WWE is preparing to challenge AEW’s Forbidden Door pay-per-view with its own NXT Heatwave event on August 24, 2025, marking another key moment in the ongoing WWE AEW competition Heatwave Clash. The NXT event will be held at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium in South Carolina, directly coinciding with AEW and NJPW’s Forbidden Door show at London’s O2 Arena, highlighting the intense rivalry between the two wrestling promotions.
AEW’s Rise and WWE’s Strategic Response with NXT Events
Since AEW’s debut in 2019 under Tony Khan, the company has steadily grown as WWE’s main competitor, though it remains a distant second in overall market dominance. AEW has occasionally surpassed WWE’s NXT program in ratings, prompting WWE and Triple H’s team to strategically schedule NXT’s premium live events (PLEs) to maintain viewership advantage. The upcoming NXT Heatwave event continues this effort, aiming to counter AEW’s growing presence where it matters most.
WWE has yet to officially announce the Heatwave 2025 event, but insider sources such as WrestleVotes have confirmed the date and venue. This scheduling directly conflicts with AEW’s Forbidden Door on the same night, reinforcing WWE’s tactic of head-to-head competition in the premium wrestling market.
Upcoming Clash: NXT Great American Bash and AEW’s All In Set for July 12
Before Heatwave, WWE and AEW will face off again on July 12, 2025, when NXT’s Great American Bash coincides with AEW’s All In: Texas. WWE has secured a strong lineup for the Great American Bash, featuring Yoshiki Inamura challenging Oba Femi for the championship. AEW counters with a headline Texas Death Match between John Moxley and Adam Page, creating a high-stakes weekend for wrestling fans on both sides.
The following day, WWE will host Evolution, an all-women’s PLE celebrating female talent from past and present. This busy schedule highlights WWE’s commitment to delivering diverse and competitive programming to retain its fanbase amid AEW’s rise.
Additional Developments in WWE and AEW Storylines
Several noteworthy updates have emerged within the pro wrestling world this year. A returning WWE legend, previously thought unlikely to wrestle in 2025, has been confirmed for the Evolution event, adding star power to the roster. Major WWE stars have also made headlines, including one who publicly criticized detractors over Stephanie McMahon-related claims, and another couple making their relationship public through WWE LFG.
AEW’s former star Saraya has recently explained her unexpected departure from the company despite being under contract, shedding light on backstage decisions. Meanwhile, TNA president Carlos Silva defended his choice to release Gail Kim, a Hall of Famer, addressing a controversial firing that impacted the wrestling community.
Personal dynamics continue to draw attention, with Ricky Saints addressing criticism about his friendship with AEW’s Cody Rhodes, making clear he stands by that relationship regardless of the heat it brings. Additionally, Charlotte Flair shared the impact of a personal conversation with John Cena, revealing insights that have influenced her career.
Upcoming Matches and Potential Outcomes to Watch
One of the highlights gearing up is the World Heavyweight Championship match at Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12, 2025, where Goldberg faces Gunther. Reports suggest Goldberg may not lose cleanly for personal reasons, adding intrigue to the bout and its repercussions for WWE’s storyline continuity.
The continued direct scheduling conflicts between WWE’s NXT events and AEW’s shows throughout mid-2025 emphasize the fierce competition between the two major wrestling promotions. Fans can expect intense battles for ratings and viewer loyalty as both companies deploy top talent and marquee events.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WWE 100% acting?
A. Unlike other types of entertainment, wrestlers often keep acting like their characters even outside the ring. This effort to make scripted events seem real is called kayfabe. If a wrestler stops acting like their character, it’s similar to an actor forgetting their role.
Q. Does WWE pay Netflix?
A. WOODS: Netflix has made a $5 billion agreement with WWE. This grants Netflix exclusive rights to the show for the next ten years.
In addition, Netflix has signed more live sports deals. They now have the rights to stream NFL games and the Women’s World Cup.
Q. Is WWE paying Netflix?
A. Woods: Netflix is part of a deal worth $5 billion, granting them exclusive rights to a WWE show for the next 10 years. Additionally, Netflix has secured other agreements for live sports content.
Q. Is Netflix paying WWE?
A. Welcome to Raw on Netflix! This show is included in a $5 billion agreement. Netflix is paying WWE for the exclusive rights to air Raw for ten years.
