AEW President Tony Khan met with former WWE Superstar Shane McMahon in the summer of 2024, sparking major speculation. McMahon left WWE after WrestleMania 39; he has stayed away from the pro-wrestling world.
However, last year, rumors of his potential AEW debut gained traction, especially after reports emerged of his meeting with Tony Khan. In July 2024, Khan and McMahon held a private meeting near Arlington Airport to discuss possible opportunities.
A photo of McMahon and Khan leaked online, fueling even more speculation. McMahon also met with AEW stars Mercedes Mone and The Young Bucks, intensifying rumors about a possible move to AEW.
Despite all the rumors, nothing came out of their talks. Recently, Jonathan Coachman said that McMahon wanted a share and to run AEW. However, Khan allegedly ghosted him after the secret meeting.
Speaking on The Coach & Bro Show, Coachman stated, “I have it on good authority that Shane McMahon asked for the world. He asked for equity in the company, and he asked to come in and run the entire show. It was probably the first time that I said to myself I actually agree with Tony Khan ghosting him, because Tony ghosted Shane, it wasn’t the other way around. And the fact that Shane was at the Super Bowl with his dad, it’s like he can’t figure out what he wants to do.” [H/T: WrestlingInc]
After their secret meeting, Khan never followed up with McMahon. New reports have now revealed more about McMahon’s unsuccessful talks with AEW’s president and his reaction to being ghosted.
How Shane McMahon reacted to Tony Khan ‘ghosting’ him
A source close to Shane McMahon told Fightful Select behind a paywall that Tony Khan made no effort to follow up after their secret meeting. McMahon wanted to run things in AEW, but he didn’t fully understand the promotion’s business model. Some believe Khan may have even thought McMahon’s request was a joke.
Jonathan Coachman claims that Tony Khan never spoke with Shane McMahon after their meeting. Fightful Select revealed that McMahon apparently didn’t take it personally despite being ignored.
The reports also stated that AEW and Shane McMahon have no plans to work together extensively. There were never any plans for McMahon to appear on AEW TV, but a cameo is still possible.
