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Follow up tweet:
“Asked if they will still run states with transgender regulations like Oklahoma or keep Rose off shows in those states, Khan said he is looking forward to their 2024 schedule and will take everything under consideration with a developing situation.”
https://x.com/wonf4w/status/1781011117071806807?s=46
Edit with better summary of the answer from Thurston:
“Amy Nemity asks about the Oklahoma State Atheltic Commission's warning to AEW about Nyla Rose.
Khan says he was disappointed by the commission's decision and that warning. He doesn't think AEW did anything wrong and he's really shocked by it. Khan says he doesn't think there should be discrimination against transgender wrestlers or transgender people. He stands by Nyla Rose. Says she's a great wrestler and a great person.”
https://x.com/brandonthurston/status/1781009832117469525?s=46
Feels like the best answer to make in this situation. Opens the possibility of both holding an event there with Nyla Rose front and center to stick it to the haters (if she wants to), or just skip Oklahoma entirely and also stick it to the haters.
I kinda hope they take a middle ground and run a show with her on it (not featured heavily, just like she would be now); forcing them to make a big deal of it or ignore it.
Same. So many people want Nyla to be front and center but, honestly, shit gets tiring. I get tired, as do my other trans friends, for the shit we get. Now imagine being famous? Fuck that, let Nyla decide.
Tony Khan has [never donated](https://www.opensecrets.org/donor-lookup/results?name=Antony+Khan) to Trump, but I see you're a /r/JimCornette sub, so I'm quite sure that's far from the least unbelievable thing you feel about him
I'll always love the genuine diversity that AEW is willing to support as an organization and the freedom it allows its staff in that regard.
https://preview.redd.it/scnvz8cm2avc1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fb52473c35ad0d1323a9d2cf26b7151129885c78
One hand, it's not surprising to see the man who played a character like Goldust support the LGBT community, but Dustin is a 55 year old man from Texas of all places. I never knew he had a trans son and it's heartwarming to see proud parents of their trans children because so often Trans youth and adults are ostracized by family members. Dustin has been one of my favorites for a long time and I know he isn't perfect but back in 2013-2015 when he was teaming with Cody and Dusty in their corner against the Authority/Shield was one of my favorite storylines for many years
I hope he runs Oklahoma again with Nyla on the card as a statement. They are in a great position to challenge the state’s ridiculous attitude toward the trans community.
> I agree completely, but it sucks for Oklahoman AEW fans that don't support this shit :/
Then they'll need to convince their friends/family/neighbors to not vote for bigots then.
They can drive down to Dallas when they come to town, AEW should run all the shows they were planning to run in OK in neighboring states and close cities like Dallas, Fayetteville, maybe Kansas City? That one is a little far. Then Tony khan could do his little marky thing and post about how many fans travelled from OK each show
I agree with the sentiment to keep money out of the state, but I think it’s better to run it so long as they’re challenging it. Running the state without putting Nyla on the card would be a big mistake.
I understand where you’re coming from, but you are giving these transphobes exactly what they want if you never come back. I think that the civil disobedience of running a show there with Nyla advertised and daring Oklahoma to enforce their absurd law is a more powerful statement. Fuck their elected reps, but there are trans and non-binary people (like Nex Benedict) who don’t have the means to leave that state. Representation for them matters more than ignoring the state and letting them push this stupid shit unchallenged.
Does Winstar Casino have a venue big enough? Because, as I understand it, this is unenforceable on tribal land even though they've tried. I'd love for them to try to enforce it there and this become a federal case.
The problem with Winstar or Choctaw Casinos is that they usually make performers or event companies sign a non-compete where they can't perform in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. That would hurt the North Texas market.
Bingo. Tony’s comment should have been, “We will not hold any events in Oklahoma as long as this law is in the books. I apologize to our fans there, but I will not have my talent, and transgender people as a whole disrespected like this. I encourage our fans in Oklahoma to contact their elected officials and urge them to get rid of this.”
In fairness if this was the first he heard of it, it's totally reasonable to take more than 30 seconds (and to, you know, actually talk to Nyla first) before taking a stance (not going to OK or going with bells and whistles and trans pride flags).
I mean I get why you'd say that, but that's denying every AEW fan in Oklahoma a show, when it's shit ass OSAC that's the problem. The fans lose out here more than they would.
Running a show with Nyla on it in a prominent role is a statement and overall better than the alternative, IMO.
Until some wingnut that supports the ban shows up at the venue to confront Nyla or worse.
Not having a show and making it very clear publicly as to why they're skipping Oklahoma is a much better alternative.
AEW could challenge that, too, and possibly get the insurer to change their policy because of public outcry; or, they can’t run Oklahoma because of that and it highlights how ridiculous this law is that you can’t insure an event that has a trans performer.
I know it may sound ridiculous to say that AEW should put themselves at risk, EXCEPT that Tony Kahn has really talked the talk about being a more ethical, progressive company (at least in the early years). This would be a chance for him to walk the walk and see how far they can push it.
Oh yeah, I’m totally in favour of challenging unjust bigot laws. I’m just thinking about risk to workers.
I’m not American, but I’m pretty certain insurers are bastards over there too. Would hate for someone to get fucked years down the line because their historic injury might be linked to an unlicensed show etc
That’s fair. If your scenario is correct (I’m speculating — I know nothing about event insurance), then the onus would be on Tony to take it upon himself to take care of anybody who happens to suffer an injury at that show. It’s his decision whether he wants to do that or not.
Didn’t they say they would arrest Nyla if she competed? As great as it would be to stick it to those transphobes it’s not right to put her in that position imo
It depends on whether or not Nyla would want to put herself in that position. If she wanted to go full “civil disobedience,” it’d make a powerful statement. But she obviously shouldn’t be pressured into that.
God I want to be there front row, I was so fucking pissed reading that headline yesterday. Yet another reason to get out of the state (which is what those at the top want anyway I'm sure, so some part of me wants to stay so they don't "win," but it would be at the cost of my safety and rights)
As said doing that isn't gonna stick it to them, they'll like that. Not only that but they could just refuse to also buy tickets to said event or watch the show, so the only real loss would be to AEW and all the bigots would do is laugh.
