A former WWE executive has offered a candid look at All Elite Wrestling’s perception inside WWE during its early years. He suggested the promotion was not initially considered a major threat despite its growing momentum.
Speaking about the relationship between the two companies, he reflected on WWE’s perception of AEW after its launch in 2019.
Road Dogg’s comments provide fresh insight into a rivalry that has helped reshape the modern wrestling landscape.
Road Dogg says WWE misjudged AEW’s staying power
During an appearance on Busted Open, Road Dogg was asked whether WWE viewed AEW as a legitimate battle opponent during his final years with the company. His answer was straightforward.
“No, we didn’t, and we probably should have,” Dogg said. “Instead, I think it was looked at like, ‘Oh that’s this other little money mark’s company.’ I honestly think that’s how it was looked at.”
The WWE Hall of Famer, who worked behind the scenes in WWE from 2014 until March 2025, acknowledged that perception proved inaccurate as AEW continued to establish itself within the industry.
“I would argue that, however long we are into their tenure, that was wrong to be looking at it that way,” Dogg continued. “They’re still here, they’re still strong, they’re getting stronger.”
Dogg specifically pointed to AEW’s addition of Mike Mansury as a positive development for the company.
“Adding Mike Mansury was a huge step in the right direction. He’s a smart guy with good instincts,” he said.
The comments stand in contrast to some of the dismissive attitudes that surrounded AEW during its launch period. While WWE never appeared to treat the situation like another Monday Night War, Dogg now believes the company underestimated the promotion’s ability to grow and remain competitive.
His remarks also come just months after departing WWE, where he most recently served as SmackDown’s co-head writer. Despite stepping away from the company, Dogg made it clear he still wants to contribute to professional wrestling.
As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, his comments serve as a reminder that AEW was far more than a passing fad — and that first impressions don’t always score the winning pinfall.
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