TNA Wrestling could be heading for a major TV shakeup and the latest update points to a move that could place the company directly against AEW Dynamite every week.
Jon Alba of The Takedown on SI has confirmed that there have been discussions about TNA moving to a WWE-associated network, with the possibility of shifting Impact Wrestling from Thursday nights to Wednesdays.
While Alba noted it was not explicitly stated that The CW would be the destination, he said the networks interest in TNA is real and some WWE stakeholders would like to see the promotion become part of that lineup.
Nothing has been signed yet, and its unclear how far along the discussions are. When asked about the rumors, TNA President Carlos Silva acknowledged that media rights talks are ongoing, with more meetings scheduled for later this month, but no agreements finalized.
Positive momentum, Silva said of negotiations, while also clarifying that any move would be made based on whats best for the company, not just to compete with AEW.
This update comes amid WWEs aggressive strategy to weaken AEWs market position a plan that Wrestling Observers Dave Meltzer says includes wanting TNA to become the clear number two promotion, since WWE could control them more easily. Meltzer has reported that WWE has been counter-programming AEWs major events, even considering shifting shows to directly clash with pay-per-views like Worlds End and All Out.
Meanwhile, TNA is aiming for a new media rights deal worth around $10 million per year, which would allow Impact to air live every week. An announcement could come within the next couple of months.
Currently, Impact airs on AXS TV owned by TNAs parent company Anthem Sports & Entertainment as well as on TNA+. If a deal with a WWE-linked network like The CW materializes, it could mark the companys biggest television change in years.
Do you think moving to a WWE-affiliated network and running head-to-head with AEW is a smart play for TNA? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
