In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, WWE officially announced the acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) on April 19, 2025, just before the highly anticipated WrestleMania 41. The announcement was made at a press conference held outside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, where WWE's creative director, Paul "Triple H" Levesque, and Dorian Roldán Peña, the head of AAA, shared their excitement about this historic partnership.
“This is an alliance that will benefit the entire world of sports entertainment. AAA has been a cultural pillar in Mexico and home to many WWE superstars. This partnership will ensure that AAA remains the premier destination for wrestling in Mexico,” Triple H stated during the event.
The first collaborative event under this new alliance, titled "Worlds Collide," is scheduled to take place on June 7, 2025, at the KIA Forum in Inglewood, California. This event aims to break the so-called "forbidden door," allowing wrestlers from both promotions to compete against each other, a concept that has been gaining traction in the wrestling industry.
Roldán Peña expressed his pride in the legacy of AAA, which has been managed by his family for over three decades. He reflected on the impact his uncle, Antonio Peña, and his father, Joaquín Roldán, have had on the promotion, stating, “We are proud of what AAA represents. Today we start a new chapter.”
The excitement surrounding "Worlds Collide" is palpable, with fans speculating about potential matchups. One highly anticipated bout is La Hiedra versus Stephanie Vaquer, each representing their respective brands. Other notable wrestlers that may appear include Psycho Clown, Dr. Wagner Jr., and El Patrón Alberto, who has a storied history with WWE.
“This partnership opens the door for Mexican wrestlers to perform on one of the largest platforms in sports entertainment. We are thrilled to see how this will evolve,” said Roldán Peña.
The collaboration marks a return to a time when AAA and WWE had a close relationship in the 1990s. The original "Worlds Collide" event took place in 1994, featuring legendary matches such as Los Gringos Locos (Eddie Guerrero and Art Barr) against El Hijo del Santo and Octagón. This historical context adds to the anticipation for the upcoming event, which promises to showcase the best talent from both organizations.
WWE's acquisition of AAA is not just about the immediate future; it also signifies a long-term strategy to enhance the global appeal of wrestling. The integration of AAA into the TKO Group, which also owns UFC, indicates a broader vision for sports entertainment.
As fans eagerly await the June event, the wrestling community is buzzing with speculation about the potential interactions between AAA and WWE talent. With the promise of more joint events in the future, this partnership could redefine the landscape of wrestling.
In conclusion, the announcement of WWE's acquisition of AAA and the upcoming "Worlds Collide" event marks a significant milestone in the history of wrestling. It not only celebrates the rich traditions of Lucha Libre but also paves the way for exciting new opportunities for wrestlers and fans alike.
