Tony Khan Reacts as AEW Double or Nothing Named 2025 Wrestling Show of the Year

AEW is closing out 2025 with major recognition, as All Elite Wrestling’s Double or Nothing pay-per-view was named Wrestling Show of the Year by Sports Illustrated. The honor came through the Sports Illustrated Wrestling Awards and immediately drew a public response from AEW President Tony Khan.

Double or Nothing served as one of AEW’s flagship premium live events in 2025. The card featured multiple headline bouts and long-running storylines reaching key turning points. The main event featured Hangman Page defeating Will Ospreay in the finals of the Men’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. Coverage throughout the year frequently cited the show for its pacing, crowd engagement, and match variety. That response appears to have carried weight with Sports Illustrated’s annual awards panel.

Reposting Double or Nothing’s venue, Desert Diamond Arena’s tweet, Khan shared his reaction on X, thanking Sports Illustrated for the award and crediting the collective effort behind the event. He highlighted the wrestlers, production staff, fans, and the on-site team at Arizona’s Desert Diamond Arena for helping deliver a standout show.

“Thank you for hosting #AEWDoN! Everyone in AEW is very proud of the team of the @AEW wrestlers, staff, the AEW fans, + everyone at the @DDArenaAZ who helped make AEW Double or Nothing the best Wrestling Show this year per @SInow in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Wrestling Awards!”

As AEW heads toward its 2026 calendar, the Sports Illustrated recognition adds momentum to its pay-per-view brand. While awards do not dictate future booking, they often influence perception among casual viewers and sponsors.

Thank you for hosting #AEWDoN!

Everyone in AEW is very proud of the team of the @AEW wrestlers, staff, the AEW fans, + everyone at the @DDArenaAZ who helped make AEW Double or Nothing the best Wrestling Show this year per @SInow in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Wrestling Awards! https://t.co/1PGfkr4Q91

— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) December 24, 2025