The wrestling world has erupted into a heated debate after Konnan, a wrestling legend, made a recent claim about Tony Khan and WWE’s Royal Rumble. The controversy has sparked a fierce backlash from All Elite Wrestling (AEW) fans, who have been taking shots at Konnan on social media. However, the WCW legend has refused to back down, firing back with harsh jabs and dismissing the criticism.
At the center of the storm is Konnan’s claim that Tony Khan was upset over Dragon Lee signing with WWE in December 2022, shortly after Lee and Dralistico defeated AEW’s FTR for the AAA Tag Team Championship. Konnan, who has a storied past with AAA and has been their Creative Director, alleged that Khan issued an edict to prevent AEW talents from watching the 2023 WWE Royal Rumble, which featured the return of Cody Rhodes.
The AEW fans have been relentless in their criticism of Konnan, with some calling him a “has-been” and accusing him of fabricating the story for attention. One fan even shared photos of Ricky Starks at the 2023 Rumble and Dustin Rhodes at WrestleMania 40, as proof that Konnan was not being truthful.
However, Konnan has been quick to respond, firing back at his detractors and dismissing their claims. When one fan suggested that Konnan had “several reasons” to make up the story, Konnan countered by dismissing two potential reasons – Tony Khan’s working relationship with AAA rival CMLL, and Konnan’s own desire for a job from Khan.
Konnan’s history with AEW is well-documented, having made three appearances for the company, including Dynamite on November 17, 2020, the Double or Nothing 2021 event, and the June 26, 2021 edition of Dynamite. Despite this, the 60-year-old wrestling veteran remains unapologetic and committed to his story.
As AEW celebrates its fifth anniversary this week, the controversy surrounding Konnan’s claim has cast a shadow over the company’s milestone. Tony Khan took to social media to mark the occasion, but the drama surrounding Konnan’s allegations has dominated the conversation. As AEW prepares to tape this week’s Dynamite and Rampage, the company will be hoping to move on from the controversy and focus on its upcoming events, including the sixth annual Double or Nothing event on May 26, 2024.