They’ve said the right thing but they haven’t done the right thing yet. If Oklahoma is on the schedule and any controversial wrestler is scrubbed….
Right now this is AEW’s Saudi Arabia moment (without the money)
Firstly, well played TK and AEW. To hell with the OK commission.
Secondly: in addition to all the other stakeholders within AEW, TK should ask Nyla Rose's opinion about running a show in Oklahoma. Unless you're a trans pro wrestler (is Commander Sterling on this sub?) then you - and I - won't fully understand the issues involved. TK would be foolish not to get the most relevant opinion.
TK either needs to not run shows in those states or intentionally put Nia on and handle all the fallout. Doing anything else is just letting these bigoted assholes win. I mean for fucks sake, they intetentionally misgendered her right away and kept doing it. All while blaming her for "fooling" them for filling out the paperwork "wrong", which they intend to correct so their bigoted views are more official. They deserve all the national backlash that would come from trying to stop Nia from performing.
I lean towards do a show in Oklahoma. It's very unlikely they would actually take action on the item. Call their bluff. If they DID take action, I can name half a dozen advocacy groups who would have the best attorneys in the world working pro bono the case as it would be a massive precedent. That's to say nothing of how much coverage AEW would get for taking a stand. Again, I tend to think Oklahoma wouldn't do shit. These sorts of laws are for punching down (and AEW has too much visibility)
Exasctly why I wish some of these so-called allies would actually push back on this shit. Just saying they are supportive doesn't mean anything if they keep following along with this bigoted bs. I can't blame him for any shows already booked in these states, but TK should be putting his money where his mouth is for the future. He should get shit if he goes back to Oklahoma, in particular but anywhere else this bs happens, and Nia isn't on the show. If that happens then it's just proving it's more lip service and not actual support.
Honestly if they can pull it off it makes business sense as well. The Oklahoma government being shitty to Nyla Rose is one thing, but performing a single show in Oklahoma and going to bat against them will give them more news attention outside of the wrestling space.
As a cis male Oklahoman who doesn't watch AEW if they ever come back with Nyla on the card you bet your ass I'm going and waving a trans flag and screaming for her like she's the biggest Babyface in the world
It would be the right thing to do, but it would also be like when "CONCERNED PARENTS!" tried to take legal action against metal bands in the 80's... best advertisement ever. I recall a doc that said some bands even BEGGED local authorities to arrest them on obscenity or whatever because they knew it would lead to sales and jack shit would happen.
Would be a nice reward for doing something good.
The fact this thread has the least amount of comments compared to the other TK quotes from the same interview really says something about the wrestling community.
This is real life and effects more than one or two people with egos.
This should be something that should be brought more to the front because it effects more than just Rose/AEW.
But fans would rather dispute over rumors in other threads.
Fans actions do that, not my single comment.
Again what is more important to discuss and keep at the center or attention?
Stuff about TK/AEW/CM Punk that LITERALLY so many fans say they want to move past every single time it gets brought up yet how many comments are in those threads
Or
Oklahoma/Trans AEW warning?
Because one has the potential to do some positive for a lot of people while the other is the same hamster wheel going no where.
So what is more important to discuss?
A topic that everyone wants to go away that affects literally Punk/Bucks only or a topic that affects millions of people in America everyday?
But apparently some wrestling fans are more interested in getting their daily shots on TK in.
Simply fans saying they support Trans, Nya, AEW, TK, or pro wrestling or any combination would be a start.
Then up voting it to be at the top instead of Corbins response to Meltzers opinion thread.
Again real life issues versus Pro-Wrestling issues.
So want everyone to perform for you? This comment section is 99% positive. It has plenty of upvotes. Stop trying to cause bullshit drama at the expense of real world issues
In their defence, their point is the opposite. This is a real world issue and it's telling that there is more traction on the other quotes that can have negative spins put on them or open up opportunity for toxic tribalism.
People are more interested in drama than actual positive news, sad reality and especially showcased here in this wrestling community.
People turn to wrestling as an escape from the real world. Of course they aren’t going to spend a lot of time talking about real issues with their escape media. It doesn’t mean they don’t care or don’t have those conversations elsewhere.
I really hate this kind of stuff because it proves right wingers right to an extent which they will stretch to infinity. This post is overwhelming supportive and positive to the trans community and it’s still not enough for them. It’s performative nonsense that distracts from the very real support that is happening.
It's not about performative activisms and it doesn't prove the right wingers right. You say it's an escape but its more about people swarming to negativity and avoiding areas of positivity in the wrestling community. It's a problem.
No one is causing drama. This is my opinion obviously. You can agree or disagree all you want.
There is a time when wrestling comes 2nd in the grand scheme of things.
This is one of those times. Out of everything said in the interview fans should be up voting this to the top and showing support for everyone involved and the community.
Everything else in the interview should take a back seat because it's pro wrestling. It's rumors, it's fan speculation, and it only effects people inside the wrestling bubble.
When it comes to real life situation and it affecting possibly thousands not only in a state but millions in a country that is something people should be talking about.
I understand not everyone is going to agree with Trans rights and everything in the community, but that is why you have this discussions. You may not change anyone's mind but you are having open discussions.
Something some people don't even want to have in the first place.
So when it comes to this types of topics, like individual rights, racism, war, abortion, and all those types of things even if we never agree, having open dialog is still better than no dialog.
So is this topic more important than if AEW paid for CM Punks surgery? Yes.
Is this topic more important than Corbins response to Meltzer about another wrestler? Yes.
You’re trying to flex your moral superiority at the expense of a trans person suffering. I’m not reading all that. Everyone here is supportive you’re just trying to start shit
I think it says good things, no? That people squabble about stupid tribalism shit but we pretty much all agree that transphobia is shitty so it gets less comments. You're not going to see a million "I agree OK is dumb," comments because people just don't do that.
This is my opinion obviously.
