Mike & JD Show ep.87: Tessa Returns, AEW Business, & Lucha Bros Cause Trouble

JD returns this week as Mike & JD dissect the latest in wrestling, including AEW’s struggles in the ratings and at the box office, the staggering dominance of WWE, and seismic shifts in talent movement. With key stats and insights, they examine what’s causing AEW’s decline and whether TNA and WWE are capitalizing on these weaknesses.

Topics Covered:

• AEW’s Business Struggles

Ratings Down Across Dynamite, Rampage, and Collision, especially in the coveted 18-34 demo.

Despite a lucrative TV deal with WBD, AEW’s declining house shows and viewer erosion spell trouble long-term.

AEW’s "cool factor" is waning as fans call out inconsistent booking and a perception of the product becoming too "WWE-lite."

• WWE’s Continued Success

Raw and SmackDown thrive across all demos, far outpacing AEW.

WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event revival with PPV-level matches proves the company’s ability to draw major crowds.

WWE’s star power and stable storytelling reinforce a positive perception with fans and maintain strong house show attendance.

• AEW vs. WWE in Ticket Sales

WWE’s post-Christmas SmackDown and AEW’s Worlds End PPV go head-to-head in Orlando. WWE currently leads in ticket sales.

AEW’s biggest challenge: retaining younger viewers and keeping events feeling special and must-see.

• TNA’s Bold Moves for 2025

TNA announces major PPVs in Los Angeles and New York City, aiming to expand its footprint.

Questions arise about whether TNA can fill these larger arenas and whether strong ticket sales will follow the company’s ambitions.

• Tessa Blanchard’s Surprise Return to TNA

Tessa’s comeback at Final Resolution 2024 re-energizes the women’s division and sets up high-profile feuds.

Her return adds star power and historical significance given her past World Championship win in TNA.

• Lucha Bros’ Discontent with AEW

Rey Fenix’s deleted tweets accuse AEW of neglecting talent care, fueling rumors of dissatisfaction.

Pentagon Jr. hints at a future WWE run and confirms he’s dropping the "Pentagon Jr." name due to trademark issues. Both Lucha Bros appear poised to leave AEW once their contracts expire.

All this and more as Mike & JD break down the winners, losers, and what the future holds for each promotion.

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