Tony Khan Reveals SHOCKING Truth About AEW's 5.5-Hour Shows - WWE vs AEW Runtime Wars Explained | Coach and Bro | November 24, 2025

Full Podcast Summary/Notes (Timestamped) Opening Discussion - AEW Show Length Controversy (0:00 - 15:00) The hosts discuss Tony Khan's recent explanation for AEW's extended show lengths, specifically addressing the 5.5-hour Full Gear event. Khan revealed that contractual obligations with their pay-per-view distributor require a minimum 4-hour runtime, though this doesn't explain the additional 1.5 hours.

Key Points:

• AEW Full Gear ran 5.5 hours on Saturday
• Tony Khan claims contractual minimum of 4 hours required
• Hosts question the extra 1.5 hours beyond contractual obligation
• Discussion of pre-show content padding

WWE vs AEW Programming Philosophy (15:00 - 35:00) Comparison between WWE's recent programming changes and AEW's approach to show length. The hosts note WWE's positive reception for reducing Raw to 2.5 hours before moving to Netflix, while questioning the return to 3-hour SmackDown format.

Key Points:

• WWE learned from audience feedback on show length
• Raw's 2.5-hour format received positive fan response
• SmackDown returning to 3 hours raises questions
• Fan loyalty vs. practical viewing experience

"Less Is More" Entertainment Philosophy (35:00 - 55:00) Deep dive into the fundamental entertainment principle that drives successful programming across wrestling and sports broadcasting. The host emphasizes this as the first lesson learned in entertainment production.

Key Points:

• Core principle: "Less is more, more is too much"
• Natural instinct to over-deliver content
• Example: Giving 8 reasons when 2 would suffice
• Translates to time management and audience retention
• Wrestling industry's tendency to "show intelligence" hurts product

Product Quality vs. Quantity Debate (55:00 - 75:00) Analysis of how extended show lengths can water down wrestling products, with both companies struggling to find the optimal balance between content volume and quality.

Key Points:

• Both companies risk product dilution through length
• Fan loyalty doesn't always translate to viewing endurance
• Even dedicated AEW fans acknowledge show length issues
• Industry-wide problem, not company-specific

Behind the Scenes Insights (75:00 - 82:40) The hosts wrap up with personal experiences from wrestling and sports broadcasting, emphasizing the importance of restraint in content delivery.

Key Points:

• Personal anecdotes from WWE pre-show experience
• Sports broadcasting parallels with wrestling production
• Thanksgiving show schedule announcement
• Team appreciation and show growth acknowledgment

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