Triplemania XXXIII, AAA’s marquee event often dubbed the “WrestleMania of Lucha Libre,” took place on August 16, 2025, at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, marking a pivotal moment for both AAA and WWE. The event was simulcast live on AAA’s official YouTube channel and, for the first time ever, on WWE’s YouTube channel under the newly formed TKO Group, reflecting WWE’s recent acquisition of AAA[5][1]. This strategy paid off handsomely as Triplemania XXXIII shattered previous records, amassing an unprecedented 4.3 million views, making it the most-viewed event in AAA history and signaling a new chapter for Mexican wrestling on the global stage[1].

The Transition to a Global Stage: WWE’s Role in AAA’s Expansion

Since WWE’s acquisition of AAA, fans have been keenly watching how traditional Mexican lucha libre culture integrates with WWE’s production values and promotional tactics. According to a WWE insider interviewed after the show, “WWE’s involvement has provided AAA the platform to reach millions more fans worldwide without compromising the soul and spirit that make lucha libre unique.” Commentary figures like Corey Graves, Konnan, and JBL provided bilingual coverage, expertly balancing familiarity for WWE’s fanbase while honoring AAA’s rich heritage[5].

The simulcast’s success has been touted by Fightful and WWE.com as a groundbreaking move to merge two wrestling cultures, creating fresh storytelling opportunities and crossover appeal[5]. The inclusion of WWE stars in key spots, especially AJ Styles, provided a recognizable bridge for viewers more familiar with WWE product[1].

Hits: A Showcase of Action and Storytelling

• El Hijo del Vikingo’s Triumph with AJ Styles’ Intrigue
  The main event featured El Hijo del Vikingo defending his AAA Mega Championship in a high-stakes fatal four-way match against Dominik Mysterio, Dragon Lee, and another top contender. In a shocking twist, AJ Styles intervened, costing Dominik Mysterio the title opportunity and helping El Hijo del Vikingo retain his championship[1][5]. This blending of WWE star presence with homegrown talent energized the crowd and online viewers, building additional intrigue for future cross-promotion angles.

• Cultural Authenticity and Passionate Performances
  Opening the show, legends like Rey Mysterio and Vikingo led the cold open to remind all viewers why Triplemania is the heartbeat of lucha libre, setting the tone for an emotionally charged event[3]. Skillful high-flying maneuvers and passionate storytelling remained true to AAA’s roots, earning praise from longtime lucha fans and new audiences alike.

• Record-Breaking Online Engagement
  Beyond live attendance, the event’s staggering 4.3 million views on YouTube, with seamless Spanish and English-language options, underscore the success of WWE’s strategy to expand Triplemania’s reach internationally[1]. This milestone marks a significant step for AAA, positioning Triplemania as an international spectacle in 2025’s crowded wrestling calendar.

Misses: Booking Decisions and Production Critiques

• AJ Styles’ Interference Divides Fan Opinions
  While many appreciated the star power AJ Styles brought, some hardcore AAA fans felt his interference in the main event detracted from the meritocratic nature of the championship match. Fightful reports and several wrestling podcasts noted this as a divisive booking choice that risks overshadowing burgeoning homegrown talent with WWE imported narratives[5]. Some fans expressed concern that WWE influence might begin to erode the unpredictable, traditional storytelling styles loyal AAA audiences cherish.

• Inconsistent Match Quality and Pacing Issues
  Despite several standout matches, critics pointed to pacing issues during some undercard bouts. Certain matches were perceived as rushed or lacking the intensity seen in previous years. As covered in WWE’s “Top 10 Triplemania Moments” recap, while highlights abounded, not all segments maintained the high energy AAA is renowned for[4].

• Production Values vs. Lucha Libre Tradition
  WWE’s influence was evident in the polished production and camera work, aiming for a global audience accustomed to WWE-style presentation. Some analysts and long-time fans voiced concerns that this modernization sometimes clashed with lucha libre’s raw, intimate atmosphere. According to sources close to AAA, management aims to strike a balance but admits it is a “work in progress” as they learn what international fans respond to most[5].

Looking Ahead: What Triplemania XXXIII Means for AAA and WWE

Triplemania XXXIII’s historic viewership milestone establishes AAA as a bellwether for global wrestling expansion under WWE’s TKO banner. Industry insiders suggest this model—integrating traditional regional promotions with global broadcasting powerhouses—is the future of wrestling and entertainment[5].

Sources close to Cody Rhodes, who has been involved in helping launch and promote AAA content through WWE platforms, revealed in a recent interview that “AAA’s growth is a priority for WWE, and events like Triplemania are key to introducing raw lucha talent to the world stage.” Rhodes emphasized that while WWE stars will continue to appear, the foundational aim remains “to elevate AAA’s storylines and wrestlers, not overshadow them.”

As fans and analysts digest Triplemania’s successes and shortcomings, the message is clear: AAA’s partnership with WWE has opened a new era, but preserving culture while innovating in storytelling will be critical for long-term success.

For fans eager to catch the highlights and relive the night, WWE’s official YouTube channel features curated clips including the explosive AJ Styles-Dominik Mysterio moment and Rey Mysterio’s emotional cold open[1][3][4].

With the buzz still fresh and Triplemania XXXIII setting new benchmarks, all eyes will be on upcoming AAA events and how WWE’s expansive reach continues to reshape wrestling’s global landscape.