AEW doesn’t have the same buzz that they did a few years ago, and that has resulted in a few heated discussions online. Tony Khan has often been known to throw fuel on the fire, which is an interesting look as company President. Now, he is replying to another recent controversy that was sparked by a Straight Outta Compton star.
O’Shea Jackson Jr on AEW fans and what’s missing
“If I’m watching someone on AEW and I ask who is this guy I don’t need you to tell me I’m not a real wrestling fan.”
(Chris Van Vliet interview)pic.twitter.com/Ekd9JaEJN4
— Vick (@Vick_8122) February 20, 2024
AEW Fans Get O’Shea Jackson Jr’s Attention
O’Shea Jackson Jr has been speaking his mind on Twitter/X, and fans have also responded with a lot of aggression. He also spoke to Chris Van Vliet about his opinion on pro wrestling, and that stirred up a bit of backlash.
While speaking to Chris Van Vliet, O’Shea Jackson Jr. expressed his frustration, noting that while he understands some fans may be deeply entrenched in certain wrestling companies, but he feels there’s a lack of inclusivity for those who may not be as familiar. He emphasized the importance of informative storytelling within wrestling programming, similar to how UFC provides background on fighters before matches. O’Shea then highlighted the need for wrestling shows to engage viewers with compelling narratives, rather than solely relying on commentators to provide information while wrestlers make their entrances.
Even when you think it’s been all hate I’ve been giving props too lmao but stay mad. https://t.co/JGthN6K9yx
— O’Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) February 21, 2024
Ice Cube’s son also suggested that without this level of engagement, it’s easy for newcomers to pro wrestling to feel alienated, especially when met with backlash for asking questions. Ultimately, he stressed the importance of captivating storytelling to draw in a broader audience.
Thank you all so much. Today has done wonders for my negotiations. I couldn’t have done it without my man @ChrisVanVliet. Anytime you need me brotha let’s make some waves.
I will see you all very very. Soon. Going to enjoy my dinner. Thinking of all of you. God bless. Talk soon pic.twitter.com/5rT7O4eXQA
— O’Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) February 21, 2024
Tony Khan Responds
Tony Khan saw what O’Shea Jackson Jr. had to say, and he responded in kind. While taking to Twitter/X, Khan said that hopes that Jackson will check out wrestling in “wider circles” soon.
@OsheaJacksonJr You might enjoy checking out new experiences + entire worlds of international graps out there, I think learning about them is fun. All wrestling is awesome; I hope you enjoy whatever you like, + maybe someday you’ll be interested in wider circles!
@OsheaJacksonJr You might enjoy checking out new experiences + entire worlds of international graps out there, I think learning about them is fun.
All wrestling is awesome; I hope you enjoy whatever you like, + maybe someday you'll be interested in wider circles!#AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/T5lTcPryji— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) February 21, 2024
What’s Next
Tony Khan received some negative feedback from fans after he posted that reply to O’Shea Jackson Jr. It will be interesting to see what is said next, but Jackson doesn’t seem willing to back down from his stance on the discussion.
Pro wrestling fans are very passionate about their favorite company, whether it is WWE, AEW, TNA, NJPW or anywhere else. It can also be a tough fandom to crack, because there is so much someone needs to know in order to really understand everything that is going on. Either way, the important part is that fans enjoy themselves and have fun.