Private Party are taking fans down memory lane to their early days in AEW. In a recent episode of Talk Is Jericho, the duo shared how they transitioned from tiered contracts to their first salaried dealssomething that changed their lives forever.
The journey began in April 2019 when Kassidy and Quen made their big announcement: they were officially All Elite. Just months later, the pair stepped into the AEW spotlight at Fyter Fest, squaring off in a three-way tag match against Best Friends and SCU. The match was a showstopper, and it led to a major offer from AEW brass.
I didnt even know there was a bigger contract, Isiah Kassidy (Zay) admitted. I thought that was the biggest contract. I thought that was how all contracts were made. After their standout performance at Fyter Fest, the duo was approached by the Young Bucks and Tony Khan backstage. We want to offer you a salary contract, they told us, and Zays world flipped upside down.
I had no idea what that was, Quen confessed, with Zay echoing his surprise. Chris Jericho chimed in, guessing that the duo was probably making $1,000 per match at the time. Quen confirmed, That was it, adding, I never made money in wrestling. To hear salary, Im just like, Okay, I guess thats cool.
Zays reaction to the offer was heartwarming: I was so grateful. I thanked the Bucks, I thanked Tony Khan. I called my mom. Quit your job. We made it. Meanwhile, Quen had to clarify what a salaried contract even meant. I called my mom and asked her, What does this mean? Next thing I know, I hear her crying. This must be a big deal.
Jericho pointed out how rare it was for indie wrestlers to receive such offers, saying, Thats great money from the indies, and you get flown in and you get a hotel. Zays response? Im rich. Im getting $1,000 from wrestling, thats cool.
Their gratitude was palpable, and their hard work has clearly paid off, culminating in a full-circle moment when they won the AEW World Tag Team Championships from none other than the Young Bucks.
Private Partys story is a testament to perseverance and taking every opportunity that comes your way.
Were you surprised by Private Partys rise in AEW? Do you think their journey could inspire the next wave of wrestling stars? Drop your thoughts and feedback in the comments below!