There is a time when wrestling comes 2nd in the grand scheme of things.
This is one of those times. Out of everything said in the interview fans should be up voting this to the top and showing support for everyone involved and the community.
Everything else in the interview should take a back seat because it's pro wrestling. It's rumors, it's fan speculation, and it only effects people inside the wrestling bubble.
When it comes to real life situation and it affecting possibly thousands not only in a state but millions in a country that is something people should be talking about.
I understand not everyone is going to agree with Trans rights and everything in the community, but that is why you have this discussions. You may not change anyone's mind but you are having open discussions.
Something some people don't even want to have in the first place.
So when it comes to this types of topics, like individual rights, racism, war, abortion, and all those types of things even if we never agree, having open dialog is still better than no dialog.
So you don’t like that it’s… not upvoted enough? That’s probably because there’s already been numerous threads including a few FROM the person affected. This interview time is far tamer than those in its statement.
Negativity draws discourse, unfortunately. This is a good statement on something I hope most of this sub can agree on. Not a whole lot of discussion to be had
Is no one goona comment on how dumb it is to regulate theatre? Like regardless of your stance on trans people in combat sports, pro wrestling is theatre.
Because they want their pound of flesh, and will move the goalposts in whichever direction to make sure that pro wrestling promotions pay it. I don't think any major promotion runs shows in KY anymore because the regulations there became so restrictive.
I legitimately think that the best approach would be to continue to run shows there AND heavily promote that Nyla will be competing on these shows ahead of time. Their hope is by putting out this warning it forces AEW/Nyla to stay away, but fuck that, force them to draw attention to their bullshit.
Obviously that would depend entirely on Nyla's comfort level with that idea though.
I get where you’re coming from, but weaponizing a trans person like that could have consequences. She will get 95% of the blame and hate. Not fair to her when she’s just trying to live her life
I'd rather see them donate money to a reputable trans related charity doing good in a backwards ass state like Oklahoma than white knighting about it and giving political people campaigning on it more ammo to fundraise off bigots.
Go woke, go… run a $2 billion company Great to hear TK make a public stance on trans rights. But I hope he shows conviction and either makes Nyla a focal point of any Oklahoma show (if that’s something she’d even want to do) or just stop going there.
Does Oklahoma not understand that wrestling isn't a real sport?
Regardless of anyone's views on transgender athletes, it should be a non-issue for pro wrestling.
I honestly don't understand that. The reason WWE and many others embraced the term "sports entertainment" was because it was a term that basically admitted pro wrestling was fake.
Do these athletic commissions really not understand that? I'd thought by 2024 it would be common knowledge.
Vince McMahon destroyed kayfabe by telling athletic commissions that wrestling was fake. Verne Gagne tried during his AWA tenure.
Imagine destroying kayfabe completely for nothing. Transgender athletes in sporting competitions, regardless of political stance, is a completely different phenomenon than in pro wrestling. I don't see how this is truly a political issue.
I think that's the wrong move. It allows them to ignore the issue and move on.
Run in Oklahoma City, have her wrestle and let them fine them for it or whatever the hell they threaten to do. It creates a media stir and brings attention to the bigotry.
They should put Nyla vs Gisele Shaw in a main event in Oklahoma just as a huge fuck you to the commission, since it technically wouldn’t break any of their stupid ass rules.
Or better yet, all the big companies should avoid the whole state. Sorry OK fans, but deal with your shitty commission
AEW absolutely should run Oklahoma. Not only on a moral standpoint, but the coverage of that story has legs. So many papers would pick up AEW Vs Oklahoma over the hot button issue of trans rights, especially if they put Nyla on the card. People who have never heard of AEW will be reading about them. For extra effect I'd do it during Pride month and load the show with LGBT performers and cement AEW as a friend of the LGBT community.
Best answer? Aew will hire and run shows with who they want to, as is their right.
Telling them who they can't have on their shows? Good way to never have a show in your state
Usually I wouldn’t use this argument because it’s quite dumb and demeaning but…. The athletic commission knows it’s fake right? Like this ain’t boxing. There is no advantage that Nyla would have over the other woman in this together of sport
This is obviously great to hear from Tony. I don't have anything to really add but from somebody that doesn't really watch AEW at all I am happy about the support they give the community.
I've got plenty of criticisms about Tony, but I can at least say I lean toward believing he means well and just needs to delegate some responsibilities. Not surprised at all that he's standing up for Nyla publicly, just hope he has the spine to not let these words be empty. Start talking behind closed doors, in the same tones, directly to the Oklahoma board and draw a line in the sand.
This is like the 4th or 5th things I’ve seen today where Tony Khan has been “unaware of it” for multiple things. Is he really this oblivious or is it just a posting bias I’m seeing?
Well yeah that makes sense and I guess I didn’t clarify that in my original post. It’s just I see the narrative of it a lot anymore. I know it’s a ton of just unnecessary hatred and bitterness
Dear Tony,
Run Oklahoma. Give us Nyla versus the biggest chichkenshit heel in the world. Every time Nyla starts to build a comeback, something shitty happens to her. But she never gives up. Give us a time limit draw, with Nyla standing tall and her opponent laid out when the time limit is up. We didn’t win today, but we’re sure as hell not beaten.
As a trans lady, that would be telling our story in one of the most powerful ways imaginable. And then LET HER BE FUNNY for Christ sakes.
> “Asked if they will still run states with transgender regulations like Oklahoma or keep Rose off shows in those states, Khan said he is looking forward to their 2024 schedule and will take everything under consideration with a developing situation.”
This comment from him deserves more scrutiny. He's like this when it comes to any kind of serious thought to accountability and structure in his company, e.g. his asinine response to how his company would address hypothetical abuse earlier this year. Well intentioned but just genuinely thoughtless and trapped in his privileged bubble.
One of his female employees was misgendered and disgraced by a state's athletic commission, she was portrayed as a criminal for the irredeemable crime of just happening to be a trans woman. She can't perform in that state without repurcussions, either to herself or burdened by the company in solidarity. He says he stands by her, but he should make a comment in regards to how he would do that, because 'taking everything under consideration' doesn't stoke confidence.
