In a monumental shift in the world of professional wrestling, WWE has officially announced the acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, known simply as AAA, on Saturday, April 19, 2025. This landmark announcement was made just before the highly anticipated WrestleMania 41, taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, and has sent ripples of excitement throughout the wrestling community.
The announcement was made during a pre-show event at the Allegiant Stadium, where WWE's legendary commentator Michael Cole took center stage to share the news. He was joined by prominent figures from both organizations, including Paul Levesque, better known as Triple H, who is WWE's Executive Vice President of Talent Relations and Chief Content Officer, and Dorian Roldán Peña, the General Director of AAA. Also present were Marisela Peña, the President of AAA, and Alberto Fasja Cohen, owner of Grupo Axo.
“It's really important for us. It's the beginning of a new chapter in the history of wrestling,” said Dorian Roldán, reflecting on the significance of the acquisition. He elaborated on the legacy of AAA, which was founded by his uncle Antonio Peña in 1992. This acquisition not only marks a new era for AAA but also solidifies its presence in the global wrestling landscape.
Triple H emphasized that this alliance would benefit the wrestling industry in Mexico, stating, “This is a partnership 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.”
The acquisition comes after a year of speculation and rumors within the wrestling community, and it is set to create numerous opportunities for talent from both organizations. The first joint event, titled "Worlds Collide," has been announced for June 7, 2025, at the KIA Forum in Inglewood, California. This event will feature talent from both WWE and AAA, marking the first collaboration since the Royal Rumble in 1997, which also showcased AAA talent.
Worlds Collide promises to be a thrilling showcase, pitting AAA wrestlers against NXT competitors. Fans can expect to see notable AAA stars like Psycho Clown, Dr. Wagner, and El Patrón, who may be available for the event. This collaboration is anticipated to bring a unique blend of wrestling styles and storytelling to audiences, further enriching the wrestling experience.
As the news broke, former AAA stars such as Rey Mysterio, Penta, and Rey Fénix were in attendance, adding to the event's nostalgic atmosphere. Rey Mysterio, a legendary figure in both AAA and WWE, has a storied history that connects the two promotions. His presence at the announcement underscores the importance of this acquisition for both companies.
Additionally, the announcement coincided with a significant moment for Rey Fénix, who was called to replace Rey Mysterio in a scheduled match at WrestleMania due to Mysterio's injury. This move not only highlights the rising talent from AAA but also symbolizes the new era that the acquisition heralds.
The wrestling world is abuzz with anticipation as fans and analysts speculate on the potential matchups and storylines that could emerge from this historic partnership. The collaboration between WWE and AAA is expected to elevate the profile of Mexican wrestling on a global scale, introducing new audiences to the rich traditions and vibrant characters that AAA is known for.
With the acquisition by TKO Group Holdings, which also owns UFC, WWE's influence is set to expand further into the Mexican market. This strategic move is seen as a way to tap into the passionate fanbase that AAA has cultivated over the years.
As the countdown to WrestleMania 41 continues, the excitement surrounding the Worlds Collide event is palpable. Fans are eager to see how this new partnership will unfold and what it means for the future of both promotions. The integration of AAA talent into WWE programming is expected to create a dynamic shift in storytelling and in-ring performances, offering fans a fresh perspective on wrestling.
In conclusion, WWE's acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide marks a significant milestone in wrestling history, promising to reshape the landscape of professional wrestling as fans know it. As WWE prepares for WrestleMania 41, the anticipation for the upcoming Worlds Collide event is building, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in the world of wrestling.
