AEW was founded in January 2019 following the success of the independent event “All In” in 2018. Officially launched by Tony Khan, with significant backing from the Khan family, AEW positioned itself as a top-tier wrestling promotion to rival WWE. Cody Rhodes, Kenny Omega, and The Young Bucks contributed as performers and executives. AEW quickly established itself with innovative matches, storylines, and broadcasting its flagship show, Dynamite, starting in May 2019. The company rapidly expanded, partnering internationally and acquiring Ring of Honor in 2022. AEW programs are now broadcast in over 220 territories and 50 languages, making it the second-largest wrestling promotion globally.