In a bold strategic move, WWE is scheduled to host a yet-to-be-announced main roster Premium Live Event (PLE) on Saturday, September 20, 2025, which will directly compete with AEW’s All Out 2025 pay-per-view, also taking place that night in Toronto, Ontario. Multiple reliable sources, including POST Wrestling, Fightful, and Ringside News, have confirmed that WWE’s event will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, marking the first time WWE’s main roster PLE will air simultaneously with an AEW pay-per-view[1][2][3].

This decision furthers WWE’s recent trend of counter-programming AEW’s major events, amplifying the wrestling rivalry between the two promotions. Earlier in 2025, WWE’s NXT brand held several premium live events on the same nights as AEW pay-per-views, but this is the first time WWE’s flagship roster will clash head-to-head with AEW on such a large scale[1][3].

Why Indianapolis? The Strategic Venue Choice

The Indianapolis date aligns with WWE’s expanding partnership with the Indiana Sports Corp, a multi-year agreement that began in 2024 and has already seen the state host high-profile WWE events, such as the Royal Rumble. The deal also includes plans to bring future WrestleMania and SummerSlam events to Indianapolis. The city’s growing role within WWE’s live event strategy makes it a logical choice to host this major September show[1].

WWE’s probable venue for the event is the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, which fits WWE’s capacity needs in the area and has successfully hosted WWE shows before. Although the official venue and event title have not yet been announced, speculation persists that WWE might revive a historic WCW pay-per-view name, as trademark filings suggest[2][3].

What This Means for the Wrestling Community

September 20 now poses a choice for wrestling fans: which marquee show to watch live on a highly competitive Saturday night? AEW’s All Out, a staple annual event known for landmark matches and storyline climaxes, will once again be staged at the prestigious Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, while WWE aims to steal the spotlight with this surprise main roster premium live event.

This scheduling battle is the latest development in an ongoing, aggressive rivalry between WWE and AEW. According to insiders, WWE’s move is a deliberate effort to counter-program AEW, reflecting the companies’ desire to assert dominance over the wrestling market share[1][5]. A WWE insider shared: “The timing is no accident. WWE wants to remind fans and advertisers that it remains the industry’s top player and is willing to take risks to prove it.”

Tony Khan, AEW’s President, has publicly stated in interviews and podcasts that he remains untroubled by WWE’s attempts to run competing shows, emphasizing confidence in AEW’s loyal fanbase and distinctive product[3].

What to Expect From the Unnamed WWE Show

Although WWE has not announced the card or main event for this PLE, sources hint it will be a main roster event, meaning it will likely feature high-profile WWE superstars from Raw and SmackDown, rather than NXT talent. This escalation from NXT’s limited counter-programming role to the main roster stage signifies WWE’s intensified competitive approach.

Given that WWE only recently completed its two-night SummerSlam extravaganza, the addition of another key event so soon reflects WWE’s packed event calendar and strategic push to solidify viewer attention in a crowded wrestling market[3].

Potential Impact on Pay-Per-View Buy Rates and Fan Engagement

Historically, wrestling companies running shows head-to-head can split viewership and ticket sales, reducing the impact of both events. However, WWE appears undeterred, leaning on its long-standing brand strength and resources to challenge AEW directly. Some analysts predict this battle could cause a shift in fan preferences or ignite more fervent brand loyalty on both sides, possibly leading to increased media coverage and fan discussion.

Sources close to WWE express confidence: “This is about more than just one night; it’s a statement that WWE isn’t backing down from competition and wants to elevate its storytelling and live experience to keep fans fully engaged year-round.”

What’s Next in the WWE vs AEW Rivalry?

Fans and industry observers expect the rivalry to intensify as September approaches, with both companies unveiling match cards and promotional campaigns to capture fan interest. WWE’s surprise event announcement could lead AEW to enhance its All Out card with additional marquee matchups or surprise appearances, ramping up anticipation for one of wrestling’s biggest nights of 2025.

WWE’s strategy signifies a shift from earlier, more cautious competition to direct head-to-head clashes with AEW, signaling a high-stakes battle for wrestling supremacy in North America[1][2][5].

This upcoming showdown in Indianapolis vs. Toronto is shaping up to be one of the most consequential nights in recent professional wrestling history. Fans should expect announcements concerning event details and match cards from both WWE and AEW soon, as the September 20 date rapidly approaches.

This article is based on reports from POST Wrestling, Fightful, Ringside News, and verified insider sources. Stay tuned for further updates as this unprecedented wrestling clash unfolds.