Orange Cassidy, one of the biggest stars in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), wasn’t initially on founder Tony Khan’s radar when he was being considered for signing. AEW Executive Vice Presidents Matthew and Nicholas Jackson, also known as the Young Bucks, revealed in a recent interview that Khan wasn’t very high on Cassidy at first. They had to convince Khan of Cassidy’s potential and it took some time for him to come around. However, once Khan saw Cassidy’s popularity and success, he admitted that he wasn’t aware of Cassidy before but recognized his appeal to fans and TNT executives.
Cassidy’s career started in the early 2010s on the indie circuit, gaining recognition in promotions like Chikara and Beyond Wrestling. His unique blend of humor and athleticism caught the attention of fans, and he eventually signed with AEW. The Young Bucks played a crucial role in bringing Cassidy to AEW, recognizing the potential of his unconventional character and wrestling style. Cassidy found success in AEW, holding titles such as the AEW All-Atlantic Championship and becoming a two-time AEW International Champion. He also made history by winning the Casino Tag Team Royale in 2023 alongside Danhausen.
Despite not being initially interested in signing Cassidy, Khan has shown support for him and acknowledged his impact on AEW. In a 2020 interview with ESPN, Khan praised Cassidy for becoming a big merchandise mover and a favorite among TNT executives. Cassidy, in turn, has spoken highly of Khan, describing him as incredible and generous. He appreciates Khan’s openness to different styles of professional wrestling and his support for the wrestlers during the pandemic. Cassidy credits Khan for allowing wrestlers to showcase their talents and for providing stability for the company and its employees.
Cassidy’s popularity continues to grow within AEW and the wrestling community. His character, which he describes as a “giant middle finger to professional wrestling,” has resonated with fans and helped differentiate him from other wrestlers. His comedic approach and laid-back persona have made him a fan favorite, and he has proven himself as a talented performer in the ring. With the support of Khan and the AEW leadership, Cassidy has been able to thrive and make a name for himself in the wrestling world.
As AEW continues to grow and evolve, Cassidy’s presence will likely remain a key part of its success. His unique style and connection with fans have made him a valuable asset to the promotion, and his accomplishments in AEW have solidified his place as a top star. With the ongoing support of Khan and the Young Bucks, Cassidy will have the opportunity to further showcase his talents and entertain audiences around the world.
