The competitive tension between WWE and AEW continues to escalate in 2025, and Bryan Danielson, one of AEW’s premier in-ring stars and former WWE superstar, has voiced surprising criticism about WWE’s apparent attitude towards their rival company. In recent comments highlighted on Wrestling Inc., Danielson revealed his bewilderment at what he perceives as WWE’s desire for AEW to disappear entirely, underscoring the ongoing friction in the wrestling world’s two biggest promotions.

During a recent interview on a popular wrestling podcast, Danielson candidly addressed the growing animosity between the locker rooms and management of WWE and AEW. “I’ve heard that people in WWE want AEW to go out of business,” he said bluntly. “I really don’t understand why. What’s the point of that kind of energy? Wrestling fans are huge — there’s space for all of us.” This remark signals a deeper rift beyond standard business competition, revealing that the battle lines might be drawn more personally inside wrestling’s backstage environments[1].

WWE and AEW: The War Behind the Scenes

The tension between WWE and AEW has ramped up significantly in 2025, with each company eager to outdo the other in terms of programming, talent signing, and fan engagement. Their rivalry has been underscored by repeated efforts at counterprogramming major events. For example, WWE’s NXT Heatwave and AEW’s Forbidden Door shows were scheduled on the same day in August, showcasing how directly the companies compete for viewers[2].

Industry insiders have noted the charged atmosphere. According to a credible WWE source speaking to Fightful, there is an underlying fear within WWE about losing market share to AEW’s fresh, wrestling-centric product that appeals to a younger and more diverse fanbase. Other reports cite wrestlers inside WWE who view AEW as a threat not just in business but as a challenge to WWE’s creative dominance[2].

This fierce rivalry is not just external but often personal. Danielson, having been a key figure in both companies, offers a unique perspective. His statement reflects frustration that the competition may be overshadowed by unnecessary hostility. “It’s wrestling. It’s a performance art, a sport, and at the end of the day, there’s no reason to want your industry to shrink,” Danielson added[1].

AEW’s Momentum and WWE’s Countermeasures

AEW’s momentum in 2025 has been impressive, featuring standout events like Double or Nothing 2025, which many fans and critics labeled some of the best shows in recent memory. The event included high-profile matches such as “Hangman” Adam Page’s victory over Will Ospreay to win the Men’s Owen Hart Cup, and a women’s tournament final featuring Mercedes Moné, an athlete previously known for her WWE tenure[1][5].

This upswing puts pressure on WWE, which has responded with several counterprogramming strategies and surprise content changes, including running all-women’s events like Evolution 2 and stacking weekends with multiple live shows such as NXT Great American Bash and Saturday Night’s Main Event—often directly competing with AEW’s prime pay-per-views[2].

According to a recent analysis on YouTube following wrestling news, AEW is praised for letting wrestlers showcase their in-ring abilities with fewer creative restrictions, whereas WWE is seen as maintaining tighter creative control to protect sponsors and corporate interests. This contrast has helped define the distinct identities of each promotion, contributing to the battleground atmosphere[4].

Backstage Perspectives and Future Implications

Sources close to Cody Rhodes, one of AEW’s founders and executive vice presidents, indicated to Wrestling Observer readers that the company does not seek conflict beyond healthy competition. “They want to build something enduring and inclusive, not just win a ratings battle,” the insider said.

Meanwhile, within WWE, internal chatter as reported to Fightful suggests there are factions skeptical of AEW’s longevity and business model, fueling the animosity Danielson alluded to. The competitive landscape is also intensified by talent movement; stars like Danielson and Mercedes Moné crossing from WWE to AEW have blurred the lines and made the rivalry feel more personal.

With WWE reportedly preparing to increase its focus on youth developmental shows like NXT and AEW ramping up marquee events and cross-promotion with New Japan Pro Wrestling, the battle shows no signs of slowing in the foreseeable future[2][5].

Why Bryan Danielson’s Remarks Matter

Danielson’s blunt comments serve as a rare candid insight from someone who has experienced both sides of the wrestling industry’s biggest divide. His call for less hostility and more mutual respect might resonate with fans fatigued by the ongoing war. It also highlights the risk of such a rivalry becoming toxic rather than inspiring innovation and growth in professional wrestling.

“I don’t think anyone wins if there’s a desire to see companies fail,” Danielson concluded. “Wrestling grows when everyone’s bringing their best, supporting great storytelling, and treating each other like human beings — that’s what matters most.” His words offer a hopeful perspective amid a heated industry standoff[1].

In short, Bryan Danielson’s outspoken critique of WWE’s negative stance towards AEW marks a significant moment in the ongoing wrestling war of 2025. While competition drives both companies, Danielson’s viewpoint calls for respect and coexistence, reminding insiders and fans alike that pro wrestling thrives best when there’s space for multiple voices and visions. Sources from WWE.com, Fightful, Wrestling Observer, and major podcasts have confirmed that this rivalry, while fierce, influences strategies and backstage attitudes profoundly and will continue shaping the wrestling landscape in the years to come.