Conflicting reports on WWE negotiating with top rival promotion
WWE surprised the wrestling world last year when it began working with outside promotions. The "forbidden door" really opened up for the pro wrestling powerhouse this year as it began collaborating with GCW, TNA, Dream Star Fighting Marigold, and Pro Wrestling NOAH. There is new conflicting information on potential talks with a major promotion for upcoming crossovers.
Lucha Libre sources reported last week that World Wrestling Entertainment was looking to establish alliances or agreements with pro wrestling companies in Mexico and Puerto Rico. The report noted that WWE officials "very recently" made contact with promotions in both countries as they are looking to create partnerships similar to what they have with groups like NOAH, TNA, and Marigold. No other details were provided, but now there are rumors about Triple H and his crew connecting with a long-running promotion.
It was reported earlier today that the Stamford-based promotion has been in talks with AAA CEO Dorian Roldán Peña. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that WWE is looking to have the NXT brand partner up with AAA, but no other details were provided. The report pointed to how CMLL may be WWE's preferred partner in Mexico, but a working relationship between the two seems unlikely as CMLL is currently working with NJPW and AEW.
Hugo Savinovich has dismissed the report on WWE talking with AAA. The veteran announcer reports that he spoke with Peña earlier today, and the AAA boss said he has not talked to NXT. The potential working relationship was not ruled out, but Peña said the earlier report is incorrect.
Vince McMahon partnered with AAA back in 1997 for the Royal Rumble from San Antonio, Texas. The 30-Man Royal Rumble featured Pierroth, Cybernetico, Latin Lover, and Mil Máscaras.
Next WWE PLE to feature NXT
World Wrestling Entertainment will present its NXT Heatwave PLE on Sunday, July 7. The big event will air live from the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Heatwave card will be finalized over the next two weeks, and that may include a major rumored main event change. Below is the current lineup:
- NXT Tag Team Champions Axiom and Nathan Frazer vs. Tag Team Turmoil winner from June 26
- NXT Women's North American Champion Kelani Jordan vs. Sol Ruca or Arianna Grace
- NXT Champion Trick Williams vs. Je'Von Evans
Heatwave is scheduled to begin airing on Peacock at 8 p.m. ET that night. The one-hour pre-show has not been confirmed as of this writing.