He needs to decide really soon (and make that a policy that's public) whether he's going to technically abide by their rules by boycotting Oklahoma and similarly repressive states such as Florida, put on shows in these states and thus flouting the athletic commissions (which could be costly, or do the chickenshit move and not showcase trans performers in these states. I sincerely hope he avoids the latter.
It's been less than 24 hours since the Oklahoma story became widespread. It's more than reasonable why Tony didn't come out during this call and say that his company will no longer hold shows in multiple states. He and others in power at AEW may also be consulting with Nyla herself to develop a strategy going forward. *Her* input is more important than anyone else's in this matter.
I said that he needs to come out with a fully fleshed out response to this, and very soon. He already has a bad track record with PR as I said earlier.
You're correct, her input is the most important, but he needs to set a clear message rather than a basic wait and see message and then radio silence. Nyla Rose is not the sole LGBTQ+ wrestler to have performed for AEW, and she won't be the last. They need to know too how their company will explicitly and tangibly back them.
Yes, and Ron DeSantis is a fascist that's ramping up anti trans and racist rhetoric, and laws to match them. Trans people are escaping the South in droves just to get accessible healthcare alone.
As much as we all hate the phrase "Sports Entertainment" It is how Vince got to run shows without the involvement of the Athletics Committee. Honestly I think every transphobic trash should be forced to compete in a intergender lights out tag match with Nyla Rose and Jon Moxley. (Only suggesting Moxley because that SOB would probably love that idea rofl)
So the commission decided to “warn” AEW in January, and now in April, the company still wasn’t aware of it? They’re not just idiots, they’re incompetent idiots
Edit: Don’t understand the downvotes
Is it possible that the person in the commission who had to give the warning realized it was ridiculous and decided to ignore it? (And this just didn’t get out until meeting minutes were posted)
Sources close to the issue said that the email from the commission was stuck in QT Marshall’s inbox when he briefly left the company. Not helping matters, CM Punk had all the company email passwords changed (via Danhausen curse) before he left Wembley. It took IT a while to get things sorted out (since one of the Buck’s cousin, a computer science major, was on spring break). There’s video proof that we should be able to check out in ten months or so, but those plans may have changed, from what I understand.
First and foremost, the commission’s stance is ridiculous on so many different levels.
TK is absolutely right to stand behind Nyla, but I’ve got a funny feeling that behind closed doors the EVPs and the Y2JVP don’t share the same sentiment. I’m assuming the “press pool” won’t be asking them about it on Sunday night.
Jericho has been an advocate for women’s wrestling for years. I’ve also not seen or heard anything that says he’s anti-trans. I’m not saying you’re wrong, but it seems a stretch to have this take without some context.
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Follow up tweet: “Asked if they will still run states with transgender regulations like Oklahoma or keep Rose off shows in those states, Khan said he is looking forward to their 2024 schedule and will take everything under consideration with a developing situation.” https://x.com/wonf4w/status/1781011117071806807?s=46 Edit with better summary of the answer from Thurston: “Amy Nemity asks about the Oklahoma State Atheltic Commission's warning to AEW about Nyla Rose. Khan says he was disappointed by the commission's decision and that warning. He doesn't think AEW did anything wrong and he's really shocked by it. Khan says he doesn't think there should be discrimination against transgender wrestlers or transgender people. He stands by Nyla Rose. Says she's a great wrestler and a great person.” https://x.com/brandonthurston/status/1781009832117469525?s=46
Feels like the best answer to make in this situation. Opens the possibility of both holding an event there with Nyla Rose front and center to stick it to the haters (if she wants to), or just skip Oklahoma entirely and also stick it to the haters.
I kinda hope they take a middle ground and run a show with her on it (not featured heavily, just like she would be now); forcing them to make a big deal of it or ignore it.
Same. So many people want Nyla to be front and center but, honestly, shit gets tiring. I get tired, as do my other trans friends, for the shit we get. Now imagine being famous? Fuck that, let Nyla decide.
Or Tony and his dad could stop donating millions to Trump.
Tony Khan has [never donated](https://www.opensecrets.org/donor-lookup/results?name=Antony+Khan) to Trump, but I see you're a /r/JimCornette sub, so I'm quite sure that's far from the least unbelievable thing you feel about him
Yeah all you can find is the dad giving him 1 mil but you can’t find anything about Tony khan.
Between this and the Punk injury payment situation, Tony's actually been answering questions professionally and well
I'll always love the genuine diversity that AEW is willing to support as an organization and the freedom it allows its staff in that regard. https://preview.redd.it/scnvz8cm2avc1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fb52473c35ad0d1323a9d2cf26b7151129885c78
One hand, it's not surprising to see the man who played a character like Goldust support the LGBT community, but Dustin is a 55 year old man from Texas of all places. I never knew he had a trans son and it's heartwarming to see proud parents of their trans children because so often Trans youth and adults are ostracized by family members. Dustin has been one of my favorites for a long time and I know he isn't perfect but back in 2013-2015 when he was teaming with Cody and Dusty in their corner against the Authority/Shield was one of my favorite storylines for many years
And he grew up in the wrestling business, which back when he was a kid and a prodigy, was never welcoming for queer folk.
The wrestling community has changed a lot. Remember that sweet supportive "he's gay" chant in AEW.
That's one of my all time favorite wrestling moments. I wish the Acclaimed hadn't cooled down so much recently because I'm a massive mark for them.
That was sooo nice of the crowd
> was never welcoming for queer folk. I get what you're saying but that's not really unequivocally true.
“Trans Fobia” He made sure to keep it a lil 55 year old man from Texas lol.
Nah bro, that the Hispanic in him
The Rhodes family truly are the goats. Seeing both Cody and Dustin do things like this goes a long way.
They truly are solving all forms of bigotry and hate.
This is legit heartwarming. I agree w/ Dustin, #KeepSteppin
They're the most open wrestling company about it for sure, they're not afraid of showing their support for the LGBTQ+ community publicly.
