Is WWE or AEW Bigger?

When it comes to professional wrestling, two major promotions have been dominating the industry in recent years – WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and AEW (All Elite Wrestling). Both companies have a massive following and a roster of talented athletes, but the question remains: which one is bigger?

The History of WWE

WWE, previously known as WWF (World Wrestling Federation), has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s. Over the years, WWE has become synonymous with professional wrestling and has established itself as the biggest and most well-known promotion in the world.

With legendary wrestlers such as Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and John Cena, WWE has captivated audiences for decades. Its flagship event, WrestleMania, draws millions of viewers worldwide each year.

The Rise of AEW

AEW burst onto the scene in 2019 as a new alternative to WWE. Founded by businessman Tony Khan and professional wrestlers Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks, AEW aimed to provide a fresh take on professional wrestling.

AEW quickly gained popularity with its innovative storytelling, high-energy matches, and emphasis on athleticism. It signed top independent wrestlers from around the world and showcased their skills on national television.

A Comparison of Reach

In terms of reach and global recognition, WWE currently holds the upper hand. With its long-standing history and extensive media coverage, WWE has established itself as a household name.

Its weekly flagship shows like Raw and SmackDown garner millions of viewers worldwide.

However, AEW has made significant strides in a short period. While it may not match WWE’s reach just yet, it has managed to carve out a dedicated fanbase. Its weekly show, AEW Dynamite, consistently delivers competitive ratings and has introduced fresh talent to the mainstream audience.

Financial Success

WWE undoubtedly holds the edge in terms of financial success. With lucrative television deals, merchandise sales, and a global presence, WWE generates substantial revenue.

The company’s market value and profitability are significantly higher than that of AEW.

On the other hand, AEW has proven to be financially stable and profitable since its inception. It has secured a television deal with TNT and has expanded its revenue streams through pay-per-view events and merchandise sales.

Fan Engagement

Fan engagement is where AEW shines. The promotion has successfully tapped into the desires of hardcore wrestling fans who were seeking an alternative product.

AEW’s fanbase is passionate, vocal, and actively involved in the promotion’s success.

WWE, while still having a dedicated fanbase, has faced criticism in recent years for its creative decisions and lack of long-term storytelling. However, it continues to attract casual viewers due to its brand recognition and larger-than-life characters.

The Verdict

In conclusion, determining which promotion is bigger – WWE or AEW – is not as straightforward as it may seem. While WWE maintains its position as the industry leader with global reach and financial success, AEW has made significant strides in challenging the status quo.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Some fans prefer WWE’s established brand and larger-than-life spectacle, while others gravitate towards AEW’s fresh approach and emphasis on in-ring action.

No matter which promotion you support or consider bigger, both WWE and AEW have undoubtedly revitalized professional wrestling by providing fans with exciting and diverse options to enjoy.