Paul Wight believes that so-called “smart fans” often miss the point when they criticize wrestling’s need for competition, calling their arguments “complete nonsense.” Speaking to Scott Johnson on News4JAX’s Going Ringside, the AEW commentator emphasized that having multiple strong wrestling promotions benefits everyone involved.
Wight explained that viable competition is crucial because if only one brand exists, wrestlers have no alternatives if things don’t go well—whether due to a failed gimmick, poor management relations, or other issues. “If there’s only one brand in town, it’s not good for the talent,” he said. Having options allows performers better negotiating power and companies to thrive through healthy competition, ultimately creating more opportunities and entertainment for fans.
Discussing the industry’s landscape, Wight noted a clear momentum shift towards AEW after years of WWE’s dominance, which was intentionally maintained by Vince McMahon through financial muscle aimed at squashing rivals. However, the Khan family, passionate about wrestling and undeterred by WWE’s legacy, gradually built AEW from the ground up. Wight praised AEW’s growth, highlighting their improved product, the successful TV deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, and expanding international reach with shows in countries like France, England, and Germany.
Wight, who spent over two decades with WWE before joining AEW in early 2021, also pointed out WWE’s exclusivity agreements previously limited AEW’s access to venues. AEW Dynamite: Blood and Guts is scheduled for November 4 at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida, airing on TBS and HBO Max.
Fan Take: This development underscores the importance of competition in professional wrestling, which ultimately pushes companies to innovate and provide better opportunities for talent. For fans, it means more diverse storytelling, heightened excitement, and a healthier industry poised for long-term growth.
Source: wrestlingnews.co
