The long-running battle between wrestling giants WWE and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is heating up like never before. In a bold strategic move, WWE is deliberately scheduling major shows on the same dates as AEW’s headline events—a clear signal that the company, backed by parent group TKO Holdings, is shifting into competitive overdrive.
The latest flashpoint: WWE’s NXT Great American Bash and Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME) have both been scheduled for July 12, 2025, clashing directly with AEW’s marquee show, All In: Texas. To follow that up, WWE plans to air Evolution, its women-only premium live event, on July 13—just a day after AEW’s biggest annual spectacle. The timing is no coincidence, insiders say.
According to reports from WrestleVotes Radio – Backstage Pass, WWE’s top brass, with full support from TKO, are pushing for this aggressive booking strategy to dominate fan attention and social media conversations, even after AEW’s events have ended.
“If AEW’s having All In in the afternoon, WWE wants to come in later with SNME so that by the end of the night, everyone’s still talking about WWE,” said a source from WrestleVotes. “It’s about stealing the narrative and keeping the brand in constant focus.”
This calculated disruption signals WWE’s refusal to cede ground to AEW, which has steadily grown its global presence since its 2019 launch by Tony Khan. AEW, now widely recognized as WWE’s biggest North American competitor, has drawn massive crowds and online traction with its edgy storytelling, loyal fan base, and partnerships with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and other promotions.
But WWE’s move isn’t isolated. The report further reveals that WWE will hold NXT Heatwave on August 24, the same day AEW and NJPW are co-hosting Forbidden Door, a highly anticipated cross-promotional event. This repeat scheduling pattern confirms WWE’s intent to shadow AEW’s every major move.
While the WWE-AEW rivalry has been fierce since day one, this escalating “date war” could transform the wrestling landscape by forcing fans to choose—and likely boosting viewership and online debate for both promotions.
Reactions from fans have been divided. Some praise WWE’s strategy as “brilliant business” and “vintage Vince,” while others see it as a petty distraction from developing fresh storylines. AEW supporters, meanwhile, continue to rally behind the brand’s commitment to innovation and fan-first programming.
Regardless of fan opinion, one thing is clear: WWE is determined to control the spotlight, not share it. And with TKO’s full backing, more date clashes and bold plays may be on the horizon.