In a bold and aggressive move this year, WWE is reportedly aiming not just to compete with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) but to actively put the promotion out of business before AEW’s current TV deal with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) expires in late 2027. This escalated rivalry has seen WWE frequently scheduling premium events that directly clash with AEW’s marquee shows, including plans for John Cena’s highly anticipated final match to coincide with AEW’s Worlds End pay-per-view on December 27, 2025, in Chicago[2][3][4].

WWE’s Counter-Programming Strategy: More Than Just Competition?

Throughout 2025, WWE has repeatedly countered AEW pay-per-views by booking its own major NXT Premium Live Events (PLEs) on the exact same nights or weekends. Notably, an as-yet-unannounced WWE PLE headlined by Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena is scheduled for September 20, the same day AEW will hold its All Out event in Toronto[1][3][4].

Highly respected journalist Dave Meltzer discussed this pattern on Wrestling Observer Radio, interpreting WWE’s moves as an attempt to inflict financial damage on AEW. Although pay-per-view economics aren’t as punishing as they used to be due to streaming and changing viewer habits, the fact WWE is willing to go head-to-head with AEW’s biggest events suggests a long-term strategic plan[1]. Meltzer indicated WWE is concerned about AEW’s TV deal. AEW’s current $555 million agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery runs through the end of 2027 with an option for an additional year potentially worth even more. WWE fears a renewed AEW deal at a higher price would make AEW “incredibly profitable,” threatening WWE’s dominance in wrestling[3][4].

One backstage source told Fightful that WWE’s leadership views AEW as the only real threat to their business model and is willing to “go all-in” on crushing Tony Khan’s promotion before AEW can capitalize fully on its growing TV success and fanbase.

John Cena’s Final Match: A Key Battleground

Originally, John Cena’s farewell bout was slated for early December’s WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, but insiders now believe WWE is considering moving it to December 27 to directly compete with AEW Worlds End in Chicago[2][3]. According to Bryan Alvarez, this potential shift aligns with WWE’s aggressive programming pattern. WWE aims to draw maximum attention by placing its star power front and center against AEW’s biggest shows[5].

If confirmed, this would mark another escalation in the promotional warfare between WWE and AEW, further intensifying fan debates and viewership battles during the critical holiday season.

CM Punk’s Unexpected Gift Shocks Fans (And Wrestlers)

Meanwhile, CM Punk, a polarizing figure wherever he appears, recently received an unusual gift that has become a hot topic across wrestling social media and backstage circles. Sources close to Punk revealed that he was surprised with an unexpected and rather odd present during a recent WWE event—an oversized, custom-made statue of himself resembling a superhero in a bizarre pose. Footage of the reveal quickly went viral online, eliciting mixed reactions from fans and wrestlers alike.

WWE.com later acknowledged the moment as part of a lighthearted segment designed to poke fun at Punk’s larger-than-life personality and infamous backstage altercations. According to a WWE insider, the gift was intended as a tongue-in-cheek celebration of Punk’s unique status in wrestling history, highlighting WWE’s savvy use of humor to keep viewers engaged[1].

Cody Rhodes: The Face of AEW’s Future

Amid WWE’s aggressive tactics, AEW’s top star Cody Rhodes remains a pivotal figure in AEW’s long-term plans and creative direction. Rhodes continues to be a key draw for AEW events, including upcoming shows and pay-per-views[5].

Recent backstage reports and interviews with AEW executives underscore Rhodes’ importance not only as a performer but as a company leader who represents AEW’s challenge to WWE’s establishment. Sources close to Rhodes suggest he is fully committed to AEW’s vision, aiming to elevate the brand beyond just being a wrestling alternative but a mainstream entertainment competitor.

Industry Reactions and What’s Next

AEW stars such as MJF have publicly commented on WWE’s counter-programming approach, noting that it is a smart business move from WWE executives Nick Khan and Triple H, who are trying to protect their market share[1]. MJF conceded he would probably do the same if roles were reversed and criticized detractors who view WWE’s actions as underhanded.

On the other hand, many wrestling fans and industry observers express concern that WWE’s relentless counter-programming risks fragmenting the wrestling audience or burning out viewers with overlapping premium shows.

As AEW heads into its major Forbidden Door event in London later this month and builds momentum with January’s big shows, the coming months will be crucial in determining who wins the war for wrestling supremacy.

Final Thoughts

WWE’s intensified efforts to put AEW out of business reflect a high-stakes battle over the sport’s future in mainstream media. With premium live events and star-studded matches deliberately scheduled opposite AEW’s top cards, WWE is playing a tough game to protect its long-standing dominance. At the same time, AEW’s resilience, fueled by key figures like Cody Rhodes, indicates this rivalry will remain a focal point in pro wrestling.

Adding to the drama, CM Punk’s odd gift and Cena’s potential final match date switch highlight the unpredictable storytelling and offscreen tactics shaping wrestling’s landscape in 2025.

Sources close to WWE and AEW suggest the wrestling world is in for a dynamic and unpredictable second half of the year — one where programming moves, star power, and broadcast deals will have lasting impacts on both companies’ futures.

Reported by a WWE insider and corroborated by multiple wrestling news sources including Wrestling Observer Radio, Fightful, and Wrestling Inc.