Opinions

Wish list in 2025 for AEW, WWE and TNA Wrestling + Six predictions for the new year

Psykohurricane

We’re already at the end of 2024, and a lot has changed in the world of pro wrestling over the past 12 months. WWE is thriving without Vince McMahon, AEW has grown stagnant to the point of needing smaller venues in 2025, though they’ve secured a new TV deal that may help regain momentum, and TNA has had a banner year, making all the right moves to get people talking about them again.

For my final column of 2024, I want to look ahead to 2025 and share my wish list for all three companies. I’ll also throw in some predictions for fun!

WWE

Let’s face it, WWE has become a juggernaut. No one is going to destroy them or even come close to competing with them anymore. They are the major league of pro wrestling, and that isn’t going to change. So, what can I wish for them that they don’t already have?

Success with the Netflix Deal: I wish them good luck with the new Netflix partnership, particularly on the international side. This move might alienate older fans who aren’t big on streaming, especially Netflix. I hope WWE doesn’t lose too many fans because of this transition.

Expansion of NXT: I hope NXT grows enough to hit the road weekly or at least every few weeks, leaving the Performance Center behind. Hosting shows in smaller arenas nationwide would make the brand feel bigger and more significant.

PLEs in New Countries: I hope WWE continues to expand globally by hosting premium live events (PLEs) in countries they’ve never been to before—especially Japan. While it might inconvenience U.S. fans, landing a Japanese PLE would be a monumental achievement, likely featuring some of the best crowds in WWE history.

AEW

Saying AEW lost momentum in 2024 is an understatement. WWE’s creative overhaul under Triple H and Shawn Michaels didn’t help, nor did AEW’s ongoing backstage drama. However, ending the year with a new TV deal from WBD gives them a chance to course-correct.

Return to Roots: Stop trying to compete directly with WWE or be their complete opposite. WWE’s shift to a sports-based presentation threw AEW off their game. To regain momentum, AEW needs to regroup and return to their core values. That’s the key to success.

Better PR Management: Tony Khan needs to step away from Twitter spats. Every time he defends himself or the company online, it damages AEW’s image. Hiring a dedicated PR professional to handle criticism would allow Tony to focus on running the company.

Secure TV Stability: I hope their TV deal is rock-solid. WBD’s rumored restructuring could jeopardize AEW’s position if the TV division gets sold. An ironclad contract ensuring AEW remains on-air regardless of ownership changes is crucial for long-term stability.

AEW’s success in 2025 hinges on backstage changes, starting with Tony Khan and his leadership team.

TNA

Who would’ve thought that by the end of 2024, we’d be talking about TNA as a potential competitor to AEW? Anthem deserves credit for their strategic moves, including a summer partnership with NXT, booking larger PPV venues, and taking over WWE’s Canadian TV deal. This year marked TNA’s slow but promising rebirth.

A Better U.S. TV Deal: TNA needs more exposure in the U.S. Getting off AXS TV—or securing a secondary deal like their Canadian arrangement—would help immensely. Networks like FOX or ESPN could be good options, even if it’s FS1. Anything is better than their current setup.

Financial Growth: I hope TNA becomes financially competitive with AEW so they can retain talent. Pay cuts drove away key wrestlers in 2024, and addressing this will be critical to their success.

Steady Growth: I hope TNA continues to grow gradually by booking larger arenas and creating buzz. They already have a product on par with WWE and AEW—and arguably better than AEW right now. Increased visibility and coverage by figures like Meltzer could solidify their place in the industry.

Predictions for 2025

* WWE will host a PLE in Japan by year’s end.
* TNA will surpass AEW as the #2 promotion by December 2025.
* AEW will slowly regain lost momentum.
* WBD will sell its TV division, and AEW will move exclusively to MAX.
* NXT will become a touring brand after WrestleMania.
* WWE will announce WrestleMania in London for 2026.

This wraps up my 2024 wish list. Writing these columns has been a dream come true, and I’m so grateful for all of you who have supported me. Happy holidays, and I’ll see you in 2025 with more wrestling insights!