Mick Foley has opened up about the biggest difference he noticed between AEW President Tony Khan and former WWE chairman Vince McMahon, offering a unique perspective after recently joining AEW’s broadcast team.
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Foley reflected on his experiences around wrestling management and explained why Khan’s approach stood out to him.
While he stopped short of criticizing McMahon, the WWE Hall of Famer highlighted a contrast that caught his attention backstage.
Mick Foley compares Tony Khan and Vince McMahon’s leadership styles
Foley, who debuted on AEW’s Double or Nothing pre-show on May 24, described Khan’s presence behind the curtain as something that immediately left an impression on him.
“To see Tony backstage, it’s really… the word I’m coming up with is joyous. Because he’s filled with joy in that position,” Foley said.
According to Foley, Khan’s enthusiasm is visible in the way he interacts with talent and staff throughout an event.
“He jumps up, the first thing he does is ask people if they’re okay. He’s happy, he’s really happy.”
The hardcore legend noted that there is no single formula for success in wrestling. However, he admitted that Khan’s style would have suited him personally during his active career.
“I’ve said many times, there’s no one way to cross the finish line, whether it’s wrestling or portraying Santa Claus or whether it’s producing a pay-per-view show,” Foley explained.
Foley then expanded on why Khan’s approach resonates with him.
“But I have to tell you, as a guy who always reacted better to a pat on the back than a kick in the butt, I would have really enjoyed that style.”
While praising Khan, Foley also acknowledged McMahon’s different leadership philosophy.
“Mr. McMahon had his own style, and of course, when he put you over, it meant a lot — he didn’t do it nearly as much. He didn’t jump up from his seat to meet the talent that was coming through.”
The comments offer an interesting glimpse behind the curtain at two influential wrestling executives. As Foley continues his new chapter in AEW, his observations provide another perspective on how different leadership styles can shape a locker room environment.
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