Wrestling Arena News

TNA Wrestling Considers Wednesday Move to Challenge AEW Dynamite Amid Media Rights Talks

TNA Wrestling Considers Wednesday Move to Challenge AEW Dynamite Amid Media Rights Talks

TNA Wrestling is reportedly exploring a strategic shift in its weekly broadcast schedule by potentially moving its flagship show, Impact!, to Wednesday nights to directly compete with AEW Dynamite. This development comes amid intensifying negotiations over TNA’s next U.S. media rights deal, with The CW emerging as a prominent contender to acquire the promotion’s broadcast rights.

According to multiple independent sources reported by Sports Illustrated’s The Takedown, discussions have taken place about TNA joining a WWE-associated network, with The CW seen as a viable option. This network shift could support a fresh broadcast timetable that pits TNA head-to-head against AEW, signaling the promotion’s bold intent to capture market share in the competitive wrestling landscape.

Currently, TNA Impact! airs on AXS TV on Thursdays, with a recent programming update temporarily moving the show to a 9 pm ET slot on July 10, 2025, while maintaining an 8 pm ET premiere on streaming platforms such as TNA+ and YouTube[1]. Industry insider Dave Meltzer has revealed on Wrestling Observer Radio that TNA is aiming for live broadcasts and a fixed venue for weekly shows, with Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida—a former WWE NXT hub—being one candidate to host live tapings[2]. However, this location presents challenges given that WWE NXT broadcasts on Tuesdays.

The possibility of live weekly broadcasts aligns with TNA’s broader strategy to escalate its profile as a competitive brand. Fans can also look forward to major upcoming events in 2025, including the “Slammiversary” pay-per-view taking place on July 20 at UBS Arena in New York City and the “Rebellion” PPV scheduled for April 27 at the Galen Center in Los Angeles[4]. These marquee events accentuate TNA’s commitment to delivering compelling wrestling content coast-to-coast.

From a storyline perspective, TNA’s current programming is intensifying towards Slammiversary, featuring high-stakes championship matches and cross-promotion talent such as NXT stars. For example, at Slammiversary, NXT’s Trick Williams will defend the TNA World Championship against Joe Hendry and Mike Santana, continuing a heated rivalry[5]. The narrative mix of established TNA talent and NXT competitors highlights the synergy hinted at by the talks of partnership with WWE-affiliated networks.

A WWE insider shared with Fightful: “TNA’s possible move to Wednesday nights is a calculated step to reclaim wrestling fans and increase viewership directly against AEW. The discussions with The CW, especially under the WWE umbrella, could provide the stability and exposure TNA needs to elevate its product.”

Historically, TNA’s move from taped shows to live broadcasts on a competitive night could revolutionize its operations and fan engagement. Competing directly with AEW Dynamite, which airs live on Wednesdays on TBS, would place TNA in a more aggressive position within the wrestling market, fostering a more dynamic rivalry.

As the situation develops, the wrestling community eagerly awaits official confirmation on whether TNA will relocate its broadcast day and finalize its media partner. This potential transition marks a critical juncture for TNA Wrestling’s future and its place in the evolving wrestling broadcast ecosystem.

In summary, TNA Wrestling’s likely shift to Wednesday broadcasting, combined with emerging deals with WWE-associated networks like The CW, aims to enhance the promotion’s competitiveness against AEW Dynamite. Industry insiders and fans alike are watching closely as TNA prepares to transform its weekly show experience, ramp up live content, and bolster its presence across the U.S. wrestling landscape.

[Sources: Sports Illustrated (The Takedown), Ringside News, Wrestling Observer Radio, TNA Wrestling Official Releases, Fightful]