Tony Khan says WWE star is ‘one of the best of the modern era’ – TJR Wrestling

According to Tony Khan, a WWE star is one of the greatest.

One of the biggest talking points of 2025 is shaping up to be John Cena’s retirement after he announced his impending departure from Money In The Bank. Ironically, the year is shaping up to be Cena’s most active in-ring year in years, as he will make his final appearance at the Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, and more.

As Cena prepares to hang up his boots, talks are raging about his place among the greats. The veteran is arguably the most successful star in WWE history, having dominated the company for over a decade.

During a new appearance on Maggie & Perloff, AEW boss Tony Khan was asked about Cena’s legacy and whether he would invite him to his personal wrestling match Mount Rushmore.

“He would definitely be someone that everyone should consider, definitely, especially in the modern era. For me, a lot of the people on my Mount Rushmore are probably people that I grew up with. Not just a fan of, but people that I’ve had the privilege of working with later in life. Sting is at the top for me. It’s a lot of guys that I grew up with on my Mount Rushmore. Ricky ‘The Dragon’ Steamboat and Bret Hart and Steve Austin. I would have to think of Ric Flair. A lot of great options for that. John Cena is one of the best wrestlers and certainly one of the greatest of this modern era, without a doubt,” Khan said.

Tony Khan Gets Two Former WWE Stars

Meanwhile, Tony Khan has secured the arrivals of Mason Madden (Mace) and Mansoor.

The ex-WWE pair were released by the company on September 21, 2023, and entered the independent scene, appearing for the likes of GCW. Before signing with Tony Khan, the duo were also reportedly in talks with TNA Wrestling.

Elsewhere, it was reported that Ricochet is expected to sign with AEW in the coming weeks.

The star’s agent was backstage during the July 3 episode of Dynamite, and the deal was expected to close “soon.” Ricochet became a free agent on July 1 after letting his contract expire.

Thanks to Fightful