QT Marshall On AEW Running Intimate Venues: ‘Better Energy, Better Atmosphere’

QT Marshall shares his thoughts on AEW’s recent shift in philosophy, the decision to hold shows in more intimate venues, and more.

QT Marshall has been a key part of All Elite Wrestling since its inception. In the six years since AEW began running shows, it has undergone several phases. Currently, AEW is focused on hosting events in smaller, more intimate venues. While this limits the size of the audience, it also creates a more packed venue and an electric atmosphere for the performers.

QT Marshall recently spoke about AEW’s decision to run smaller venues and hold residencies in specific markets during an interview with Stephen Jensen and Jeremy Lambert on Fightful Overbooked’s The Spotlight. Marshall shared his perspective on why smaller venues are better for the brand at this time and why booking smaller venues is a smart move when planning residencies.

“I think we were getting really good deals on bigger arenas, so that’s probably why we took them. At the same time, if we can’t fill a 15,000-seat arena…I think our sweet spot is 3 to 5 thousand for Dynamite and 2 to 4 (thousand) for Collision. These smaller buildings have really helped out to bring the emotion from the crowd. When you’re in a huge building and it’s not full, fans can be timid to make noise. We have a better atmosphere and there is better energy in the building. They are great.

“Being able to bring AEW to a city for longer than just one day probably helps out in establishing it as a wrestling city. Chicago has always been our spot, we always wanted to go there. Tony being a fan fo ECW and the ECW Arena, being able to go to 2300. Arlington and Esport was probably a package deal for All In and working with the city of Arlington. Deep down, I’m hoping for one in Atlanta. It’s good to have these smaller buildings. Our pay-per-views, that’s one thing we do better than anyone, ever. Those will be those bigger buildings. With a residency, the smaller building is definitely the way to go.”

QT Marshall’s 1FW promotion is running the storied Center Stage venue in Atlanta, Georgia, on Friday, July 25. Fans can purchase tickets for 1FW Summer Stage at this link.

Check out the full interview with QT Marshall embedded above.