Jake Hager has issued new criticism of AEW, claiming the company collapsed after Cody Rhodes left in 2022. In an interview, Hager argued that Tony Khan neglected the promotion once Rhodes, who played a major role in the creative process, was gone.
According to Hager, Rhodes’ absence created a leadership void that left the creative structure in chaos. Without him, ideas flowed freely from those around Khan, but no one had the authority to challenge his decisions. Hager said production meetings were scrapped entirely, leaving talent to learn their roles around 5 p.m. on show days.
Content continues after the ad
Communication issues extended to Khan himself. Hager recalled that even Chris Jericho had trouble reaching the AEW president, sometimes going weeks without replies. For those pitching new ideas, access was limited to late-night windows after shows, often resulting in brief or vague responses. Hager described one of his own pitches being dismissed with little discussion.
These remarks add to a string of criticisms Hager has directed at Khan in recent days. He previously labeled him a “daddy’s billionaire” and accused him of unprofessional behavior, including yelling at talent. He also pointed to a talent meeting held after the Brawl Out incident, which he claimed Khan disrupted with shouting. However, FTR publicly denied that version of events, saying Khan never interrupted the meeting.
Hager’s frustration also involved contractual disputes he called “one-sided” and creative rejection, including Khan dismissing his idea to reinvent his character in a style inspired by Groot.
After reflecting on these experiences, Hager announced his retirement from pro wrestling. He said he regretted his time in AEW and revealed he no longer watches the product.
