AEW has a lot going on, and they are always building toward that next step. That being said, a full training program to build wrestlers from the ground up hasnt come to fruition just yet.
AEW had internal talks earlier this year about building a dedicated training center similar to WWEs Performance Center. The idea included a full development system and was reportedly set to be based in Asheville, North Carolina. At one point, Ace Steel was rumored to lead the effort before leaving the company. This would have been a much larger project with a coaching lineup featuring Dax Harwood, Cash Wheeler, Beth Phoenix, and Adam Copeland. The goal was to create a clear path for talent development.
The plan got far enough along that some talent, like Stings son Steven Borden, were reportedly preparing to train in Asheville. But ultimately, the project was halted because it would have simply cost too much. AEW did have the Nightmare Factory for a while, but that relationship dried up when Cody Rhodes left for WWE.
During the media call today, Tony Khan dove into this report about AEW building a Performance Center. When asked about reports that AEW had scrapped its plans for a developmental facility in Asheville, North Carolina, Tony Khan said he is still interested in opening a facility and was surprised to see the report. He explained that sometimes reports only reflect part of the story.
Tony Khan also brought up the current storyline involving FTR, Adam Copeland, and Christian Cage. He said he hopes they can repair their relationship, as he still wants them to be involved in an AEW-affiliated school in Asheville. He didnt shut down the idea of AEW opening their own Performance Center school, thats for sure.
AEW has their own practice ring, but its nothing on the scale that WWE does with their Performance Center setup. Only time will tell if AEW goes all in with a Performance Center operation. They certainly have a lot of veteran talent at their disposal, and there are plenty of young pro wrestling stars who would love to learn under AEWs roof.
What's your take on AEW possibly building their own Performance Center? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
