In 2025, WWE intensified its efforts to compete directly with AEW, strategically targeting the Jacksonville-based wrestling promotion by scheduling major events on the same dates to divide viewership. AEW President Tony Khan revealed how his company has adapted to these challenges, emphasizing that AEW continues to grow and innovate despite WWE’s aggressive counterprogramming tactics.
Tony Khan Highlights AEW’s Strong Performance Amid Rivalry
During an interview with Going Ringside with Scott Johnson, Tony Khan acknowledged the significant challenges posed by WWE’s counterprogramming moves, such as launching the new WWE Wrestlepalooza event on the same day AEW planned its All Out pay-per-view. Khan adapted quickly, shifting All Out to an earlier time slot so fans could watch both events, preventing direct conflict and retaining audience share.
Khan described 2025 as “a great year” for AEW, pointing out that both Dynamite and Collision have seen improved ratings despite WWE’s competitive scheduling. He emphasized that the competition in professional wrestling is intense, driving AEW to work harder and be more innovative throughout the year. As Khan explained,
“Well, we’ve been having a great year. We’ve been able to stick and move and make it work really well for us. There’s always going to be tough competition, and this sport, it’s very tough competition, the kind of competition that makes you work really hard 52 weeks a year,” Tony Khan, AEW President and CEO.
Despite WWE’s attempts to dominate the market by running NXT specials simultaneously with AEW’s Title Tuesday shows, AEW has steadily increased its viewership. The company’s ability to maintain a loyal fan base and grow ratings dispels industry analyst predictions that AEW would lose ground amid WWE’s rivalry. This resilience suggests AEW’s strategic decisions and adaptability have strengthened its position in the wrestling industry.
Notable Developments in the Wrestling World
Outside of AEW and WWE’s ongoing competition, other major events have unfolded in the world of professional wrestling. A former WWE superstar unexpectedly gave up a TNA Championship, which was then claimed by an NXT wrestler, marking an important shift in the title scene.
Additionally, a WWE star was reportedly attacked off-camera during a SmackDown event, intensifying concerns about backstage safety. Meanwhile, Vince McMahon pressured a newly formed faction to deliver a powerful debut, threatening their future appearances if they failed to impress during their first outing.
Controversy has also surrounded Stephanie McMahon’s proposed induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, with a former wrestler publicly claiming she does not deserve the honor. In contrast, Ricky Saints, after winning the NXT Championship, recently addressed fans about reaching this milestone, showing the ongoing personal journeys within the sport.
Further drama has come from inside WWE as a five-time champion alleged that Triple H sought to undermine his career. Meanwhile, speculation builds over Drew McIntyre potentially facing John Cena in Cena’s final WWE match, with the venue, event, and date now confirmed.
The wrestling landscape is also preparing for a major WWE invasion show pitting NXT against TNA, signifying another chapter in the promotions’ ongoing confrontations and alliances.
AEW’s Position in the Wrestling Industry Amidst Intense Rivalry
Tony Khan’s reflections on AEW’s progress underscore the promotion’s ability to not only survive but thrive despite WWE’s formidable presence. By adjusting event timings and maintaining quality programming, AEW has cultivated a dedicated fanbase that continues to grow in number and enthusiasm.
As WWE and AEW compete for dominance, the heightened rivalry drives both companies to innovate and engage viewers more effectively, promising a dynamic future for the wrestling industry. AEW’s resilience in the face of WWE’s strategic onslaught shows the importance of adaptability and audience loyalty in maintaining a strong foothold.
