Will Hobbs Issues Statement Following Criticism Of Diversity In AEW

Will 'Powerhouse' Hobbs has taken to social media to issue a statement concerning the recent criticism from some quarters about AEW's diversity in the roster and staff. 

Former AEW talent Big Swole claimed recently on her podcast that diversity was an issue in AEW, despite a number of talent from minority backgrounds winning on AEW television in recent weeks.

AEW President Tony Khan responded to Big Swole's claims, noting that he and Chief Legal Officer Megha Parekh are two of the company's top executives and are also people of colour, while listing others who have won matches on television in the past few weeks.

Hobbs has now issued his own take on the situation on Twitter:

"It often flies under the radar that Tony and Megha are people of color, and having them in charge of AEW represents progress for pro wrestling. I see firsthand how hard they’re working to make wrestling more diverse.

"I want you all to know that I consider Tony and Megha family, and I’m disappointed to see their efforts dismissed. People have no idea the time and effort it takes to put shows on and to make AEW an open environment where people like me are seen and heard.

"Tony works hand in hand with people of color on the roster all the time about their story ideas, input, matches, etc. Not every idea will work, but every idea is listened to and valued. My personal voice has been heard and I’ve had input for many of my opportunity. As a Black make, I plan on using my voice to do what I can to make sure that this company is diverse. I’m also very aware that diversity comes in many forms — Women, Black, Latinx, East Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, LGBTQ+ and more. The more diversity, equity and inclusion we can build in wrestling, the more fans we can engage with, and the more fun we can all have together.

"AEW is a young company led by people of color heading in the right direction. I’m proud to be a part of that momentum, and I know my colleagues stand beside me when I say that."