Paul Wight has offered one of the most honest and self-aware assessments of his professional future that any veteran performer has delivered in recent memory. Speaking on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, the former WWE and AEW star addressed his current status with remarkable clarity and humility.
“I understand there’s a short window left. I’m not in any way, shape or form delusional that I’m going to go out and compete for championships and pull the wagon — those days are done. In fairness to the younger talent that’s digging and striving now, they don’t need to see my ass every week taking up TV time and ring time. There’s nothing I can do that’s going to make my career any bigger or better,” Wight said.
Paul Wight Says He Wants to Enjoy His Final AEW Years by Helping Younger Talent and Having Fun
Rather than chasing one more spotlight moment, Wight described a mindset focused entirely on giving back and enjoying what remains of his time in the industry. “All I can do is enjoy some of the last years that I have under contract with AEW and hopefully have some fun with some of the younger talent and teach them some of the lessons that have been passed down to me. I’m in a really good spot. I got a good boss that believes in me, supports me, and gives me an opportunity to be a part of the business.” Wight has not wrestled in AEW since November 2023, underwent back surgery in December 2025, and has been documenting a significant weight loss journey on social media — reporting being down to 390 pounds in February 2026. Whether he returns to in-ring competition remains unknown, though he has continued contributing to AEW as a commentary presence throughout the year.