More information about QT Marshall’s deparure from AEW has come to light.
QT Marshall, who had worked for AEW as a Vice President, Manager of Talent Relations, and on-screen talent, announced his resignation from the promotion on November 27.
Nick Hausman of Haus of Wrestling reports that Marshall’s influence backstage waned following Cody Rhodes’ exit, and QT had been vocal about wanting to perform in the ring, rather than coaching backstage.
In Marshall’s announcement, he noted that he believed the company had changed, and it was heading in a different direction. Per sources close to Marshall, QT was “alluding” to his belief that AEW is heading in a “more NJPW-related direction that is more focused on matches than storytelling.
Additionally, Hausman cites sources who noted that Marshall does not currently believe that WWE will let him wrestle and coach. Hausman notes that QT has a school where he can coach, and he is primarily interested in wrestling for WWE.
The report also cites sources close to the WWE side who indicated that they were skeptical that WWE would be interested in bringing Marshall in as a performer. However, his creativity was highlighted as a plus. While a coaching role was not ruled out, sources pointed out that WWE has plenty of quality people in backstage roles.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Live, Dave Meltzer stated that many in AEW were aware for months that Marshall would be leaving, as it was not a secret. Marshall was said to be well-liked in NXT.
Details On QT Marshall’s Stance On Creative
WrestlePurists reports even more information, as they note that Marshall was a key voice backstage in champion for a more entertainment-based approach to wrestling TV. Marshall was said to lean on more of a characters/entertainment approach. He reportedly feel that he could contribute more on-screen in that aspect.
Sources state that Marshall was not a fan of some of the changes in AEW creative. He believed the company was not telling great stories like they used to. WrestlePurists echoes the report that Marshall felt the company was heading in more of a NJPW-like direction.
Update On QT Marshall And AEW Collision
Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful (via Fightful Select) has confirmed WrestlePurists’ report that CM Punk did not want QT Marshall on AEW Collision. WrestlePurists writes that Tony Khan took the blame for the removal of QTV from AEW Collision. This was said to have damaged his relationship with Marshall. The report notes that Marshall did not believe Khan, as he felt that Punk was behind his removal.
Per Sapp, Marshall was set to be primarily working on AEW Collision, but Punk nixed it. However, Sapp writes that, per sources, Marshall did not resign due to the report regarding the NJPW-leaning direction.
WrestleZone will provide more information as it becomes available.
