The ongoing rivalry between WWE and AEW has escalated beyond the ring, with Bryan Danielson (formerly WWE’s Daniel Bryan) recently expressing confusion over WWE’s apparent desire for AEW to “go out of business.” Speaking candidly in a recent podcast interview, Danielson revealed his perspective on the promotional war that continues to dominate professional wrestling news in 2025.

Danielson’s comments come at a time when WWE and AEW have engaged in several head-to-head showdowns throughout the year, often scheduling pay-per-views and live events to directly compete with each other. In an industry where market dominance and fan loyalty are fiercely contested, Danielson’s insight sheds light on the backstage tension currently simmering within WWE circles.

Danielson’s Take on WWE’s Attitude Toward AEW

According to Danielson, there are people inside WWE who unmistakably want AEW to cease operations altogether. He stated he does not understand the reasoning behind that stance, considering the benefits of competition in wrestling. Danielson said in the interview:

“I know there’s this feeling that AEW should go away, but I really don’t get why. Competition helps all of us get better and brings new ideas to the table. Wrestling benefits when there’s more than one option.”

His viewpoint highlights a contrast with reported WWE strategies over 2025, where counter-programming efforts aiming to undercut AEW’s major shows have been a recurring theme.

WWE’s Counter-Programming and Strategy in 2025

Sources such as Fightful and WrestleVotes have documented WWE’s more aggressive scheduling tactics throughout much of the year. For instance, WWE often ran NXT premium live events directly opposite AEW pay-per-views like Double or Nothing, All In, and Forbidden Door. Just recently, WWE announced a new Premium Live Event (PLE) scheduled for September 20, the same night AEW’s huge All Out pay-per-view will take place at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, deepening the competition aspect[2].

However, industry insiders reveal a subtle shift heading into the final months of 2025. According to a source with direct WWE scheduling knowledge via WrestleVotes Radio and PWMania, WWE will not run opposing shows against AEW’s remaining pay-per-views — WrestleDream (October 18), Full Gear (November 22), and Worlds End (December 27)[1][6]. This pivot suggests WWE might be reconsidering direct clashes, possibly as a strategic or financial move.

Interestingly, plans to place John Cena’s highly anticipated retirement match against AEW’s Worlds End were considered but ultimately abandoned, affirming WWE’s more cautious approach for the remainder of the year[1].

Backstage Perspectives and Industry Impact

Sources close to WWE hint that the promotion’s leadership views AEW as both a threat and a motivator — one that has revitalized the wrestling business by pushing WWE to innovate. However, some factions inside WWE reportedly fear that AEW’s growth could erode WWE’s market share and fanbase, fueling the desire to “put them out of business” as Danielson described.

An insider told WrestleTalk recently:

“WWE is always wary of any competitor that gains momentum. AEW’s fresh storytelling and wrestling focus have attracted a segment of fans WWE struggles to capture consistently.”

Yet, Danielson’s comments remind fans and executives alike of the value brought by having multiple strong wrestling promotions. His voice — a bridge between both worlds as a former WWE mainstay now thriving in AEW — provides a unique, balanced perspective.

Wrestling Fans’ Response

The wrestling community remains polarized over WWE vs. AEW debates. Many fans appreciate AEW’s wrestling-centric approach and talent development, while longtime WWE viewers praise its global reach and major event spectacle. Danielson’s statement may further fuel talks about whether the wrestling industry is better served by intense rivalry or more cooperative coexistence.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for WWE and AEW

With the rest of 2025’s live event calendar showing fewer direct clashes, some experts speculate that WWE might focus on strengthening its standalone product and marquee rivalries — including fresh programs involving top talents like Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and John Cena — rather than chasing AEW show-for-show[3].

AEW, meanwhile, continues to build momentum with landmark events like All Out and WrestleDream, featuring high-profile matches like the AEW World Championship bouts and innovative storylines[5]. The company’s willingness to push wrestlers’ creative boundaries contrasts with WWE’s more structured style, keeping the competitive balance dynamic.

According to a WWE insider:

“WWE acknowledges AEW’s contribution to the wrestling ecosystem, but the business side naturally drives a desire to maintain dominance. Still, internal voices like Bryan Danielson’s push for a healthier competition perspective.”

Conclusion

Bryan Danielson’s recent remarks underscore a deeper conversation about rivalry, innovation, and future directions in professional wrestling. While WWE’s desire to outperform AEW is clear, Danielson questions the ultimate objective of wishing AEW “out of business.” Instead, his stance advocates for the benefits of competition that raises the art form and offers fans rich variety.

As WWE and AEW continue their complex dance through scheduling battles, business strategies, and creative storytelling, wrestling fans can expect an intriguing landscape shaped by both conflict and cooperation, with voices like Danielson’s encouraging a broader view on growth and success in the industry.