In a recent interview, Matt Hardy revealed that TNA Wrestling’s primary goal is not to surpass AEW but rather to concentrate on its own development and internal success. While the wrestling world often endlessly compares promotions, Hardy explained that TNA is taking a different path focused on self-competition rather than direct rivalry with AEW.

According to Hardy, speaking with Global Force Entertainment and other outlets in early August 2025, TNA has experienced significant growth in the past year and is poised for continued expansion. However, he emphasized that the organization’s mission isn’t to become “better” than AEW or any other company but to build a strong, sustainable wrestling product that thrives on its own merits. “I think TNA can have a lot of growth in the next year… But I don’t think our goal is to be better than AEW or anywhere else. I think we’re just focused on ourselves,” Hardy said[4][5].

Hardy’s perspective contrasts with common wrestling narratives where promotions are frequently pitted against each other. Instead, he gives insight into a mindset of internal improvement and collaboration that many TNA insiders believe is key to the brand’s resurgence seen in 2025. As he discussed on his podcast “The Extreme Life” and in conversations on YouTube with TNA President Carlos Silva, this approach is about creating “the greater good” for everyone involved, including wrestlers and fans alike[1][2].

One area Matt Hardy acknowledges where TNA could close the gap on AEW is in international exposure and cross-promotion efforts. Hardy noted that partnerships, such as the recent WWE-TNA talent exchange deal solidified earlier this year, represent opportunities for TNA to raise its global profile. While WWE relations appear to be less active lately, these alliances set a precedent for TNA working collaboratively instead of in direct competition[3].

Sources close to the TNA locker room also reveal that the company is investing heavily in developing homegrown stars and revitalizing legacy talents to create a diverse and compelling roster. “There’s definitely an energy in the locker room that’s focused on growth and legacy rather than just beating another brand,” said a wrestling insider speaking with Fightful. This collective ambition to “bring the TNA World Title back home” to the company itself was emphasized as a central theme for the upcoming Slamversary event, which Hardy highlighted as a key moment for the promotion’s identity and momentum[1].

While wrestling fans and media often debate which promotion is currently “better,” Hardy’s comments underline a more productive narrative for TNA’s future. It’s about forging an authentic path and building a promotion that resonates independently. This mindset might not produce viral media battles but could lead to long-term success in the highly competitive wrestling landscape.

In conclusion, Matt Hardy’s candid remarks clarify that TNA’s vision for 2025 and beyond is about internal competition, growth, and collaboration rather than outshining AEW. As the new era unfolds, fans can expect TNA to focus on reinvention, talent development, and strategic partnerships to carve out its unique space in the wrestling world.

This strategic focus comes after several notable developments in pro wrestling this year, and as Matt Hardy puts it, “It’s about creating the greater good. That’s what makes TNA special right now”[1][4]. Wrestling observers will be closely watching how this philosophy plays out as the year progresses, especially heading into Slamversary and beyond.