Jeff Jarrett provided his blunt assessment of why WWE under TKO Group Holdings engages in counter-programming against AEW, stating it’s a business strategy aimed at market dominance and maximizing revenue, not a personal vendetta.
On his My World podcast, Jarrett addressed Tony Khan’s comments comparing the situation to the Jim Crockett Promotions era: “Beyond the shadow of a doubt, the number one reason it’s done is because it is the biggest competition. It goes without saying. I’ll say this, and I don’t even want to say it’s a bold statement, but AEW to WWE is a much bigger competition than Jim Crockett was to WWE, WWF at the time. I truly believe that in multiple scenarios.”
Jarrett stated WWE’s actions are by design: “I think it’s by design, and I’m also going to say that business is business, This is nothing personal against AEW whatsoever. It may feel personal. I think some fans may take it personal, but at the end of the day it is in TKO/The 90 day reports’ best interest to not just minimize but completely obliterate any kind of competition.”
He elaborated on TKO’s financial motivation: “If you’re a wrestling fan, TKO wants you buying their stuff, consuming their stuff, purchasing their stuff, and everything that goes with it because that’s how they can make the most money. That’s what it’s about. They are not worried, quote, unquote, about the wrestling business. They’re worried about their 90 day stock report. End all, be all, next question because that question is answered. I would expect nothing less.”
Jarrett concluded on TKO’s mindset: “It’s of the mindset of Ari Emmanuel on down that their mindset is to be the only game in town. I just think that they don’t quite know the history of the wrestling industry. Yes, it is a niche, and there’s a reason it’s a niche. You better know the ins and outs of this industry and at the end of the day. It all starts with the talent.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit AdFreeShows.com with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
