The wrestling world is abuzz with the latest scheduling showdown between WWE and AEW, with Dave Meltzer weighing in on the matter. The wrestling analyst and commentator has questioned WWE's decision to once again attempt to counterprogram AEW's pay-per-view event, Forbidden Door, on June 28, 2026. This move comes as a surprise, given the history of failed attempts by WWE to counterprogram AEW in the past.
Meltzer's main concern is the lack of success in WWE's previous attempts to counterprogram AEW. He points out that WWE tried the same strategy multiple times in 2025, but it didn't work. AEW's shows not only performed better than expected, but WWE's shows underperformed, indicating that the strategy is not a reliable way to boost WWE's events.
The analyst also highlights the potential negative impact on TNA, who will be hosting their annual Slammiversary pay-per-view on the same day. TNA will suffer as much, if not more, than NXT, as the partnership between WWE and TNA will be disrupted. Meltzer argues that the scheduling coincidence is highly unlikely, given the frequency of such attempts by WWE.
The potential outcome is a double-edged sword for both NXT and TNA. NXT's show, The Great American Bash, will be on free TV, while Slammiversary will be on pay-per-view. This could lead to a shift in viewer behavior, with casual fans opting for the free TV option and saving money. However, Meltzer also considers the fatigue factor, suggesting that fans might be exhausted after watching Night of Champions the day before, potentially impacting both NXT and TNA's attendance.
In conclusion, Meltzer's commentary highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of scheduling decisions in the wrestling industry. The analyst's insights provide a deeper understanding of the strategic considerations and the impact on various stakeholders, including fans, wrestlers, and promotions.
