Hey wrestling fans! Are you itching to know what’s in store for the squared circle this year? I get it. The anticipation for new matches, fresh rivalries, and jaw-dropping moments is part of what makes wrestling so exciting. With different promotions putting on shows throughout the year, it can be tricky to keep track of everything.
That’s why we’re going to break down everything you need to know about wrestling this year. We’ll explore the major promotions, their schedules, and the key events you absolutely can’t miss. I’ll cover the big players like WWE, AEW, and some of the independent scenes. So, get ready to grab your popcorn, because we’re about to dive into the world of professional wrestling and answer the burning question: Is there going to be wrestling this year? Let’s find out!
The Big Leagues: Wwe and Aew
When we talk about professional wrestling, the first names that come to mind are usually WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and AEW (All Elite Wrestling). These two promotions dominate the wrestling landscape, and for good reason. They both have massive rosters of talented wrestlers, incredible production values, and passionate fan bases.
Wwe’s 2024 Outlook
WWE continues to be a global powerhouse, putting on shows weekly on their flagship shows, *Monday Night Raw* and *Friday Night SmackDown*. They also have premium live events (PLEs) that are broadcast on Peacock in the US and on the WWE Network internationally. 2024 promises to be a year filled with exciting matches, new storylines, and the continued development of their stars. WWE has a packed schedule of PLEs planned, with events happening almost every month.
Key WWE Events to Watch Out For:
- Royal Rumble: This is where the road to WrestleMania begins. The Royal Rumble match itself is always a highlight, with surprise entrants and exciting eliminations.
- WrestleMania: The biggest wrestling event of the year, spanning two nights, featuring the top stars in the company.
- SummerSlam: A major summer event that often features some of the biggest matches of the year.
- Survivor Series: This event has been revamped in recent years and often features a unique theme or format.
- Money in the Bank: This PLE is always thrilling, with the Money in the Bank ladder matches guaranteeing a future title opportunity.
Where to Watch WWE: (See Also: How Is Wrestling Staged )
- Raw and SmackDown: These shows air weekly on USA Network and FOX, respectively.
- PLEs: Available on Peacock (US) and WWE Network (international).
Aew’s 2024 Plans
AEW has quickly established itself as a major player in the wrestling world, offering an alternative to WWE with a focus on in-ring action and a more wrestling-centric approach. They regularly put on exciting shows with a deep roster of talent, including many of the best wrestlers in the world. Their flagship shows, *Dynamite* and *Collision*, air weekly on TBS and TNT, respectively. AEW continues to grow their fanbase and is always looking to expand their presence in the wrestling world.
Key AEW Events to Watch Out For:
- Revolution: This event usually features major title matches and the culmination of long-running storylines.
- Double or Nothing: AEW’s annual Memorial Day weekend event, held in Las Vegas, is always a big draw.
- All Out: A major event held over Labor Day weekend.
- Full Gear: This event often features some of the most brutal and exciting matches of the year.
- Forbidden Door: AEW’s annual cross-promotional event with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), which is always a must-see for wrestling fans.
Where to Watch AEW:
- Dynamite: Airs weekly on TBS.
- Collision: Airs weekly on TNT.
- PLEs: Available on pay-per-view and through Bleacher Report in the US and FITE internationally.
The Independent Wrestling Scene: A World of Options
Beyond the major promotions, there’s a thriving independent wrestling scene. This is where you can find some of the most innovative and exciting wrestling in the world. The independent scene is diverse, with promotions catering to all sorts of wrestling styles and fan preferences. These promotions often serve as a proving ground for up-and-coming wrestlers, and many stars eventually make their way to WWE or AEW.
Key Independent Promotions to Watch
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW): Based in Japan, NJPW is known for its hard-hitting, fast-paced matches and incredible in-ring talent. They’ve built a strong relationship with AEW, which has led to exciting crossover events.
- Ring of Honor (ROH): Now owned by AEW, ROH provides a showcase for up-and-coming talent and offers a different style of wrestling.
- Impact Wrestling: A long-running promotion that focuses on storytelling and diverse wrestling styles.
- Major League Wrestling (MLW): MLW offers a unique blend of wrestling styles and focuses on a more sports-oriented presentation.
- Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG): PWG is known for its high-flying action and unique characters, often featuring some of the best independent wrestlers in the world.
Where to Watch Independent Wrestling: (See Also: Is Carmella Coming Back To Wrestling )
- Streaming Services: Many independent promotions have their own streaming services or are available on platforms like FITE and IWTV.
- Pay-Per-View: Some independent events are available on pay-per-view.
- Social Media: Many promotions promote their events on social media, so follow your favorite promotions to stay updated.
