Tony Khan Reveals Actual TNT Reaction To Sting AEW Debut

Tony Khan has clarified the position of TNT on surprise AEW debuts, revealing their actual reaction to the surprise appearance of Sting.

Recently, Chris Jericho claimed that the TNT network were upset with Sting appearing for AEW unannounced last year. According to AEW President Tony Khan, this statement wasn’t entirely true.

On PWInsider Elite, Khan explained that TNT actually thought the reaction to Sting’s debut was great. Claiming that TNT had never asked for “no more surprises” as was recently reported, Khan pointed out that everything on AEW TV has to be balanced.

Citing Paul Wight and Christian Cage’s debuts, Khan inferred that TNT had wanted to do a high-profile talent press release. Using the example of Mike Tyson’s AEW return this week, Khan explained that sometimes fans will know things in advance, and sometimes surprises will be in store.

Here is the full quote:

“It’s a mixed bag, I would say it is exactly how it happened. Point being I don’t think that’s exactly how the conversation happened, I know, I’m the one who had it. That’s not exactly how the conversation with TNT went. There’s a balance between announcing things in advance like we’ve done with Mike (Tyson) coming in for this week, or with Paul Wight coming in, telling fans in advance when something’s coming, or surprises that came out of nowhere like when Sting showed up. I think that’s a great balance to have, and I think we’ll be doing both”

“I want to make it clear, TNT never said don’t do surprises, they thought that was great, and they got a huge reaction to Sting, and I think in doing the announcement with Paul, they were excited to do one with a press release, it’s a great strategy”

Mike Tyson is set to return to AEW for Dynamite tonight. The legendary boxer made an appearance at Double Or Nothing 2020, presenting Cody Rhodes with the TNT Championship.

Also on tonight’s show, Hangman Page is set to compete in singles action. Currently the top ranked star in one-on-one competition, Page looks to continue his luck against an interesting up-and-comer.

Quote via HeelByNature.

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• surprise
• TNT
• tony khan
• AEW

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