WWE Fixed on Crushing Competition and Fueling Toxic Fandom

The competition between WWE and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has been characterized by what many consider to be a series of petty and anti-competitive actions, particularly on the part of WWE. This approach appears to be rooted in a desire to prevent any competitor from reaching the level of success once achieved by WCW, which forced WWE to work harder and innovate. The modern-day parallel of this rivalry extends from the top corporate level down to the fan base.

Corporate Anti-Competition
The business tactics of WWE and its parent company, TKO, have been described as intentionally disruptive. Reports suggest that WWE has scheduled its own premium live events (PLEs) on the same weekends as major AEW pay-per-views, a strategy seen as an attempt to undercut their competitor and divide the audience. 

This move is allegedly aimed at monopolizing the market, which would allow WWE to dictate prices for its products and, as seen with TKO's other assets like the UFC, potentially reduce wrestler salaries by minimizing the need for competitive compensation. A protest by a stagehands union outside an AEW event, alleging that workers were being paid below standard rates, further highlights the economic tensions within the industry. While AEW has distanced itself from the protest, this incident draws attention to the broader struggles over worker compensation and unionization in professional wrestling, an area that could be affected by a lack of genuine competition.

Fanbase and Body Shaming
The rivalry's pettiness is not limited to corporate boardrooms; it has also seeped into the fanbases. Fans of both companies, particularly those who are highly loyal to WWE, have engaged in what is described as "juvenile" and "delusional" behavior. A prime example of this is the body shaming directed at AEW wrestlers. 

One AEW star recently opened up about facing "ruthless" body-shaming comments from fans, highlighting how this online harassment goes beyond typical wrestling critiques. This behavior stands in stark contrast to AEW's reported efforts to support its talent, which includes offering a tuition reimbursement program to wrestlers. This benefit is a significant step toward providing performers with long-term stability and is considered a rarity within the wrestling industry, showcasing a different corporate philosophy.

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