Mark Henry criticizes AEW's management and asks for more power for the veterans

Since leaving AEW, Mark Henry has become one of the most controversial critics. In an interview with TMZ Sports, the WWE Hall of Famer pointed out that Tony Khan's company needs to give more voice to experienced wrestlers if they want to compete in the long term.

When asked about what All Elite Wrestling should do to narrow the gap with WWE and TNA, Henry was clear: the key lies in former champions. "I think the number one thing that would really make a difference is letting the people who were champions have more weight in the decisions, and not just about friendships or personal relationships," he commented.

Tony has his hands in everything and wants to do what he wants to do. If I were a millionaire, I'd probably do the same. But you need structure, not just passion.

Comparing the internal dynamics with WWE, Henry explained that there the system doesn't stifle creativity, but rather channels it in an organized way: "In WWE, everything revolves around structure, planning... it's a negotiation, but you have to be able to contribute ideas. If you don't have good ideas, you better stay quiet."

Mark Henry was part of AEW between 2021 and 2024 as an analyst and coach, in addition to having a role in AEW Rampage. His departure sparked debate about the lack of real influence of legends in the company's growth, and now his statements reinforce the idea that the company should rethink how it leverages the experience of those who have already succeeded in the industry.