AEW President Tony Khan revealed that teh company’s original plan for its flagship television show, Dynamite,‍ nearly debuted on one ⁤of the most iconic stages in sports and entertainment: Madison Square Garden.

Speaking to the live audience during the Dynamite ‍on 34th⁤ Street tapings at ⁢the hammerstein ‍Ballroom in New york City on December 20, 2023, Khan disclosed that the⁢ very first episode of ‍ AEW Dynamite was ⁢initially scheduled ⁣to take place at Madison Square Garden.Wrestling news Source first⁤ reported the news.

The Original vision: A Grand Debut

Khan explained that the ambition from⁣ the outset was to make a significant statement‍ with Dynamite‘s ⁢launch. He envisioned starting ⁢with a major event at Madison Square Garden⁣ to immediately establish AEW as a major player in professional wrestling. The Garden, with its ⁢rich history and prestige, was seen as the perfect‍ venue to signal⁣ AEW’s arrival.

Why the Change of Plans?

While Khan⁣ didn’t detail the specific reasons for the change of venue, he alluded to logistical challenges and timing⁤ constraints. The⁢ initial⁢ date for⁢ Dynamite‘s debut, October⁢ 2, 2019, presented ‍difficulties in securing the Garden and coordinating ‍all the necessary elements for a ‍large-scale production. Ultimately, the decision was made to launch Dynamite at the capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.⁣ instead.

The first episode ‍of AEW Dynamite aired on October 2, 2019, at the Capital One Arena, featuring a main event between Chris Jericho‍ and Kenny Omega. The show drew a live attendance of 11,600 and was broadcast on TNT.

Madison Square Garden: A Recurring Goal

Despite not hosting the ⁤inaugural episode, Madison Square⁢ Garden has remained a significant goal for⁤ AEW. The company has held several major events ⁢at⁣ the venue, ‍including Grand Slam in 2021 and Grand Slam in 2022. These events have consistently drawn large crowds ‍and⁣ positive reviews,⁢ demonstrating AEW’s growing popularity and ability to fill major arenas.