Road Dogg Emphasizes Understanding Tony Khan's AEW Viewpoint

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On the recent episode of his "Oh...You Didn't Know?" podcast, WWE veteran "Road Dogg" Brian James shared his insights into the controversial decision made by AEW CEO, Tony Khan, to terminate the contract of CM Punk after a heated backstage altercation with Jack Perry during AEW All In.

James admitted, "I don't know what I would have done. However, I'm not in Tony Khan's shoes. I don't run a billion-dollar wrestling company. So, pondering my hypothetical actions in that situation is moot." James emphasized that the perspective changes drastically when you're a billionaire company owner as opposed to an observer.

"Over the past three years, my eyes have been opened to a myriad of perspectives. There's so much happening not just domestically but globally, and it's vital to approach these situations from a comprehensive angle," James added.

Defending Khan's Reaction

He further explained, "People were quick to criticize Khan, saying he overreacted. But it's essential to understand who Tony Khan is. He isn’t just an entrepreneur, nor is he a mere spectator.

He's a passionate wrestling enthusiast who found himself in a potentially dangerous situation. While many see him as a privileged child due to his father's soccer and football affiliations, at heart, he's a young man who's deeply invested in the wrestling world." Addressing the incident, AEW's CEO Khan elaborated on his decision during a recent "AEW Collision" episode.

In a pre-recorded segment, Khan stated, "During the Punk-Perry incident at All In, I genuinely felt that my security, safety, and life were at risk." He went on to reveal that both an internal disciplinary committee and an external legal council were involved in probing the incident.

Khan concluded, "Given the gravity of the situation and after much deliberation, I had to make the heart-wrenching decision to release the former AEW World Champion, CM Punk." This incident underscores the challenges company heads face when the safety of its members is threatened, and it reinforces the need for understanding and empathy from the broader wrestling community.