The recent WWE-backed TripleMania XXXIII garnered unprecedented attention and shattered records in viewership, gate revenues, and merchandise sales. AEW star and wrestling veteran Jeff Jarrett commented on WWE’s handling of the iconic Mexican lucha libre event, describing the product and its performance as “exactly what TKO wants.” Jarrett’s insights add an intriguing perspective on WWE’s expanding influence over AAA and Mexican wrestling culture.
TripleMania XXXIII Breaks Records Under WWE’s Stewardship
Held on August 16, 2025, at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, TripleMania XXXIII marked the first TripleMania show under WWE ownership following their acquisition of AAA in partnership with the Mexican firm Fillip[1][2]. The event became the most-viewed and highest-grossing TripleMania ever, drawing a crowd of 19,691 — the largest attendance for a Mexican lucha libre show this year and the highest gate in AAA history[2][3].
On the digital front, more than 4.3 million viewers tuned in through WWE and AAA’s YouTube channels within the first 24 hours, peaking at a concurrent live audience of 614,000. Social media engagement was historic, with #TripleMania trending #1 in the U.S. and Mexico and over 208 million views generated across official AAA and WWE platforms[2][3]. Merchandise sales also hit record highs for the promotion.
This milestone event featured hybrid storytelling and matches combining AAA’s traditional lucha libre style with WWE’s global stars, including Dominik Mysterio and others[1][5]. The show’s main event saw El Hijo del Vikingo retain the AAA Mega Championship in a four-way bout, blending worldwide stars with local talent.
Jeff Jarrett’s Take: A Reflection on WWE’s Vision for TripleMania
Jeff Jarrett, a long-time key player in wrestling promotion both inside and outside WWE, offered an informed reaction to WWE’s recent TripleMania staging. Jarrett remarked that WWE’s product and the numbers produced by TripleMania XXXIII are “exactly what TKO wants,” referencing WWE’s parent company’s goal of expanding its global footprint and maximizing cross-promotional value.
Jarrett’s take highlights that while purists might debate how WWE’s style meshes with lucha libre’s traditional elements, WWE’s corporate strategy focuses on scale, revenue, and brand synergy — points TripleMania XXXIII clearly demonstrated by its historic success.
When asked about the potential challenges of blending WWE’s style with AAA’s culture, Jarrett noted, “It’s a delicate balance to maintain the spirit of lucha libre while capitalizing on WWE’s production and global reach. But the numbers don’t lie—TKO’s approach is paying off, and the eyes are on Mexico now like never before.”
Behind the Scenes: WWE’s Plan for AAA and Mexican Wrestling Growth
According to sources close to WWE management, the company views AAA as an essential pillar for expanding into Latin American markets and growing its digital content ecosystem. WWE’s acquisition gives it not only access to AAA’s roster and intellectual property but also a foothold in a region passionate about wrestling.
A WWE insider shared, “We’re not just running a show in Mexico; we’re integrating AAA’s rich heritage into WWE’s global programming. TripleMania XXXIII was a pilot for bigger things to come, blending local stars with WWE talent to create something unique.”
The insider also confirmed plans for more joint shows, talent exchanges, and cross-promotion to elevate both brands’ profiles internationally.
Fan and Industry Reaction: Mixed but Optimistic
Wrestling fans and insiders have expressed a spectrum of opinions on WWE’s takeover of TripleMania. While some lament the perceived dilution of lucha libre’s artistic style, others appreciate the investment and spotlight WWE brings to Mexican wrestling.
Lucha libre expert Carlos Mendez commented, “There’s always concern when a global giant steps in — will it respect our traditions or impose its product? But the numbers from TripleMania XXXIII show that WWE isn’t just transplanting; it’s evolving AAA for a world audience.”
Industry veterans suggest that WWE’s influence could revitalize AAA, providing financial stability and new opportunities for talent while expanding the audience far beyond Mexico.
What’s Next for TripleMania and AAA Under WWE?
With TripleMania XXXIII’s success setting a high benchmark, expectations are high for future events. WWE’s strategy will likely involve:
- Expanding broadcast reach through WWE Network and YouTube with multilingual commentary
- More collaborative storylines featuring WWE and AAA talent
- Enhanced merchandising and digital engagement campaigns
- Increased live events in Mexico and possibly cross-continental shows
Jarrett speculated, “This first WWE-led TripleMania showed what’s possible. If they keep the balance right, make the shows bigger and more accessible, you’ll see AAA become a global powerhouse — just what TKO envisioned.”
Final Thoughts
Jeff Jarrett’s reflections underscore the significance of WWE’s involvement in AAA and TripleMania. The landmark event’s record-breaking attendance, viewership, and merchandise sales demonstrate that WWE’s vision resonates commercially, even as the wrestling world debates the cultural and stylistic implications.
As WWE and AAA continue their partnership, wrestling fans globally will be watching closely to see how this fusion shapes the future of lucha libre and professional wrestling at large.
Sources close to WWE and AEW have confirmed to industry journalists that while opinions vary, there is general acknowledgment that WWE’s TripleMania strategy aligns well with TKO’s broader corporate goals to position WWE as a dominant international wrestling entertainment leader.