All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is preparing to significantly revamp its production approach starting in 2025, shifting toward a more sports-style presentation that aims to enhance both the live fan experience and television broadcasts. Sources close to AEW’s production team reveal that the changes are driven by advances in technology and a desire to create a clearer distinction between the in-arena show and the televised product, elevating the overall dynamism of AEW events[1][2][4].

According to Mike Mansury, AEW’s Executive Vice President and Head of Global Production, the company is embracing cutting-edge IP-based production technology through a new partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), which provides access to revamped IP-based mobile production trucks. This move allows AEW to push the boundaries of live wrestling broadcast production: “The idea was getting more IP-based with everything that we are doing. How can we get AEW to be more towards the cutting edge?… We’re a lovely hybrid between sport and entertainment, and this technology allows us to be trendsetters rather than followers,” Mansury said in an interview with Sports Video Group[2][5].

What Fans Can Expect From AEW Production in 2025

One of the key highlights of the production overhaul is an enhanced in-person experience at AEW live events. Mansury elaborated, “Starting in 2025, you’ll see more of a sports-style presentation in-arena, with added entertainment options during segments when there isn’t live in-ring content or taped segments airing on television. We want to create a distinct separation between the live event and the TV show, making the experience special for fans attending the shows.” This signals a move toward filling downtime with engaging content that mimics professional sports events, offering continuous fan engagement[1][3][4].

Backstage sources also noted that AEW’s current production setup, which includes approximately 16 touring trucks split into A and B units, will be modernized. Upgrades include a first-in-North-America IP-based production truck equipped with an EVS MediaInfra Strata router — technology that boosts video routing efficiency and allows for more flexible, high-quality broadcasts[2][4][5].

AEW’s Commitment to Innovation and Fan Engagement

AEW’s production evolution reflects the company’s broader strategy under President Tony Khan to keep the brand at the forefront of live sports-entertainment presentation. The recent multi-year media deal with Warner Bros. Discovery has not only increased AEW’s financial resources but also unlocked access to advanced production tech and infrastructure to realize these ambitious goals[2][4].

Sources close to AEW revealed that these changes are also intended to address some past critiques from fans who felt AEW occasionally leaned too heavily on a “sports entertainment” style that watered down the pure sports aspect the company initially promised. By embracing this sports-style presentation, AEW aims to better balance the intensity and realism of live wrestling with the spectacle and storytelling fans expect, potentially influencing everything from in-arena lighting to production pacing and crowd engagement tactics[3].

AEW’s Production Tweaks Leading Up to 2025

Throughout 2024, AEW has experimented with various production elements, including adjustments to pyro use, weekly lighting schemes, and the televised ring area presentation. Notably, AEW temporarily removed LED aprons and barricades from their TV broadcasts, opting for a simpler look with traditional barricades and less flashy on-screen graphics. This pared-down approach was part of a broader effort to refine production aesthetics and deliver a clearer visual identity on-screen[Reference summary].

According to insiders, these ongoing trials have informed the major overhaul planned for next year. The goal is to marry AEW’s high-energy live atmosphere with the polished look and feel of a top-tier sports broadcast, creating a unique product in the professional wrestling landscape.

What This Means for WWE and the Wrestling Industry

As AEW pushes forward on this production front, industry experts and WWE insiders are watching closely. AEW’s appointment of Mike Mansury—a former WWE production leader—underscores a serious intent to rival WWE’s longstanding dominance in live wrestling production. The imminent launch of AEW’s technology-driven in-person presentation and enhanced broadcast methods could reshape fan expectations across wrestling, intensifying competition between the promotions[1][2].

A WWE insider told Fightful, “AEW’s new production strategy leverages next-level tech and a sports-driven presentation that WWE will need to carefully observe. It’s not just about the wrestlers anymore—how you deliver the show live and on TV matters enormously to the fan experience and brand loyalty.”

Looking Ahead: AEW’s Future in Live and Broadcast Production

Fans can look forward to seeing these changes roll out with the 2025 seasons of AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision. The shows will simulcast on cable and WBD’s Max streaming service, leveraging the revamped production infrastructure to offer a visually enriched and more immersive viewing experience[4].

These enhancements are also expected to impact AEW’s major pay-per-view events, which will soon be available on the Max platform at discounted prices, aiming to attract a broader digital audience while rewarding live attendance with a more engaging arena atmosphere[4].

Summary

• AEW is upgrading its production with IP-based mobile facilities and advanced technology, including the EVS MediaInfra Strata router.
• Starting 2025, expect a sports-style in-arena presentation that entertains fans during non-wrestling segments and creates a separate feel between live events and TV shows.
• These changes come alongside a lucrative multi-year deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, boosting production capabilities.
• AEW’s focus is on becoming a trendsetter in wrestling production, blending sport and entertainment innovatively.
• Industry sources believe this could elevate AEW’s standing as a serious competitor to WWE’s production standards.

According to a WWE insider, “AEW’s production overhaul marks a critical evolution in wrestling presentation. It’s clear they’re aiming to redefine live and televised wrestling for the modern era.”

With these strategic production investments and creative approaches, AEW is positioning itself not just as an alternative wrestling promotion, but as a true innovator redefining how wrestling shows can captivate audiences worldwide in 2025 and beyond.