Many AEW pay-per-view events are known for their lengthy runtime, a point that has drawn mixed reactions from fans. While some feel the shows are too long without the pre-show, others have grown accustomed to and appreciate the extensive content Tony Khan aims to deliver. Speaking during the post-show media scrum at Full Gear, Khan addressed concerns about show length and discussed plans for the 2026 pay-per-view schedule, emphasizing his efforts to avoid late finishes for East Coast audiences.
Khan reflected on the feedback received after the “Dynasty” event, noting that he opted to avoid Sunday night East Coast shows in the future. Instead, he started scheduling more afternoon start times, which he believes have worked well and attracted consistent viewership. He also highlighted the difference in scheduling flexibility between Saturday and Sunday shows, especially on the West Coast, where start times can vary more freely. Khan expressed his enthusiasm for early-start events like “All In Texas,” “Forbidden Door,” and “All Out,” eager to continue exploring these options.
He also shared that although he enjoys attending mixed martial arts and boxing events that sometimes have main events starting as late as 1 a.m., he realizes such timing isn’t practical for pro wrestling. Khan explained why AEW pay-per-views (excluding pre-shows) generally last around four hours, saying the company’s contracted show time is nearly four hours. In fact, no AEW pay-per-view has been shorter than three and a half hours, as contracts usually require about three hours and 45 minutes of content.
Fan Take: This insight from Tony Khan reassures AEW fans that the company values their viewing experience and is actively seeking balance between content richness and viewer comfort. It signals that AEW is committed to delivering high-quality, substantial events while being mindful of scheduling, which could enhance fan engagement and set a positive precedent for pro wrestling’s future.
