WWE/TNA multi-year partnership: The advantages and some potential disadvantages

The big news today is that TNA has entered into a multi-year cross-promotional partnership with WWE. That’s huge for a company that, just two years ago, felt like it was on death’s door. Over the course of 2024 and heading into 2025, TNA has risen from the ashes once again, making significant moves to regain notice and perhaps even compete with AEW.

But what does this deal mean for both WWE and TNA? Let’s examine the advantages and some potential disadvantages of this partnership.

WWE

First, let’s look at what WWE is gaining from this deal:

Positive publicity from fans and media: By joining forces with TNA, WWE is showing that it’s no longer the old company that aimed to crush all competition. Instead, they are willing to work with and support smaller promotions. They’ve already collaborated with NOAH and GCW, and this deal with TNA further enhances their reputation as a company willing to foster the wrestling industry.

A new place to send NXT rookies for training: One of the best aspects of the old territory system was that wrestlers could learn and grow by working in different styles, making them more well-rounded performers. This deal allows NXT rookies to gain experience outside WWE’s traditional style, as TNA offers a different wrestling approach and mindset. This will help develop better all-around wrestlers.

Fresh wrestlers for NXT: Perhaps the biggest advantage for WWE is that they now have access to TNA’s full roster, which they can use on NXT. This deal makes NXT feel less predictable and more exciting since fans won’t know who might show up next.

TNA

Now, what does TNA gain from this deal?

A potential financial boost: While this is speculation on my part, it’s likely that WWE is paying TNA a significant sum as part of the partnership. This financial support is crucial for TNA, especially considering the big moves they’ve been making this year. Additionally, WWE might assist with TNA’s new Canadian TV deal, and perhaps even help them secure a better American TV deal.

Increased exposure for their product: Through this deal, TNA will gain exposure via NXT. This is particularly valuable, as NXT’s reach has expanded thanks to airing on the CW in the U.S. and on Netflix in international markets. This exposure will introduce more fans to TNA talent, potentially driving viewers to subscribe to TNA+ or follow TNA on TV.

Access to NXT talent: The partnership creates opportunities for fresh feuds and matches on both NXT and TNA’s brands. This benefits both companies, and who wouldn’t want to see more comedic backstage segments between Santino Marella and his daughter?

Talent loss to WWE: The main downside for TNA is that this deal gives WWE easy access to scout their talent. WWE can poach TNA wrestlers once their contracts are up, offering deals TNA may not be able to match. For many wrestlers, the choice between loyalty to TNA and a lucrative WWE contract is an easy one.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, this partnership is a game-changer. It shows that WWE, the industry’s biggest player, is willing to collaborate with other promotions while helping TNA grow and become competitive again. With AEW no longer as hot as it once was, TNA seems to sense an opportunity and is making bold moves—this deal being the biggest yet.

The future looks bright for TNA, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for them!