Is TNA as Big as WWE?By Coder| September 29, 2023 Wrestling Blogs When it comes to professional wrestling, there are two major players that dominate the industry – WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling). While WWE has been around for decades and is known worldwide, TNA has gained significant popularity in recent years. But is TNA really as big as WWE? Let’s examine the factors that contribute to their respective sizes. The History of WWE WWE, formerly known as WWF (World Wrestling Federation), has a long and storied history. It was founded in 1952 by Jess McMahon and Toots Mondt under the name Capitol Wrestling Corporation (CWC). Since then, WWE has evolved into a global phenomenon, producing weekly television shows, pay-per-view events, and even branching out into movies and merchandise. Throughout its history, WWE has showcased some of the most iconic wrestlers of all time, including Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, and many others. With such legendary names associated with the company, it’s no wonder that WWE has become synonymous with professional wrestling. The Rise of TNA TNA was founded in 2002 by Jeff Jarrett and his father Jerry Jarrett. Initially named NWA-TNA due to its affiliation with the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), the company rebranded itself as Total Nonstop Action Wrestling in 2004. TNA offered an alternative style of wrestling compared to the more scripted nature of WWE. TNA quickly gained a following among fans who were looking for something different from the mainstream product offered by WWE. The company focused on high-flying action and showcased emerging talent from around the world. Stars like AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Kurt Angle, and Sting became synonymous with TNA and helped elevate its status in the wrestling industry. Size Comparison While TNA has undoubtedly made significant strides in the wrestling world, it is still not on the same level as WWE in terms of size and reach. WWE’s weekly flagship show, Monday Night Raw, attracts millions of viewers worldwide, and their pay-per-view events generate substantial revenue. Additionally, WWE has a massive social media presence and a dedicated fanbase that spans across multiple generations. TNA, on the other hand, has faced several challenges throughout its existence. The company has struggled with financial issues and had difficulty securing consistent television deals. This lack of stability has limited their exposure and prevented them from reaching the same level as WWE. The Importance of Branding One major factor contributing to WWE’s dominance is its branding strategy. WWE has successfully positioned itself as an entertainment company that produces wrestling content, rather than just a wrestling promotion. This approach allows them to attract a broader audience beyond traditional wrestling fans. They have created larger-than-life characters and storylines that resonate with viewers of all ages. With partnerships with major brands like Mattel and video game developer 2K Sports, WWE’s branding extends far beyond their TV shows. The Future for TNA TNA continues to evolve and adapt to stay relevant in the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling. In recent years, they have rebranded themselves as Impact Wrestling and focused on showcasing international talent alongside established stars. TNA’s partnership with AXS TV in 2019 provided them with more exposure and opportunities to grow their audience. While it may be a long road ahead, TNA has the potential to become a significant player in the wrestling industry. By continuing to provide an alternative product and attracting new fans, they can carve out their own niche and establish themselves as a legitimate competitor to WWE. Conclusion In conclusion, while TNA has made significant strides in the wrestling industry, it is still not on the same level as WWE in terms of size, reach, and overall influence. WWE’s long-standing history, global presence, and successful branding strategy have solidified its position as the biggest player in professional wrestling. However, TNA’s dedication to providing an alternative product and their recent partnerships may pave the way for future success. Only time will tell if TNA can truly challenge WWE’s dominance.
