WWE appears to be actively trying to undermine AEW as a competitor. For instance, WWE scheduled major events like the Saturday night main event and NXT Battleground to coincide with AEW’s Double or Nothing event. They also countered AEW’s announcement of a supercard with CMLL by planning a similar event with AAA. Key WWE figures like Triple H and Nick Khan have openly challenged AEW, making moves that suggest WWE views AEW as a real threat and is determined to diminish their presence.
Despite WWE’s claims that these actions are mere coincidence, the pattern of counter-programming and public jabs indicates a clear intent to weaken AEW’s influence. WWE’s attempts to lure away talent and downplay AEW’s role make it obvious that they would prefer a wrestling world without AEW as a competitor.
From another perspective, AEW is crucial for the overall wrestling industry. WWE’s acquisitions, collaborations with TNA, and ventures into independent wrestling hint at efforts to monopolize the market, but eliminating all competition wouldn’t benefit anyone. AEW’s growth has pushed WWE to enhance its product, leading to new stars, improved shows, and more excitement for fans. Without AEW, WWE might have continued declining in quality, as seen after WCW’s demise. AEW provides wrestlers with opportunities and gives fans variety, contributing positively to the wrestling ecosystem. Notable wrestlers like Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and Jade Cargill might not have gained prominence without AEW.
WWE should consider letting AEW operate independently rather than continuously challenging them. AEW is unlikely to surpass WWE’s global dominance, and Tony Khan, AEW’s owner, acknowledges that. Healthy competition encourages diverse wrestling styles and career options, ultimately benefiting the sport. WWE’s aggressive tactics could alienate fans, pushing them towards AEW, especially given WWE’s current issues with sponsorships, reduced ring times, and overall product perception. At AEW’s Double or Nothing 2025 event, Khan confidently addressed WWE’s counter-programming, showing no fear of the rivalry.
Fan Take: This ongoing rivalry is significant for WWE fans because it keeps the wrestling industry vibrant and competitive, ensuring higher-quality entertainment. If WWE keeps aggressively targeting AEW, it could backfire, driving even more fans to support AEW and shifting the wrestling landscape in unexpected ways.