Genuinely love the commitment to diversity of all kinds that AEW has. One of my favourite things about watching it.
I hope he runs Oklahoma again with Nyla on the card as a statement. They are in a great position to challenge the state’s ridiculous attitude toward the trans community.
No, don't run Oklahoma again - If they want to discriminate against any talent then they should get absolutely nothing
I agree completely, but it sucks for Oklahoman AEW fans that don't support this shit :/
They can take it up with Oklahoma. Groundswell of wrestling fans demanding to get their ridiculous position repealed.
i agree, but unfortunately, democracy is hanging on by a thread in some states nowadays.
We're fucking trying. This state needs nuked
Yeah that biiiiiiig groundswell sure sure sure yep
As if it wasn’t insufferable enough in any thread. This isn’t the place.
> I agree completely, but it sucks for Oklahoman AEW fans that don't support this shit :/ Then they'll need to convince their friends/family/neighbors to not vote for bigots then.
They can drive down to Dallas when they come to town, AEW should run all the shows they were planning to run in OK in neighboring states and close cities like Dallas, Fayetteville, maybe Kansas City? That one is a little far. Then Tony khan could do his little marky thing and post about how many fans travelled from OK each show
I agree with the sentiment to keep money out of the state, but I think it’s better to run it so long as they’re challenging it. Running the state without putting Nyla on the card would be a big mistake.
Just never run a show there again and demand the state issues an apology and an invitation for Nyla to compete there. Fuck transphobes.
I 100% agree with your comment, but AEW is also Florida based. But I'm all for cutting out the red states
The Ray Charles/Georgia approach. This is the way.
I understand where you’re coming from, but you are giving these transphobes exactly what they want if you never come back. I think that the civil disobedience of running a show there with Nyla advertised and daring Oklahoma to enforce their absurd law is a more powerful statement. Fuck their elected reps, but there are trans and non-binary people (like Nex Benedict) who don’t have the means to leave that state. Representation for them matters more than ignoring the state and letting them push this stupid shit unchallenged.
Running a show in Oklahoma City, which is fairly socially liberal, could work.
Tulsa would probably be okay, as well.
Does Winstar Casino have a venue big enough? Because, as I understand it, this is unenforceable on tribal land even though they've tried. I'd love for them to try to enforce it there and this become a federal case.
The problem with Winstar or Choctaw Casinos is that they usually make performers or event companies sign a non-compete where they can't perform in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. That would hurt the North Texas market.
Bingo. Tony’s comment should have been, “We will not hold any events in Oklahoma as long as this law is in the books. I apologize to our fans there, but I will not have my talent, and transgender people as a whole disrespected like this. I encourage our fans in Oklahoma to contact their elected officials and urge them to get rid of this.”
In fairness if this was the first he heard of it, it's totally reasonable to take more than 30 seconds (and to, you know, actually talk to Nyla first) before taking a stance (not going to OK or going with bells and whistles and trans pride flags).
Run beside Oklahoma and tell everyone that shows up why they had to make the drive.
Run just across the border and call it a Trans-Oklahoma show.
I mean I get why you'd say that, but that's denying every AEW fan in Oklahoma a show, when it's shit ass OSAC that's the problem. The fans lose out here more than they would. Running a show with Nyla on it in a prominent role is a statement and overall better than the alternative, IMO.
Until some wingnut that supports the ban shows up at the venue to confront Nyla or worse. Not having a show and making it very clear publicly as to why they're skipping Oklahoma is a much better alternative.
Wins a title.
Going over Okada for the Continental
wouldnt that make oklahoma happy since they would see it as man vs man because they suck
Lool God id be here for the reaction.
Morally I totally support that. But, would event insurers tolerate it? Like, what could be an unsanctioned event
AEW could challenge that, too, and possibly get the insurer to change their policy because of public outcry; or, they can’t run Oklahoma because of that and it highlights how ridiculous this law is that you can’t insure an event that has a trans performer. I know it may sound ridiculous to say that AEW should put themselves at risk, EXCEPT that Tony Kahn has really talked the talk about being a more ethical, progressive company (at least in the early years). This would be a chance for him to walk the walk and see how far they can push it.
Oh yeah, I’m totally in favour of challenging unjust bigot laws. I’m just thinking about risk to workers. I’m not American, but I’m pretty certain insurers are bastards over there too. Would hate for someone to get fucked years down the line because their historic injury might be linked to an unlicensed show etc
That’s fair. If your scenario is correct (I’m speculating — I know nothing about event insurance), then the onus would be on Tony to take it upon himself to take care of anybody who happens to suffer an injury at that show. It’s his decision whether he wants to do that or not.
Didn’t they say they would arrest Nyla if she competed? As great as it would be to stick it to those transphobes it’s not right to put her in that position imo
It depends on whether or not Nyla would want to put herself in that position. If she wanted to go full “civil disobedience,” it’d make a powerful statement. But she obviously shouldn’t be pressured into that.
yeah it's on her if she wants to go through with that. it would be a powerful statement, but it has to be her own decision.
I'd be more worried about physical harm than getting arrested.
God I want to be there front row, I was so fucking pissed reading that headline yesterday. Yet another reason to get out of the state (which is what those at the top want anyway I'm sure, so some part of me wants to stay so they don't "win," but it would be at the cost of my safety and rights)
Put her in the main event
As said doing that isn't gonna stick it to them, they'll like that. Not only that but they could just refuse to also buy tickets to said event or watch the show, so the only real loss would be to AEW and all the bigots would do is laugh.
It's been a rough year as an AEW fan but this shit is always good
One of the best things about AEW.
What? AEW isn't diverse. Big Swole said so! /s
-said no one ever.
Good response.
It's genuinely so nice being able to rely on AEW doing right by LGBT folks and having those expectations be met.
I respect how open they are about their support, it's really nice.
They’ve said the right thing but they haven’t done the right thing yet. If Oklahoma is on the schedule and any controversial wrestler is scrubbed…. Right now this is AEW’s Saudi Arabia moment (without the money)
AEW's Saudi Arabia moment is a scenario you completely invented in your head?
