Tony Khan Reveals The Butcher Discussed Backstage AEW Role Before His Death

Posted By: Ben Kerin on Sep 13, 2026

Tony Khan has revealed that “The Butcher” Andy Williams had been discussing a future behind the scenes in AEW in the weeks before his death.

Speaking during a social media live video ahead of AEW Collision on September 12, Khan shared that Williams had ideas for supporting the company outside the ring. Those discussions included meetings with AEW staff in August, which Khan had arranged.

“In recent weeks, Andy [Williams] had been in conversations with AEW about things outside of the ring. Andy passed away as a very young man at 48 years old. In recent weeks, he had said, ‘I don’t think I’m gonna be able to wrestle forever.’ Andy had ideas for AEW promotions and how he could contribute backstage. Andy just had a few weeks ago, in August, Andy had meetings with my staff that I set up. I was interested in Andy continuing here out of the ring,” Khan said.

Khan’s comments offered a glimpse into the next chapter Williams had been considering, with the AEW president keen for him to continue contributing beyond his wrestling career.

Williams passed away on September 5 at the age of 48. AEW honoured his memory during the September 12 edition of Collision, with tributes celebrating his life and career.