Jeff Jarrett Explains What AEW Needs To Make France A Regular Market

All Elite Wrestling is preparing for its historical French debut with AEW Grand Slam: France at the Adidas Arena in Paris, marking another major milestone in the promotion’s international expansion strategy.

Ahead of the event, AEW executive and veteran performer Jeff Jarrett sat down with Kickout to discuss the significance of entering the French market and what factors will dictate whether the country becomes a permanent fixture on AEW’s touring calendar.

The Atmosphere Of Live Wrestling In Paris

Reflecting on AEW’s global expansion, Jarrett emphasized that no broadcast product can replicate the raw energy of fans experiencing professional wrestling in person.

“It’s huge. It’s all about professional wrestling or any kind of form of sport or entertainment. There’s nothing like seeing it live. I’ve been in the professional wrestling business for three generations, and it’s a global sport now. It’s seen all over the world, but there’s nothing like experiencing it live. You know, last month we were in Wembley Stadium, and so, you know, with the vibe and the electricity that is in that stadium, and we travel the brand all over, but there’s nothing like seeing it live, and that’s what Grand Slam at the Adidas Arena is gonna be very special.”

Television Distribution And Scheduling Consistency

When asked what specific benchmarks must be met for AEW to establish France as a regular touring destination, Jarrett pointed directly to media distribution and schedule availability.

“Our television partner. Warner Next, Warner TV. We have a wonderful relationship with them really all over the globe, specifically on TBS and TNT in America. But for here, it all starts with that distribution partner, and so it’s very strong. So we have to continue to grow that relationship. That’d be first and foremost, and then again, there’s only so much time. 52 Wednesdays, 52 Saturdays for Dynamite (and) Collision and then we have our premium live events. So a consistency in the market is paramount as well.”

With AEW’s television footprint expanding across European markets, strong media partnerships combined with careful calendar planning remain the cornerstone of their international growth strategy.