WWE reportedly helping TNA to become number two in business over AEW

Blesson has been a part of Khel Now since 2023, he covers Combat Sports & Gaming.

Published at :August 14, 2025 at 8:44 PM

Modified at :August 16, 2025 at 11:30 PM

(Courtesy : WWE)

WWE trying to end AEW

WWE appears to be escalating its war with All Elite Wrestling and according to a new report, the aim is not just to compete but to push AEW out of the picture entirely.

Throughout 2025, WWE has counter-programmed several of AEW’s major pay-per-views with NXT premium live events. But now, that strategy is reportedly going into overdrive.

Multiple outlets have noted that WWE is planning a Brock Lesnar vs John Cena headliner for September 20, the exact same day as AEW All Out in Toronto. Additionally, there’s discussion of shifting Cena’s retirement match to December 27, directly clashing with AEW Worlds End.

WWE’s counter-programming goes beyond competition

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer explained that WWE’s aggressive scheduling is part of a much larger plan, one that could alter the wrestling industry’s landscape.

“That is certainly the story that’s going around — that they wanted to move from December 13th to December 27th,” Meltzer said. “Given all the actions and everything that has been done, of course they want to. It isn’t the only thing, there is so much going on that will probably be breaking in the next couple of months when it comes to different things. They really want TNA to become the other promotion because they can control TNA.”

WWE trying to sabotage AEW’s future TV deals

Meltzer linked WWE’s strategy to AEW’s lucrative U.S. media rights agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery, worth $555 million through the end of 2027, with an option for an even bigger fourth year.

“This is a major full-court press,” Meltzer explained. “They just want this guy [Tony Khan] out of the box and they know if the numbers stay good that he’s gonna get a renewal at a much bigger number, just like they did. He’s already very profitable, the number will make him incredibly profitable, and they’ll never get away from him or anything like that. So they feel that they need to make sure this is the last contract.”

If WWE succeeds, AEW could find itself in a weaker position when its current deal ends, potentially leaving TNA as the clear number two under WWE’s influence.

Why is WWE targeting AEW so aggressively?

Reports suggest WWE wants to weaken AEW before their next media rights renewal, preventing the company from becoming even more profitable and entrenched.

What role does TNA play in WWE’s strategy?

WWE reportedly wants TNA to rise as the number two promotion because they can exert more control over it compared to AEW.

Could this strategy actually work?

If successful, WWE’s counter-programming could hurt AEW’s long-term momentum, but AEW’s loyal fanbase and TV deal stability make it far from a guaranteed outcome.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.

Blesson

Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.