Why You Should Explore the Indies
The independent scene offers a different perspective on wrestling. You’ll see a wide variety of styles, from high-flying acrobatics to hard-hitting brawls. It’s also a great way to discover new wrestlers and get a glimpse of the future stars of the industry. The atmosphere at independent shows is often more intimate and fan-friendly, making for a unique and memorable experience. You can also see a lot of experimentation with match types and storylines. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
International Wrestling: Beyond the Us
Wrestling isn’t just a US phenomenon. There are thriving wrestling scenes all over the world. These promotions offer a diverse range of styles, talent, and cultural influences. From Japan to Mexico to the UK, there’s a world of wrestling to explore. These promotions often have unique styles and traditions that differ from what you see in the US.
Key International Promotions
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) (Japan): As mentioned earlier, NJPW is a major player on the international scene, known for its strong style and incredible talent.
- Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) (Mexico): CMLL is the oldest wrestling promotion in the world, known for its traditional Lucha Libre style, which features high-flying moves and masked wrestlers.
- Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) (Mexico): AAA offers a more modern style of Lucha Libre, with a focus on spectacle and exciting matches.
- Progress Wrestling (UK): Progress is known for its creative storytelling, unique characters, and passionate fan base.
- Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) (UK): RevPro offers high-quality in-ring action and a strong roster of international talent.
Where to Watch International Wrestling:
- Streaming Services: Many international promotions have their own streaming services or are available on platforms like FITE and NJPW World.
- TV Channels: Some international promotions are broadcast on television in their respective countries.
- Social Media: Follow your favorite promotions on social media to stay updated on events and matches.
The Benefits of Watching International Wrestling
Watching international wrestling can broaden your horizons and introduce you to new styles and wrestlers. It’s a great way to appreciate the diversity of the wrestling world. You’ll see different cultural influences, innovative match types, and exciting rivalries. It can also open you up to new favorites. Plus, it’s just fun to see how wrestling is presented in different parts of the world. It will also give you a better understanding of the wider wrestling world. You may also get to see the next big stars of the industry before they make their way to WWE or AEW.
Tips for Staying Up-to-Date
With so much wrestling happening, it can be tough to keep track of everything. Here are some tips to help you stay in the loop: (See Also: Are Wrestling Briefs Like Speedos )
- Follow Wrestling News Sites and Social Media: Sites like Bleacher Report, Fightful, and PWInsider provide news, results, and analysis. Following wrestlers, promotions, and wrestling personalities on social media is a great way to stay informed.
- Subscribe to Wrestling Newsletters: Many wrestling news sites offer newsletters that summarize the week’s events and provide previews of upcoming shows.
- Join Wrestling Forums and Communities: Engaging with other wrestling fans is a great way to stay up-to-date and share your passion for the sport.
- Use a Wrestling Schedule App: There are apps that allow you to track upcoming events and set reminders.
- Set Up Alerts: Set up Google alerts or other notification systems for your favorite wrestlers and promotions.
Comparing the Major Promotions: Wwe, Aew, and Beyond
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which promotions are right for you:
| Promotion | Style | Key Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| WWE | Sports Entertainment, Story-Driven | Massive production value, global reach, established stars | Sometimes predictable storylines, can be overproduced |
| AEW | Wrestling-Focused, In-Ring Action | Great in-ring wrestling, diverse roster, creative freedom | Can be inconsistent with storylines, less mainstream appeal |
| NJPW | Strong Style, Technical Wrestling | High-quality wrestling, unique style, international talent | Language barrier for some viewers, less accessible in the US |
| Impact Wrestling | Story-Driven, Diverse Styles | Strong storytelling, diverse roster, affordable | Production value can be inconsistent, less mainstream exposure |
The Future of Wrestling
The wrestling world is constantly evolving. With new promotions emerging, new talent breaking through, and new styles developing, it’s an exciting time to be a fan. The rise of AEW has brought increased competition to the industry, which benefits fans. The increasing popularity of independent wrestling is also making the landscape more diverse. The future of wrestling looks bright, with a lot of potential for growth and innovation. Technology continues to play a role, with streaming services making it easier than ever to watch wrestling from around the world. The rise of social media also means that fans have more direct access to wrestlers and promotions. The future of wrestling depends on the continued passion of the fans, the creativity of the wrestlers, and the innovation of the promotions. The wrestling world will continue to evolve, and there will always be something new and exciting to watch.
Final Thoughts
So, is there going to be wrestling this year? Absolutely! From WWE’s spectacle to AEW’s in-ring action, and the diverse offerings of the independent and international scenes, there’s something for every wrestling fan. With a packed schedule of events, exciting storylines, and a wealth of talent, you won’t be short of wrestling to watch in 2024.
Explore different promotions, discover new wrestlers, and enjoy the thrill of the squared circle. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of wrestling, there’s never been a better time to be involved. Get ready for another year of slams, suplexes, and unforgettable moments. The wrestling world is waiting for you!
