In a revealing discussion about the ongoing battle between WWE and AEW, Bryan Danielson openly questioned WWE’s recent approach to counter-programming AEW pay-per-view events, while wrestling legend Booker T delivered a blunt critique of Ronda Rousey’s current standing in the industry.

Bryan Danielson, one of the few wrestlers to have held world championships in both WWE and AEW, shared his thoughts in a recent interview with The Kairouz Bros podcast. Danielson expressed genuine curiosity about the reasoning behind WWE’s scheduling tactics that directly compete with AEW events. “I’m just curious, like, what the people who are making these decisions, what they’re thinking, right?” he said, highlighting his confusion over WWE’s frequent choice to hold shows simultaneously with AEW’s major pay-per-views[4].

In 2025, WWE has notably escalated what many see as a strategic counter-programming campaign. NXT pay-per-views like Great American Bash and Battleground coincided with AEW’s All In and Double or Nothing respectively. More recently, WWE’s NXT Heatwave event overlapped with AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, and WWE announced WrestlePalooza to take place on the same date as AEW All Out, setting a potential head-to-head clash in Indianapolis versus Toronto[1][2].

Danielson doesn’t view AEW as a direct threat to WWE’s billion-dollar business model since both operate on different scales and playfields. Instead, he suspects the decision makers are driven by other motivations. “It’s people who crave power and money who play weird games,” he commented, suggesting that WWE’s counter-programming may be less about competition and more about exerting control[4].

Meanwhile, AEW President Tony Khan has addressed these tactics publicly, emphasizing AEW’s focus on its own growth and quality rather than engaging in wrestling wars. Speaking ahead of the Forbidden Door event, Khan said, “We’re very focused on AEW and making the shows tremendous,” underscoring his company’s philosophy of focusing on product rather than reacting to WWE’s scheduling moves[2].

The wrestling community is divided over the effectiveness and necessity of WWE’s counter-programming. Some critics argue that in today’s era, unlike the 1990s, running simultaneous events with competing promotions may dilute viewership and strain the fanbase[3]. AEW demonstrated some flexibility by moving their All In 2025 event to the afternoon to avoid a direct time clash with WWE’s scheduling, illustrating a willingness to adapt[5].

Aside from commentary on company strategies, wrestling icon Booker T made waves with his candid remarks about Ronda Rousey’s relevance in the business. Speaking on a recent podcast, Booker T remarked bluntly, “Nobody cares about her besides herself!” This comment highlights the mixed reception Rousey has faced since transitioning fully from MMA to WWE, despite her star power and mainstream appeal.

Sources close to the industry indicate that Booker T’s statement reflects broader backstage frustrations with Rousey’s perceived self-promotion and inconsistent impact on WWE programming. While she remains a marquee name, not all fans or talent regard her as a central figure in WWE’s current landscape, especially compared to homegrown stars[4].

The WWE vs. AEW rivalry continues to evolve with these developments. WWE’s aggressive scheduling to coincide with AEW pay-per-views represents a bold competitive stance. However, voices like Bryan Danielson advocate for clarity and perhaps a more constructive approach, pointing out that power struggles and short-term tactics could ultimately undermine both promotions’ long-term growth.

As WWE prepares for WrestlePalooza on September 20 and AEW launches All Out on the same day, wrestling fans brace for a rare direct ratings clash that could redefine audience loyalties. Meanwhile, commentary from insiders like Danielson and Booker T provides nuanced perspectives on the personalities and politics driving this ongoing wrestling war.

For continued updates on WWE and AEW’s competitive dynamics, along with exclusive interviews and backstage reports, stay connected with wrestling industry sources including WWE.com, Fightful, and key wrestling podcasts.