Running a major wrestling promotion like All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is no small task, and Tony Khan, as the company’s president, has devoted much of his time to keeping the brand strong. However, this commitment has led to criticism from Bill Simmons, CEO of The Ringer, who believes Khan’s focus on AEW is hurting his role as Chief Football Strategy Officer for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Bill Simmons’ Harsh Take on Tony Khan
On a recent episode of his podcast, Bill Simmons expressed frustration over the Jaguars’ lack of success in the NFL. He pointed out that despite being in charge of the team’s football strategy, Khan appears more invested in AEW than in the Jaguars’ performance.
Simmons stated:
“I don’t think the Jaguars will ever get it. And one of the reasons they’ll never get it is because the owner’s son, who runs the team, also runs AEW and writes all the scripts for it every week. And I just don’t think they’re on the ball is my take.”
According to Simmons, this divided attention may be one of the reasons why the Jaguars struggle to compete at the highest level.
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Struggles Under the Khan Family
Tony Khan’s father, Shahid Khan, purchased the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2012. Since then, the team has had limited success, only making the NFL playoffs twice, with their most recent appearance in 2022. The Jaguars have yet to reach or win a Super Bowl, leading to further scrutiny over the franchise’s management.
While Tony Khan has stated that he takes his football responsibilities seriously, critics like Simmons believe his primary focus remains AEW, where he recently announced even greater control over creative decisions.
Tony Khan’s Growing Role in AEW
Despite the criticism, Khan’s dedication to AEW has led to its growth as a leading wrestling promotion. Since its launch in 2019, AEW has built a loyal fanbase and developed major storylines, including the latest involving Jon Moxley, who now stands as AEW’s “One True King.”
Following AEW Revolution 2025, the biggest question in the company is who will challenge Moxley for the AEW World Championship. With Khan taking more creative control, AEW fans can expect even more intriguing storylines and high-stakes matchups in the coming months.
Balancing AEW and the Jaguars: Can Tony Khan Do Both?
While Khan remains passionate about AEW, the ongoing debate is whether he can successfully balance both his wrestling empire and his role with the Jaguars. With critics like Bill Simmons questioning his commitment to football, it remains to be seen whether Khan will shift more focus toward the NFL franchise or continue prioritizing AEW’s creative success.
Regardless of the criticism, AEW continues to thrive, while the Jaguars still struggle to find consistent success. For now, Tony Khan’s biggest battle might not be in the wrestling ring but in proving he can manage both worlds effectively.
FAQs
What did Bill Simmons say about Tony Khan?
Bill Simmons criticized Tony Khan for focusing more on AEW than his role with the Jacksonville Jaguars, saying the team will ‘never get it.’
Does Tony Khan still work with the Jacksonville Jaguars?
Yes, Tony Khan is the Chief Football Strategy Officer for the Jaguars, but his growing involvement in AEW has raised questions about his commitment.
How successful have the Jaguars been under the Khan family?
Since Shahid Khan purchased the team in 2012, the Jaguars have made the NFL playoffs twice but have never reached the Super Bowl.
What is Tony Khan’s role in AEW?
Tony Khan is the President of AEW and has taken greater control over the company’s creative direction in 2025.
Who is the current AEW World Champion?
As of AEW Revolution 2025, Jon Moxley is the AEW World Champion, setting up a major storyline for his next challenger.
Will Tony Khan step back from AEW or the Jaguars?
There is no official indication that Tony Khan will step away from either role, but ongoing criticism may influence future decisions.
