AEW Wrestling: A Complete History of All Elite Wrestling
The Founding of AEW (2019)
AEW was founded by Tony Khan, alongside wrestlers Cody Rhodes, The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson), and Kenny Omega. The promotion was officially announced in January 2019 and quickly gained attention for promising an alternative to WWE with fresh storytelling, athletic matches, and creative freedom for wrestlers.
From the beginning, AEW emphasized fan engagement, innovative storytelling, and inclusivity in wrestling, giving wrestlers the platform to showcase their personalities and athleticism.
Early Years and AEW Dynamite
AEW officially launched its weekly television show, AEW Dynamite, on TNT in October 2019. The show quickly became a major success, featuring matches with stars like Chris Jericho, Jon Moxley, Cody Rhodes, and Kenny Omega.
AEW differentiated itself by blending traditional wrestling storytelling with modern athleticism and entertainment, attracting both long-time wrestling fans and new viewers. Highlights from the early years include:
Double or Nothing 2019 – AEW’s inaugural pay-per-view, which set the tone for the promotion
Chris Jericho vs. Kenny Omega – High-profile matches that brought credibility and star power
Diverse Talent Roster – Including MJF, Darby Allin, Jungle Boy, and Britt Baker
Expansion and Growth (2020–2021)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, AEW faced challenges with live audiences but adapted quickly, utilizing empty arena shows and later reopening with safety measures. Despite these obstacles, AEW continued to grow, signing key talent such as:
Pac – International star and former WWE talent
Bryan Danielson (Daniel Bryan in WWE) – Brought technical mastery and credibility
CM Punk – Returned to wrestling in AEW, creating massive fan excitement
AEW’s events, including Full Gear, All Out, and Double or Nothing, became highly anticipated shows for wrestling fans worldwide, emphasizing storytelling, in-ring action, and dramatic character arcs.
AEW Pay-Per-View and Championships
AEW has created several championship titles to showcase talent and elevate storylines:
AEW World Championship – Top title defended by stars like Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, Jon Moxley, and CM Punk
AEW World Tag Team Championship – Highlighting teams like The Young Bucks, FTR, and Jurassic Express
AEW Women’s World Championship – Showcasing top female talent such as Britt Baker and Thunder Rosa
These championships, combined with dynamic storylines, have helped AEW establish legitimacy and compete with other wrestling promotions globally.
Legends, Stars, and Rising Talent
AEW’s roster combines established wrestling legends with up-and-coming stars, including:
Chris Jericho – Veteran superstar and inaugural AEW World Champion
Kenny Omega – Global star and former AEW World Champion
Cody Rhodes – Co-founder and top draw for the promotion
MJF – Young talent quickly rising as a top heel (villain)
Britt Baker – Star of the women’s division and fan favorite
AEW continues to cultivate talent through developmental programs and partnerships, ensuring a steady pipeline of future stars.
Impact on Professional Wrestling
AEW has had a major impact on professional wrestling since its inception. The promotion has:
Offered an alternative to WWE, increasing competition
Elevated the level of in-ring performance and storytelling
Highlighted diversity and inclusivity in wrestling talent
Built a loyal global fanbase through social media and streaming platforms
The promotion has not only entertained fans but also influenced the broader wrestling industry by encouraging creative freedom and athletic innovation.
Conclusion
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in professional wrestling. From its 2019 founding to groundbreaking pay-per-views, legendary talent, and a strong global fanbase, AEW represents innovation, athleticism, and compelling storytelling in the modern wrestling era.
With stars like Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, Cody Rhodes, MJF, and Britt Baker, AEW continues to redefine what fans expect from professional wrestling, ensuring a bright future for the promotion and the industry as a whole.