The 42-year-old, who won the Cruiserweight Championship during his time in WWE, was set to face Jon Moxley on Wednesday night.
Brian Kendrick was kicked off his AEW debut on Wednesday after controversial comments from his past resurfaced online
Brian Kendrick was kicked off his AEW debut on Wednesday after controversial comments from his past resurfaced online
But AEW founder Tony Khan said on social media hours before the event that he had been made aware of Kendrick's previous controversial comments.
In a 2013 video, Kendrick claimed that the Holocaust did not actually happen and suggested that it was far fewer than the six million Jews who were murdered.
He added: "The Holocaust is over and the Red Cross said it was only 250,000 Jews who were killed and the numbers were blown up to justify the creation of Israel."
Kendrick has also claimed over the years that the Sandy Hook school shooting, the 9/11 terrorist attack, the assassination of Osama bin Laden and the moon landing were all hoaxes.
After his comments surfaced online again, Khan tweeted: "We have been made aware of the hateful and offensive comments Brian Kendrick has made in the past.
“There is no place in AEW for the views expressed by Brian. We think it is best that Brian is removed from tonight's card as we gather more information.
"We’ll announce a replacement bout ASAP."
Wheeler Yuta ultimately stepped in to replace Kendrick where he faced Moxley.
Kendrick then took to Twitter where he apologised to his fans - insisting he doesn't agree with the statements he made.
He said: "I apologise for all the hurt and embarrassment I have caused with my words.
"These are not my beliefs and never were beliefs of mine, and I crossed the line.
"I spread the most vile comments without thinking of the damage it would cause. I will live with this regret for the rest of my life.
"I am truly sorry for the pain I have caused."