In a heartfelt interview on the “Way of the Blade” podcast, AEW CEO Tony Khan opened up about the significance of Sting’s retirement match at AEW Revolution in March 2024, describing it as an intensely personal and joyous occasion.
Khan stated unequivocally, “It’s probably the best, happiest night of my life in wrestling, one of the happiest nights of my life. I’m really glad that we were all able to put it together for Sting.” This declaration underscores the profound emotional investment and sense of accomplishment Khan felt in orchestrating the legendary wrestler’s final in-ring performance.
The main event of AEW Revolution saw Sting team with Darby Allin to successfully defend the AEW World Tag Team Championship against The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) in a Tornado Tag Team match. The match was highly praised for its action and the willingness of all participants to take risks to deliver a memorable spectacle for Sting’s send-off.
Khan specifically highlighted the contributions of the other wrestlers involved, emphasizing the dangerous and exciting nature of the contest. “Darby and the Young Bucks and everyone involved in that wrestling match, and in particular, some of the risks they took, the Young Bucks and what Darby did, and Sting himself taking so many risks in the match helped make it a great match…”
Ultimately, for Tony Khan, the convergence of the match quality, the emotional weight of the occasion, and the successful send-off for a beloved figure in wrestling history culminated in an unparalleled personal highlight. “…and all that came together to create, I think, a perfect night, a perfect match, and probably the greatest, happiest memory of my entire life.”
Sting’s retirement marked the end of an illustrious career spanning several decades across major wrestling promotions, including WCW, TNA, and finally AEW.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit Way of the Blade with an h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