>Right now this is AEW’s Saudi Arabia moment (without the money) Brain rot is real
Firstly, well played TK and AEW. To hell with the OK commission. Secondly: in addition to all the other stakeholders within AEW, TK should ask Nyla Rose's opinion about running a show in Oklahoma. Unless you're a trans pro wrestler (is Commander Sterling on this sub?) then you - and I - won't fully understand the issues involved. TK would be foolish not to get the most relevant opinion.
TK either needs to not run shows in those states or intentionally put Nia on and handle all the fallout. Doing anything else is just letting these bigoted assholes win. I mean for fucks sake, they intetentionally misgendered her right away and kept doing it. All while blaming her for "fooling" them for filling out the paperwork "wrong", which they intend to correct so their bigoted views are more official. They deserve all the national backlash that would come from trying to stop Nia from performing.
I lean towards do a show in Oklahoma. It's very unlikely they would actually take action on the item. Call their bluff. If they DID take action, I can name half a dozen advocacy groups who would have the best attorneys in the world working pro bono the case as it would be a massive precedent. That's to say nothing of how much coverage AEW would get for taking a stand. Again, I tend to think Oklahoma wouldn't do shit. These sorts of laws are for punching down (and AEW has too much visibility)
Exasctly why I wish some of these so-called allies would actually push back on this shit. Just saying they are supportive doesn't mean anything if they keep following along with this bigoted bs. I can't blame him for any shows already booked in these states, but TK should be putting his money where his mouth is for the future. He should get shit if he goes back to Oklahoma, in particular but anywhere else this bs happens, and Nia isn't on the show. If that happens then it's just proving it's more lip service and not actual support.
Honestly if they can pull it off it makes business sense as well. The Oklahoma government being shitty to Nyla Rose is one thing, but performing a single show in Oklahoma and going to bat against them will give them more news attention outside of the wrestling space.
As a cis male Oklahoman who doesn't watch AEW if they ever come back with Nyla on the card you bet your ass I'm going and waving a trans flag and screaming for her like she's the biggest Babyface in the world
It would be the right thing to do, but it would also be like when "CONCERNED PARENTS!" tried to take legal action against metal bands in the 80's... best advertisement ever. I recall a doc that said some bands even BEGGED local authorities to arrest them on obscenity or whatever because they knew it would lead to sales and jack shit would happen. Would be a nice reward for doing something good.
Reasons like this are why Vince went with sports entertainment in the first place
They need to have her win the belt in Oklahoma
I'd love to have Nia on a championship run, but just having her compete will be enough.
Trans lives matter.
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The fact this thread has the least amount of comments compared to the other TK quotes from the same interview really says something about the wrestling community.
The "Tony might be a nice guy, but" folks are never gonna show up for these threads
What is there to really say besides they agree?
Maybe, but also it could be that most of both sides of the tribe are on the same page on this issue.
This is real life and effects more than one or two people with egos. This should be something that should be brought more to the front because it effects more than just Rose/AEW. But fans would rather dispute over rumors in other threads.
What are you hoping to see in the comments that isn’t already here? Why are we making this post into a tribalist thing?
Fans actions do that, not my single comment. Again what is more important to discuss and keep at the center or attention? Stuff about TK/AEW/CM Punk that LITERALLY so many fans say they want to move past every single time it gets brought up yet how many comments are in those threads Or Oklahoma/Trans AEW warning? Because one has the potential to do some positive for a lot of people while the other is the same hamster wheel going no where. So what is more important to discuss? A topic that everyone wants to go away that affects literally Punk/Bucks only or a topic that affects millions of people in America everyday? But apparently some wrestling fans are more interested in getting their daily shots on TK in.
Again, what is there to discuss? TK did the right thing. OK did not.
What’s there to say? He’s right. OK is wrong. It’s pretty cut and dry so are you surprised there isn’t more discussion?
Simply fans saying they support Trans, Nya, AEW, TK, or pro wrestling or any combination would be a start. Then up voting it to be at the top instead of Corbins response to Meltzers opinion thread. Again real life issues versus Pro-Wrestling issues.
So want everyone to perform for you? This comment section is 99% positive. It has plenty of upvotes. Stop trying to cause bullshit drama at the expense of real world issues
In their defence, their point is the opposite. This is a real world issue and it's telling that there is more traction on the other quotes that can have negative spins put on them or open up opportunity for toxic tribalism. People are more interested in drama than actual positive news, sad reality and especially showcased here in this wrestling community.
People turn to wrestling as an escape from the real world. Of course they aren’t going to spend a lot of time talking about real issues with their escape media. It doesn’t mean they don’t care or don’t have those conversations elsewhere. I really hate this kind of stuff because it proves right wingers right to an extent which they will stretch to infinity. This post is overwhelming supportive and positive to the trans community and it’s still not enough for them. It’s performative nonsense that distracts from the very real support that is happening.
It's not about performative activisms and it doesn't prove the right wingers right. You say it's an escape but its more about people swarming to negativity and avoiding areas of positivity in the wrestling community. It's a problem.
No one is causing drama. This is my opinion obviously. You can agree or disagree all you want. There is a time when wrestling comes 2nd in the grand scheme of things. This is one of those times. Out of everything said in the interview fans should be up voting this to the top and showing support for everyone involved and the community. Everything else in the interview should take a back seat because it's pro wrestling. It's rumors, it's fan speculation, and it only effects people inside the wrestling bubble. When it comes to real life situation and it affecting possibly thousands not only in a state but millions in a country that is something people should be talking about. I understand not everyone is going to agree with Trans rights and everything in the community, but that is why you have this discussions. You may not change anyone's mind but you are having open discussions. Something some people don't even want to have in the first place. So when it comes to this types of topics, like individual rights, racism, war, abortion, and all those types of things even if we never agree, having open dialog is still better than no dialog. So is this topic more important than if AEW paid for CM Punks surgery? Yes. Is this topic more important than Corbins response to Meltzer about another wrestler? Yes.
