Backstage News on AEW Big Production Changes – AEW has made a series of production changes over the past year, with the most noticeable revolving around its ring and barricade presentation. For much of 2024, the company phased out LED aprons and barricades, opting for a stripped-down setup that featured traditional ring aprons and guardrails. That move was said to be motivated in part by wrestler safety and audience response.
When AEW launched its new television deal with HBO Max earlier this year, the LED boards returned. While the upgrade gave broadcasts a more modern, high-tech look, talent quickly noticed the downside: the equipment is considerably less forgiving. At Forbidden Door, several wrestlers and fans pointed out that bumps against the LED surfaces looked and felt rougher than the standard barricades, which are softer and easier to absorb impacts on.
Behind the scenes, the debate continues. Wrestlers and production staff generally favor the classic setup, noting that it reduces the risk of nagging injuries and makes matches flow more naturally without performers needing to work around the hard LED structures. On the other hand, AEW’s leadership sees the boards as an important part of presenting a big-league visual product, especially now that the company is pushing for greater visibility through its deal with HBO Max.
The trade-off between presentation value and performer safety is a familiar one in wrestling, but AEW’s quick shifts over the past year highlight how much input both talent and audience feedback can have on production decisions. For now, the LED aprons and barricades appear to be here to stay, even if not everyone is thrilled with their return.
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Backstage News on AEW Big Production Changes
