in the independent wrestling world[4][7].

What to Expect Going Forward

AEW Dynamite’s continuing integration of WWE star mentions, combined with explosive backstage developments surrounding Tony Khan, signal that September and October 2025 will be pivotal months in professional wrestling. Fans should anticipate high-profile matches like the FTR versus Copeland & Cage showdown at AEW All Out and further public discourse regarding talent freedom and promotion ownership dynamics.

For wrestling news enthusiasts, staying tuned to multiple sources such as Fightful, Wrestling Headlines, and podcasts covering AEW and WWE will provide ongoing insight into this evolving landscape.

Sources: WWE.com, Fightful, Wrestling Headlines, Sportskeeda, EWrestlingNews, WhatCulture Wrestling Podcast (September 17, 2025 episode)