Does WWE Own TNA Impact Wrestling?

One of the most frequently asked questions in the world of professional wrestling is whether WWE owns Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Impact Wrestling. TNA Impact Wrestling, now known as Impact Wrestling, has been a major player in the industry for over two decades. In this article, we will explore the relationship between WWE and TNA Impact Wrestling and determine if WWE indeed owns the promotion.

The Origins of TNA Impact Wrestling

TNA Impact Wrestling was founded in 2002 by Jeff Jarrett and Jerry Jarrett. Originally known as NWA: Total Nonstop Action, the promotion aimed to provide an alternative to WWE’s dominance in the wrestling industry. Over the years, TNA Impact Wrestling gained a loyal fanbase and showcased some of the most talented wrestlers from around the world.

Rumors of WWE’s Interest

Throughout its existence, there have been numerous rumors suggesting that WWE has shown interest in acquiring TNA Impact Wrestling. Many wrestling fans speculated that WWE would eventually absorb its competitor, similar to what it did with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 2001. However, these rumors remained just that – rumors.

The Acquisition by Anthem Sports & Entertainment

In 2017, after facing financial difficulties, TNA Impact Wrestling was acquired by Anthem Sports & Entertainment. This acquisition marked a new era for the promotion under Anthem’s ownership. Despite this change in ownership, speculation about WWE’s involvement continued to circulate.

The Arrival of Former TNA Talents in WWE

Although WWE did not acquire TNA Impact Wrestling as a whole, they have brought in several former TNA talents over the years. Notable wrestlers such as AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Bobby Roode, and Eric Young all made their names in TNA before joining WWE. This led some fans to believe that WWE was indirectly acquiring TNA Impact Wrestling by signing its top stars.

The Global Force Wrestling Connection

In 2017, Jeff Jarrett, the co-founder of TNA Impact Wrestling, launched a new promotion called Global Force Wrestling (GFW). GFW had a working relationship with TNA Impact Wrestling, which further fueled speculation about WWE’s involvement. However, this partnership was short-lived, and GFW eventually rebranded itself as Impact Wrestling.

The Current Status of TNA Impact Wrestling

As of now, WWE does not own TNA Impact Wrestling or have any official stake in the promotion. Impact Wrestling operates as a separate entity under Anthem Sports & Entertainment and continues to produce its own shows and pay-per-view events.

In conclusion,

While there have been numerous rumors and speculations about WWE’s potential ownership of TNA Impact Wrestling, these claims remain unfounded. The promotion is currently under the ownership of Anthem Sports & Entertainment and operates independently from WWE.

Whether or not WWE will ever acquire TNA Impact Wrestling in the future remains uncertain. For now, wrestling fans can enjoy the diverse offerings from both promotions as they continue to entertain audiences worldwide.