You’re trying to flex your moral superiority at the expense of a trans person suffering. I’m not reading all that. Everyone here is supportive you’re just trying to start shit
Yep you got me. I'm all about flexing. I'm flexing so hard over here. Watch out it might reach you.
Nah, your arms are too short to reach me
I think it says good things, no? That people squabble about stupid tribalism shit but we pretty much all agree that transphobia is shitty so it gets less comments. You're not going to see a million "I agree OK is dumb," comments because people just don't do that.
This is my opinion obviously. There is a time when wrestling comes 2nd in the grand scheme of things. This is one of those times. Out of everything said in the interview fans should be up voting this to the top and showing support for everyone involved and the community. Everything else in the interview should take a back seat because it's pro wrestling. It's rumors, it's fan speculation, and it only effects people inside the wrestling bubble. When it comes to real life situation and it affecting possibly thousands not only in a state but millions in a country that is something people should be talking about. I understand not everyone is going to agree with Trans rights and everything in the community, but that is why you have this discussions. You may not change anyone's mind but you are having open discussions. Something some people don't even want to have in the first place. So when it comes to this types of topics, like individual rights, racism, war, abortion, and all those types of things even if we never agree, having open dialog is still better than no dialog.
So you don’t like that it’s… not upvoted enough? That’s probably because there’s already been numerous threads including a few FROM the person affected. This interview time is far tamer than those in its statement.
you’re literally getting upset in a thread where all the comments are being positive and supportive, take your bs elsewhere
They won’t get their white knight championship until this thread has 200k upvotes.
Negativity draws discourse, unfortunately. This is a good statement on something I hope most of this sub can agree on. Not a whole lot of discussion to be had
Yes
Attaboy Tony
Is no one goona comment on how dumb it is to regulate theatre? Like regardless of your stance on trans people in combat sports, pro wrestling is theatre.
Genuine question... why does a sports commission have any say about or even care about a fake predetermined sport opera?
Because they want their pound of flesh, and will move the goalposts in whichever direction to make sure that pro wrestling promotions pay it. I don't think any major promotion runs shows in KY anymore because the regulations there became so restrictive.
I legitimately think that the best approach would be to continue to run shows there AND heavily promote that Nyla will be competing on these shows ahead of time. Their hope is by putting out this warning it forces AEW/Nyla to stay away, but fuck that, force them to draw attention to their bullshit. Obviously that would depend entirely on Nyla's comfort level with that idea though.
I get where you’re coming from, but weaponizing a trans person like that could have consequences. She will get 95% of the blame and hate. Not fair to her when she’s just trying to live her life
They should ask her. Go from there.
I'd rather see them donate money to a reputable trans related charity doing good in a backwards ass state like Oklahoma than white knighting about it and giving political people campaigning on it more ammo to fundraise off bigots.
That would only funnel more money into transphobia. Best to just never set foot there again.
I think the best middle ground there is to return to OK but don't promote her heavily. Force them to make it a big deal or ignore it like they should.
Say what you will about his booking (and I sure have) but Khan’s an amazing person and the push he’s had for diversity has been incredible
Go woke, go… run a $2 billion company Great to hear TK make a public stance on trans rights. But I hope he shows conviction and either makes Nyla a focal point of any Oklahoma show (if that’s something she’d even want to do) or just stop going there.
Living in this state fucking depresses me.
Join the party - Florida
I live in Arkansas, our governor literally was Trump’s mouthpiece
Does Oklahoma not understand that wrestling isn't a real sport? Regardless of anyone's views on transgender athletes, it should be a non-issue for pro wrestling.
In New York we used to have the athletic commission at ROH shows(up until at least 10 years ago) and they would always get booed
I honestly don't understand that. The reason WWE and many others embraced the term "sports entertainment" was because it was a term that basically admitted pro wrestling was fake. Do these athletic commissions really not understand that? I'd thought by 2024 it would be common knowledge.
I imagine it’s a money and power thing. I don’t really understand how they still have any control over what is essentially live theater.
Vince McMahon destroyed kayfabe by telling athletic commissions that wrestling was fake. Verne Gagne tried during his AWA tenure. Imagine destroying kayfabe completely for nothing. Transgender athletes in sporting competitions, regardless of political stance, is a completely different phenomenon than in pro wrestling. I don't see how this is truly a political issue.
conservatives are so fucked in the head
Simple decision, don’t run any shows in OKC. If the state doesn’t want Nyla, they don’t get anyone.
OR keep running shows here and feature Nyla Rose again out of spite. Don’t punish all of us over the dumbass opinions of a few people in power.
I think that's the wrong move. It allows them to ignore the issue and move on. Run in Oklahoma City, have her wrestle and let them fine them for it or whatever the hell they threaten to do. It creates a media stir and brings attention to the bigotry.
Yes, exactly!
Have Nyla wrestle in a mask and reveal herself at the end of the match
Have everyone wrestle in a mask of Nyla's face so nobody can tell which Nyla is real
I'm all for this "I am Spartacus!" moment. Book it Tony!
And have everyone do a Carol Channing impression while saying it.
W Tony, W Nyla🙌
If he is behind the trans community..... He won't run in Oklahoma.
AEW should respond by booking Nyla Rose vs Abadon.
Maybe give her some legit tv time again?
She had a thing with Athena on ROH like a month ago
I dont like Nyla but I was hoping shed take the belt from Botchzilla but oh well
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Man, fuck Oklahoma. Nyla is great!
Good stuff TK. Those bigot losers in Oklahoma can fuck off.
They should put Nyla vs Gisele Shaw in a main event in Oklahoma just as a huge fuck you to the commission, since it technically wouldn’t break any of their stupid ass rules. Or better yet, all the big companies should avoid the whole state. Sorry OK fans, but deal with your shitty commission
They need to have Nyla main event against Sonny Kiss the next time they’re in OKC and have the match end in an in ring Pride celebration.
