Credit: TNA
Matt Hardy recently shared his perspective on the intriguing possibility that WWE might use its growing partnership and potential ownership of TNA Wrestling as a strategic move to counter AEW’s rise. This comes amid ongoing speculation and reports that WWE holds an option to purchase TNA outright, positioning the longtime wrestling brand as a critical piece in the evolving landscape of American pro wrestling.
WWE and TNA: A Growing Relationship
Since early 2025, WWE has maintained an official multi-year partnership with TNA Wrestling, enabling unprecedented crossover of talent between the NXT brand and TNA programs. This collaboration has seen NXT stars compete on TNA iMPACT!, while TNA wrestlers have appeared on NXT and select WWE events, creating broader exposure and development opportunities for athletes on both sides. The alliance has been described as mutually beneficial, with WWE enhancing its developmental pipeline and TNA gaining increased visibility and talent infusion.
Sources reveal that WWE’s relationship with TNA goes beyond simple talent exchanges. Reports indicate WWE has a right of first refusal and a specified time window to purchase TNA entirely, aiming to keep any potential buyer aligned with WWE’s interests. This dynamic mirrors previous WWE arrangements with international indies, positioning WWE to secure future control if desired.
Matt Hardy’s Take: A Strategic Move?
In light of this business backdrop, Matt Hardy expressed that WWE’s possible acquisition or tighter control of TNA could be a deliberate tactic to challenge AEW’s expansion. Hardy, a seasoned industry veteran familiar with multiple promotions, suggested that WWE might leverage TNA’s legacy and roster depth to directly compete in markets where AEW is gaining ground.
A backstage source close to WWE stated, “WWE sees value in TNA’s brand and talent pool, especially with AEW’s increasing ratings and fanbase. Having a company like TNA under the WWE umbrella would allow WWE to not merely compete but potentially counterprogram AEW on multiple fronts.” This insight aligns with earlier reports that TNA was considering new TV deals with the idea of going head to head against AEW Dynamite.
The Implications for Wrestling Fans and the Industry
The strategic use of TNA as a counterprogramming tool could reshape the wrestling wars in the U.S. market dramatically. AEW’s emergence as WWE’s chief competitor has forced WWE to innovate in programming and talent acquisition. By deepening ties with TNA or outright owning it WWE could control an additional wrestling brand with a distinct identity and audience.
This layered approach might allow WWE to:
Expand its market share by offering variety through separate but complementary wrestling experiences.
Capitalize on TNA’s historic fanbase and brand recognition, appealing to nostalgic and newer wrestling viewers alike.
Provide wrestlers more diverse platforms to elevate their craft and exposure within the WWE ecosystem.
Matt Hardy pointed out, “For wrestlers and fans, this could mean more quality matches and storylines, but also indicates that the wrestling world is becoming more corporate and complex behind the scenes.”
Behind the Scenes: Potential Challenges and Fan Reception
While WWE’s control over TNA offers strategic advantages, industry insiders caution that maintaining TNA’s unique brand and fan trust will be essential. Some voices express concern that TNA could be overshadowed by WWE’s bigger machine or lose its independent spirit if absorbed too fully.
A WWE insider shared, “There’s a fine line between synergy and over-saturation. WWE must balance integrating talent while preserving what makes TNA special, or risk alienating loyal fans.”
Fans have also had mixed reactions to the partnership so far, noting uneven booking and creative decisions in TNA’s shows where WWE-affiliated talent appeared. Whether WWE’s next moves will address these concerns remains to be seen.