sports entertainment•Mon, October 26, 2026•4 min read

Tony Khan and Skydance: Inside the Future of AEW

Following the merger of Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount into Skydance, Tony Khan has been in high-level talks with leadership. As AEW navigates this new corporate landscape, the promotion looks toward a future of potential expansion and stability.

A New Corporate Era for AEW

The wrestling industry is watching closely as AEW President Tony Khan navigates the newly formed corporate giant, Skydance. Following the major merger between Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount, the television landscape for wrestling content is shifting, and Khan has been actively engaging with the new leadership to secure the promotion's path forward.

Tony Khan is reportedly holding key meetings with Skydance executives to discuss AEW's future.

The Skydance Connection

Tony Khan has publicly expressed optimism regarding the transition. During a recent media call, he spoke highly of Skydance CEO David Ellison, characterizing the leadership change as a positive development that could bolster AEW's resources. While specific details regarding changes to television delivery or streaming platforms remain under wraps, the current media rights deal keeps AEW programming on TBS and TNT through at least 2028.

AEW remains committed to TBS and TNT through 2028.
Tony Khan has held multiple meetings with Skydance CEO David Ellison.
Khan views the merger as an opportunity for increased resources and a 'stronger' future for the promotion.

Industry Context and Uncertainty

While Khan remains positive, the broader media environment is currently experiencing turbulence. Reports indicate that other wrestling-related programming, such as Women of Wrestling and NWA content, has faced challenges, including the loss of syndication arrangements and channel cancellations. These developments highlight the volatile nature of the current media landscape, making Khan’s proactive outreach to Skydance executives a critical strategic move to ensure AEW's continued growth.

Skydance means Warner Brothers and Paramount under the same roof, and this means more exciting opportunities and more resources. Warner Brothers is going to be stronger.
— Tony Khan

Key Takeaways

AEW has confirmed its television home through 2028.
Tony Khan is in ongoing discussions with Skydance CEO David Ellison.
The WBD-Paramount merger is seen as a potential growth opportunity by AEW leadership.
The broader wrestling media market is currently seeing significant shifts and programming cuts.

FAQ

Is AEW leaving TBS and TNT?

No. AEW's current media rights deal secures its place on TBS and TNT through at least 2028.

Why is Tony Khan meeting with Skydance?

Following the merger of WBD and Paramount, Khan is building relationships with new leadership to ensure the promotion's future and explore potential opportunities.

Who is the CEO of Skydance?

David Ellison serves as the CEO of Skydance.

How does the merger affect other wrestling shows?

Other programs, such as Women of Wrestling, have reportedly faced challenges including the loss of television syndication and channel cancellations.