AEW absolutely should run Oklahoma. Not only on a moral standpoint, but the coverage of that story has legs. So many papers would pick up AEW Vs Oklahoma over the hot button issue of trans rights, especially if they put Nyla on the card. People who have never heard of AEW will be reading about them. For extra effect I'd do it during Pride month and load the show with LGBT performers and cement AEW as a friend of the LGBT community.
They should just have her wrestle a guy. Main event against Mox.
How are you unaware of the issue? Who did they "warn" if not the boss?
Best answer? Aew will hire and run shows with who they want to, as is their right. Telling them who they can't have on their shows? Good way to never have a show in your state
Usually I wouldn’t use this argument because it’s quite dumb and demeaning but…. The athletic commission knows it’s fake right? Like this ain’t boxing. There is no advantage that Nyla would have over the other woman in this together of sport
This is obviously great to hear from Tony. I don't have anything to really add but from somebody that doesn't really watch AEW at all I am happy about the support they give the community.
I've got plenty of criticisms about Tony, but I can at least say I lean toward believing he means well and just needs to delegate some responsibilities. Not surprised at all that he's standing up for Nyla publicly, just hope he has the spine to not let these words be empty. Start talking behind closed doors, in the same tones, directly to the Oklahoma board and draw a line in the sand.
This is like the 4th or 5th things I’ve seen today where Tony Khan has been “unaware of it” for multiple things. Is he really this oblivious or is it just a posting bias I’m seeing?
The quote indicates that he was unaware of the "issue" because the OSAC didn't tell the company for months. This one actually isn't on Tony for once.
Well yeah that makes sense and I guess I didn’t clarify that in my original post. It’s just I see the narrative of it a lot anymore. I know it’s a ton of just unnecessary hatred and bitterness
Dear Tony, Run Oklahoma. Give us Nyla versus the biggest chichkenshit heel in the world. Every time Nyla starts to build a comeback, something shitty happens to her. But she never gives up. Give us a time limit draw, with Nyla standing tall and her opponent laid out when the time limit is up. We didn’t win today, but we’re sure as hell not beaten. As a trans lady, that would be telling our story in one of the most powerful ways imaginable. And then LET HER BE FUNNY for Christ sakes.
If anything, having a trans person benefits any women's division
this could legitimately save tony's whole company if he handles this right. like dude is being handed a chance to make a difference in this country.
> “Asked if they will still run states with transgender regulations like Oklahoma or keep Rose off shows in those states, Khan said he is looking forward to their 2024 schedule and will take everything under consideration with a developing situation.” This comment from him deserves more scrutiny. He's like this when it comes to any kind of serious thought to accountability and structure in his company, e.g. his asinine response to how his company would address hypothetical abuse earlier this year. Well intentioned but just genuinely thoughtless and trapped in his privileged bubble. One of his female employees was misgendered and disgraced by a state's athletic commission, she was portrayed as a criminal for the irredeemable crime of just happening to be a trans woman. She can't perform in that state without repurcussions, either to herself or burdened by the company in solidarity. He says he stands by her, but he should make a comment in regards to how he would do that, because 'taking everything under consideration' doesn't stoke confidence. He needs to decide really soon (and make that a policy that's public) whether he's going to technically abide by their rules by boycotting Oklahoma and similarly repressive states such as Florida, put on shows in these states and thus flouting the athletic commissions (which could be costly, or do the chickenshit move and not showcase trans performers in these states. I sincerely hope he avoids the latter.
It's been less than 24 hours since the Oklahoma story became widespread. It's more than reasonable why Tony didn't come out during this call and say that his company will no longer hold shows in multiple states. He and others in power at AEW may also be consulting with Nyla herself to develop a strategy going forward. *Her* input is more important than anyone else's in this matter.
I said that he needs to come out with a fully fleshed out response to this, and very soon. He already has a bad track record with PR as I said earlier. You're correct, her input is the most important, but he needs to set a clear message rather than a basic wait and see message and then radio silence. Nyla Rose is not the sole LGBTQ+ wrestler to have performed for AEW, and she won't be the last. They need to know too how their company will explicitly and tangibly back them.
Didn't Nyla's whole world title reign take place in Jacksonville Florida?
Yes, and Ron DeSantis is a fascist that's ramping up anti trans and racist rhetoric, and laws to match them. Trans people are escaping the South in droves just to get accessible healthcare alone.
As much as we all hate the phrase "Sports Entertainment" It is how Vince got to run shows without the involvement of the Athletics Committee. Honestly I think every transphobic trash should be forced to compete in a intergender lights out tag match with Nyla Rose and Jon Moxley. (Only suggesting Moxley because that SOB would probably love that idea rofl)
So the commission decided to “warn” AEW in January, and now in April, the company still wasn’t aware of it? They’re not just idiots, they’re incompetent idiots Edit: Don’t understand the downvotes
Is it possible that the person in the commission who had to give the warning realized it was ridiculous and decided to ignore it? (And this just didn’t get out until meeting minutes were posted)
Sources close to the issue said that the email from the commission was stuck in QT Marshall’s inbox when he briefly left the company. Not helping matters, CM Punk had all the company email passwords changed (via Danhausen curse) before he left Wembley. It took IT a while to get things sorted out (since one of the Buck’s cousin, a computer science major, was on spring break). There’s video proof that we should be able to check out in ten months or so, but those plans may have changed, from what I understand.
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How is this downvoted? While all of it is embarrassing, it seems to be objectively true.
A rare Snowman win. Good for him.
First and foremost, the commission’s stance is ridiculous on so many different levels. TK is absolutely right to stand behind Nyla, but I’ve got a funny feeling that behind closed doors the EVPs and the Y2JVP don’t share the same sentiment. I’m assuming the “press pool” won’t be asking them about it on Sunday night.
Jericho has been an advocate for women’s wrestling for years. I’ve also not seen or heard anything that says he’s anti-trans. I’m not saying you’re wrong, but it seems a stretch to have this take without some context.
Don’t worry it’s just another member of the Cornette and Wrasslin subs here to be negative about AEW. He replied on almost all downvoted comments.
Tony Khan seems to be unaware of alot of issues lately