The professional wrestling terrain has undergone a significant shift since the inception of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019. According to veteran wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, AEW’s emergence has had a profound impact on its Stamford-based counterpart, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Meltzer recently shared his insights on Wrestling Observer Radio, revealing how AEW’s presence has pushed WWE to boost its game.
Meltzer credited AEW with bringing about the biggest wrestling resurgence since the Attitude Era, a period marked by intense competition and innovative storytelling in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The veteran journalist believes that WWE, feeling the heat from AEW’s aggressive approach, has been forced to up its game and adapt to the changing wrestling terrain.
AEW’s impact on WWE is undeniable. With AEW’s focus on high-flying action, exciting match-ups, and a more sports-oriented approach, WWE has been compelled to re-examine its own creative direction. WWE’s recent efforts to revamp its programming, introducing fresh storylines and talent, are a testament to AEW’s influence.
However, Meltzer also acknowledged that AEW has yet to turn a profit since its inception. The veteran journalist analyzed the possible reasons behind this, including the significant financial investments required to establish a new promotion. Despite this, AEW remains a major player in the wrestling industry, with a growing fan base and a reputation for delivering high-quality matches.
As AEW prepares to celebrate its fifth anniversary, the promotion’s future looks promising. With a strong foundation in place, Tony Khan’s brainchild is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of professional wrestling. The question remains, however, whether AEW can eventually turn a profit and establish long-term sustainability.
Ultimately, the rivalry between AEW and WWE has been beneficial for fans, driving innovation and creativity in professional wrestling. As the two promotions continue to compete, the real winners are the wrestling enthusiasts who get to enjoy the resulting high-quality entertainment.
