The much-anticipated AAA TripleMania XXXIII event held on August 16, 2025, in Mexico City’s Arena CDMX drew an impressive crowd of approximately 19,000 fans, showcasing the growing synergy between WWE and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) under WWE’s recent ownership of the promotion[2][1]. This milestone event not only featured a star-studded match card blending top WWE and AAA talent, but also sparked backstage buzz involving WWE legends, a notable tribute controversy, and merchandise sales controversies.

WWE Legends Backstage: The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels Steal the Spotlight

Among the highlights off-camera, legendary WWE icons The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels were spotted backstage at TripleMania XXXIII, signaling WWE’s commitment to intertwining the history and future of both brands[4][2]. Sources indicate that The Undertaker is expected to maintain a more regular presence around AAA shows moving forward, suggesting deeper collaboration beyond this marquee event. A WWE insider shared, “The presence of such legends adds tremendous prestige and excitement. WWE is clearly investing in building AAA’s profile globally while rewarding fans with unforgettable moments both in and out of the ring.”[2]

Match Card and WWE Superstar Appearances

The card featured several high-profile WWE superstars alongside AAA’s homegrown talent, reflecting WWE’s strategy to integrate its own roster into AAA’s flagship event[3][5]. The marquee match was a Fatal 4-Way for the AAA Mega Championship, pitting champion El Hijo del Vikingo against Dragon Lee, El Grande Americano, and WWE Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio. This bout spotlighted WWE’s top star possibly capturing AAA’s premier title, with insiders indicating the crossover appeal could dramatically boost AAA’s visibility[3].

Other matches included a street fight for the AAA Tag Team Championship, six-person tag bouts featuring stars like Finn Bálor and Raquel Rodriguez, and the prestigious Reina de Reinas Championship triple threat match with Natalya in the mix[5]. The event was streamed live on WWE’s YouTube channels in both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a global audience[1][5].

Hulk Hogan Tribute Boycott Rumors Debunked

Online chatter had suggested that multiple wrestlers refused to participate in a ten-bell salute tribute for Hulk Hogan, igniting speculation of backstage dissent and potential boycotts[2]. However, reliable sources close to WWE and AAA have vehemently denied these claims as “total bullsh*t,” clarifying that appearance on stage for the ceremony was not mandatory. A backstage source commented, “Those rumors are completely unfounded — the talent showed nothing but respect. Any suggestions otherwise are misinformation.”[2][H/T Fightful Select]

Karrion Kross T-Shirt Sales: Fact vs. Fiction

Adding to the buzz, a viral online post by the wrestling news outlet WrestleSeek claimed that Karrion Kross’s merchandise sales have outpaced WWE legend John Cena’s entire lineup[2]. This statement was quickly labeled “an outright lie” by a WWE source, noting the account has a history of exaggeration and affiliate link-driven hype. While Kross’s merchandise has indeed performed well, the circulated figures were fabricated to inflate a narrative surrounding his rising popularity. The WWE source emphasized, “Kross is trending, but those numbers just don’t add up.”[2]

Implications for WWE and AAA Collaboration

TripleMania XXXIII embodies the new era of collaboration between WWE and AAA, establishing a platform where both brands can mutually benefit from cross-promotion and talent exchange. The integration of WWE superstars into traditional AAA storylines, including title opportunities and prominent matchups, hints at a more fluid wrestling landscape that respects both cultures and fanbases[1][3].

The presence of legendary WWE figures backstage, coupled with increased WWE promotional power behind AAA, signals expanded exposure and potential for the Mexican promotion to reach wider international audiences. As The Undertaker gears up for increased AAA involvement, fans can expect memorable moments and deeper storytelling spanning multiple continents[2][4].

Conclusion

AAA TripleMania XXXIII was more than just a wrestling event—it was a showcase of WWE’s expanding footprint in the global wrestling market and a celebration of legendary figures who have shaped the sport. Disproven rumors about wrestler boycotts and exaggerated merchandise claims highlight the importance of careful scrutiny in wrestling news. Meanwhile, the exciting cross-pollination of WWE and AAA talent offers fans a fresh spectacle and sets the stage for future blockbuster events.

Sources: WWE.com, Fightful Select, Luchablog, Wrestling Headlines, Ringside News, Wrestling Observer