Pro wrestling’s industry veterans have been abuzz in 2025 as Eric Bischoff, the WWE Hall of Famer and WCW executive behind the legendary Monday Night Wars, declared TNA Wrestling “the sleeper of the wrestling industry” and claimed they are “one broadcast deal away from being a major player”[1][2]. Bischoff went further, warning AEW to watch its back, while WWE insiders reveal the Triple H-led company is already factoring TNA’s rising momentum into its long-term strategic planning. This article dives deep into Bischoff’s provocative comments, TNA’s current trajectory, the AEW landscape, and reactions from inside WWE.

Bischoff’s Bold Claim: TNA on the Cusp

On the latest episode of the 83 Weeks podcast, Bischoff spotlighted TNA’s recent creative and business resurgence:

“The show’s really getting good… that show is getting much better. It’s gaining momentum, bigger crowds. It’s the sleeper. I think I said it here a couple of months ago, TNA is the sleeper in the wrestling industry… If I was Tony Khan, I’d forget all about WWE and be looking closely at what’s coming up my back, because they’re coming. I’m really impressed… If they keep moving in the right direction, opportunities are going to come their way that’s going to catapult them to a much better position, because they’re doing the basics right. They’re doing the basics right, and the people are responding. So hats off.” [1]

Bischoff cited TNA’s record-setting Slammiversary attendance at UBS Arena—over 7,000 fans, their largest North American crowd ever—as proof of their growing appeal[2]. He emphasized that with the “right television partner,” TNA could leapfrog AEW to become the clear #2 promotion in the industry “by this time next year”[2]. According to Bischoff, “They are one deal away from being a major player. If they get a broadcast partner. If they get the right broadcast situation…they have the product. They know what they’re doing. Good team of people. They just need a bigger platform. If they get it, watch them take off”[2].

TNA’s Road to Relevance: What’s Changed?

TNA’s current momentum can be traced to several key developments:

• Improved Creative Direction: TNA has focused on “doing the basics right,” emphasizing engaging storylines, character development, and in-ring action that resonates with both hardcore and casual fans[1].
• Stronger Live Event Draws: Record-breaking attendances and growing house show numbers signal renewed fan interest.
• Strategic Partnerships: TNA’s ongoing talent-sharing agreement with WWE has revitalized its roster and increased cross-promotional buzz[1].
• Digital Expansion: The launch of TNA+ and increased streaming presence have broadened its reach ahead of a potential major TV deal.

According to a insider, “There’s real respect backstage for what [TNA President] Antonio Carlos Silva has built. There’s a sense that TNA is finally capitalizing on its deep talent pool and strong creative team, and if they land on a major network, they could seriously disrupt the U.S. wrestling landscape.”

AEW’s Position Under Scrutiny

Bischoff’s praise for TNA comes alongside sharp criticism of AEW. On the Ariel Helwani Show, he questioned whether AEW’s current model—heavy on in-ring action but light on character-driven storytelling—can sustain a larger audience[3]. He has been even more direct elsewhere, stating, “That promotion is circling the toilet bowl. And it’s because of the creative. It’s because of the lack of leadership. It’s because of the lack of structure, creative structure, and the lack of vision… It’s the place where your career goes to die. There’s no exceptions to the rule”[3].

Bischoff’s critiques echo a growing sentiment among wrestling analysts: AEW’s audience growth has plateaued, and its reliance on workrate over storytelling has limited its mainstream appeal[3]. “If you’re one of the small percentage of the audience that just loves wrestling moves for the sake of wrestling moves, because it looks kind of like the video game you play, you’re happy as hell. The problem is there’s not enough of them to build a business around,” Bischoff added[3].

Meanwhile, AEW continues to deliver big events—All In drew around 30,000 fans in London—but there’s uncertainty about whether the company can maintain its momentum without addressing creative and structural issues[2].

WWE’s Perspective: Watching, Waiting, and Planning

While WWE remains the undisputed industry leader, insiders report the company is “closely monitoring” TNA’s rise. Sources close to Triple H revealed, “The leadership team sees TNA as a potential wildcard. If TNA lands a major TV deal and starts pulling in bigger ratings, it could force everyone—WWE and AEW—to reassess their approach to talent, live events, and even streaming strategy.”

The WWE-TNA talent-sharing agreement, which has seen stars from both promotions appearing on each other’s shows, is viewed as a win-win. “It keeps the talent pool fresh and gives WWE a new avenue for scouting,” said the insider. “There’s a lot of talk about whether this could evolve into something bigger down the line.”

What Comes Next for TNA?

The path forward for TNA is clear, according to industry observers:

• Secure a Major TV Deal: Landing on a broadcaster with significant reach is essential to unlocking TNA’s potential[2].
• Build on Current Momentum: Continued focus on storytelling, character development, and live events will be key to maintaining and growing its fanbase[1].
• Leverage Partnerships: Deepening ties with WWE and exploring new international markets could further accelerate growth.
• Invest in Marketing: Increased promotional efforts will be needed to capitalize on any new TV platform.

Bischoff’s prediction is bold, but not without merit. “By this time next year. Depends on the TV deal. With the right television partner… In terms of television ratings and popularity, they could be number two in a minute,” he said[2].

Expert Analysis: The Wrestling Landscape in 2025

The U.S. wrestling scene is more dynamic than at any point since the Monday Night Wars. WWE’s global dominance is unchallenged, but the battle for #2 is heating up. AEW’s creative challenges and TNA’s resurgence have created a fluid situation that could reshape the industry.

Industry analyst Wade Keller

“If TNA lands a major cable or streaming deal, it could trigger a domino effect—forcing AEW to up its game, and giving WWE a credible domestic competitor for the first time in years. The next 12-18 months could be the most consequential period for non-WWE wrestling since WCW folded.”

Conclusion: A New Era on the Horizon?

Eric Bischoff’s declaration that TNA Wrestling is “one broadcast deal away” from major success—and possibly overtaking AEW—has sent shockwaves through the industry[1][2]. With improved creative, record crowds, and a hungry executive team, TNA is positioned to capitalize on any breakthrough in distribution.

WWE, meanwhile, is watching closely, ready to adapt its strategy in response to any seismic shift. An industry once defined by a two-horse race between WWE and WCW could soon see a three-way battle for supremacy.

As one WWE insider put it: “Don’t sleep on TNA. If they get the right platform, the entire wrestling world is going to feel it.”