WWE and AEWs existence has created a tribalism in the pro wrestling fan base. Some people will ignore one of the options entirely, but people like Tony Schiavone have a reason to stay focused on AEW.
On a recent episode of his What Happened When podcast, Tony Schiavone discussed his viewing habits regarding professional wrestling and explained why he avoids watching current WWE programming. Needless to say, he favors his current employer over the competition.
Tony Schiavone said that his choice is based on wanting AEW to develop its own direction without outside influence. Hes not watching anything that WWE is currently putting out.
Tony Schiavone noted that his decision does not extend to older wrestling content. He said that he still watches classic matches and promotions, including past WWE, NXT, and ECW shows. He then gave flowers to Mercedes Mone for what she did with Bayley as Sasha Banks back in the day.
Tony Schiavone added that avoiding the modern WWE product helps him maintain focus on his work with AEW. He doesnt want WWE to influence anything hes doing in AEW.
The current stuff, Ill just watch our stuff and not let anything they do in the WWE influence how I call a match or what I do, Tony Schiavone concluded. It doesnt sound like hes watching WWE, but hes still tuning in to see AEW every week.
Tony Schiavone serves as a lead announcer and senior producer for All Elite Wrestling. He has maintained that role since the companys conception, and although the lineup on the commentary team has changed, Schiavone is still around.
Whats your take on Tony Schiavone staying away from WWEs current product? Do you think AEW or WWE has the best television shows right now? Let us know what you think in the comments section!
