Tony Khan Reveals Andy Williams Had Been In Recent Talks With AEW

The professional wrestling world has been in mourning over the last week following the tragic passing of ‘The Butcher’ Andy Williams after he collapsed at an independent event, leading to tributes pouring in from wrestlers, musicians, and fans. On Saturday September 12, AEW hosted a special episode of Collision in tribute to Williams, and prior to the event, AEW’s Tony Khan revealed that the two sides had actually been in talks. 

Taking to social media in a livestream, Tony Khan spoke ahead of the Andy Williams-centered edition of AEW Collision, revealing that Williams had been in discussions with AEW about a manner of things. 

“In recent weeks, Andy had been in conversations with AEW about things outside of the ring. Andy passed away as a very young man at 48 years old. In recent weeks, he had said, ‘I don’t think I’m gonna be able to wrestle forever.’ Andy had ideas for AEW promotions and how he could contribute backstage. Andy just had a few weeks ago, in August, Andy had meetings with my staff that I set up. I was interested in Andy continuing here out of the ring.”  

Williams and his tag team partner of The Blade had officially exited AEW earlier in 2026 after six years with the promotion. 

H/T Fightful