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, rivalries, and jaw-dropping moments is part of what makes wrestling so exciting. With so many promotions vying for your attention, it can be tricky to keep track of everything.
This guide is designed to be your one-stop resource for all things wrestling in 2024. We’ll break down the major promotions, their schedules, and what you can expect to see. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, I’ll provide you with the information you need to stay in the loop and enjoy the thrill of wrestling. So, let’s get started and find out if wrestling is indeed happening this year… and how!
Major Wrestling Promotions in 2024
The world of professional wrestling is a vibrant ecosystem with several major players. Each promotion offers a unique style, roster, and approach to storytelling. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the variety and excitement the sport provides. Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest promotions currently operating.
World Wrestling Entertainment (wwe)
WWE remains the undisputed king of the wrestling world, with a global reach and a massive fanbase. Known for its high production values, larger-than-life characters, and family-friendly approach (though it’s evolved over time), WWE delivers weekly television shows, pay-per-view events, and a constant stream of content across various platforms. WWE’s influence extends far beyond the ring, encompassing merchandise, video games, and even movies.
Key WWE Shows:
- Monday Night Raw: Airs weekly on Monday nights. It’s a cornerstone of WWE programming, featuring a mix of established stars and rising talent.
- Friday Night SmackDown: Airs weekly on Friday nights. Known for its focus on athletic competition and compelling storylines.
- NXT: WWE’s developmental brand, NXT, offers a platform for up-and-coming wrestlers to hone their skills and gain exposure.
Major WWE Pay-Per-View Events:
- Royal Rumble: Kicks off the road to WrestleMania with the iconic Royal Rumble matches.
- WrestleMania: WWE’s biggest event of the year, WrestleMania is a spectacle that attracts millions of viewers worldwide.
- SummerSlam: A major summer event featuring high-profile matches.
- Survivor Series: Often features traditional elimination tag team matches and the return of the ‘WarGames’ match.
- Money in the Bank: Features the Money in the Bank ladder matches, with the winners earning a guaranteed title shot.
What to Expect in 2024:
WWE continues to evolve, with new talent constantly emerging and storylines developing. Expect to see the established stars like Roman Reigns (though his schedule has changed recently), Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, and Becky Lynch continue to dominate, while new faces will hopefully rise through the ranks. WWE’s creative team is always looking to surprise fans, so expect the unexpected twists, turns, and shocking moments that define the company.
All Elite Wrestling (aew)
AEW has quickly become a major force in the wrestling world, offering a refreshing alternative to WWE. Founded by Tony Khan, AEW emphasizes in-ring action, a more sports-oriented presentation, and a roster of talented wrestlers from around the globe. AEW has gained a loyal following due to its commitment to giving wrestlers creative freedom and showcasing a diverse range of styles.
Key AEW Shows:
- Dynamite: AEW’s flagship show, airing weekly on Wednesday nights. It features a mix of high-flying action, hard-hitting matches, and compelling storylines.
- Collision: Airs weekly on Saturday nights. It provides additional opportunities for matches and storyline development.
- Rampage: Airs weekly on Friday nights. A shorter show that often features fast-paced matches and showcases rising stars.
Major AEW Pay-Per-View Events:
- Revolution: AEW’s premier event.
- Double or Nothing: AEW’s event that takes place around Memorial Day.
- All Out: A major event that takes place over Labor Day weekend.
- Full Gear: A major event that takes place in November.
- WrestleDream: A collaboration with New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
What to Expect in 2024:
AEW is known for its unpredictable nature and willingness to take risks. Expect to see exciting matches, unexpected alliances, and the continued development of its impressive roster. AEW is committed to giving its wrestlers opportunities to shine and showcasing a variety of wrestling styles, making it a must-watch for fans who appreciate in-ring action and compelling storytelling.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (njpw)
New Japan Pro-Wrestling is a Japanese promotion with a global following, known for its strong style of wrestling, technical prowess, and innovative match structures. NJPW has a rich history and a reputation for producing some of the best wrestlers in the world. Their influence can be seen in wrestling promotions around the world.
Key NJPW Shows:
- Weekly Programming: NJPW has weekly shows that are broadcast in Japan and available on their streaming service, NJPW World.
Major NJPW Events:
- Wrestle Kingdom: NJPW’s biggest event of the year, held annually on January 4th at the Tokyo Dome.
- New Japan Cup: A single-elimination tournament that gives the winner a shot at the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship.
- G1 Climax: A grueling round-robin tournament featuring the best wrestlers in the world.
What to Expect in 2024:
NJPW continues to showcase its unique brand of wrestling, with a focus on strong-style matches, technical wrestling, and captivating storytelling. Fans can expect to see incredible matches, new rivalries, and the continued evolution of the promotion’s impressive roster. NJPW is a must-watch for fans who appreciate the art of professional wrestling. (See Also: How Is Wrestling Staged )
Impact Wrestling
Impact Wrestling is a promotion that has been around for many years, known for its high-flying action, innovative match concepts, and commitment to showcasing a diverse range of talent. Impact has a dedicated fanbase and continues to provide exciting wrestling content.
Key Impact Wrestling Shows:
- Impact!: Impact’s flagship show, airing weekly on Thursday nights.
Major Impact Wrestling Events:
- Hard To Kill: Impact’s first major event of the year.
- Rebellion: An annual event.
- Slammiversary: Impact’s biggest event of the year.
- Bound For Glory: Impact’s event held in October.
What to Expect in 2024:
Impact Wrestling is known for its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of talent and its willingness to take risks. Expect to see exciting matches, innovative match concepts, and the continued development of its impressive roster. Impact Wrestling is a great option for fans looking for something different from the mainstream promotions.
Ring of Honor (roh)
Ring of Honor is a promotion that has a rich history and a reputation for producing some of the best wrestlers in the world. ROH is now owned by Tony Khan and is integrated with AEW, showcasing talent on AEW shows and hosting its own events.
Key ROH Shows:
- ROH TV: ROH’s weekly show.
Major ROH Events:
- Supercard of Honor: ROH’s major event.
- Final Battle: ROH’s event at the end of the year.
What to Expect in 2024:
ROH continues to showcase its unique brand of wrestling, with a focus on in-ring action and compelling storytelling. Fans can expect to see incredible matches, new rivalries, and the continued evolution of the promotion’s impressive roster. ROH is a must-watch for fans who appreciate the art of professional wrestling.
How to Watch Wrestling in 2024
With so many promotions and platforms available, watching wrestling in 2024 is easier than ever. Here’s a breakdown of the different ways you can catch the action:
Television
Cable and Satellite: The traditional method of watching wrestling is still a reliable option. WWE’s Raw and SmackDown, AEW’s Dynamite and Collision, and Impact Wrestling all air on cable or satellite channels. Check your local listings for specific channels and times.
Streaming Services:
- Peacock (WWE): Peacock is the exclusive streaming home for WWE in the United States. You can watch all live pay-per-view events, as well as a vast library of past events and original content.
- FITE TV (AEW, Impact Wrestling, NJPW): FITE TV offers live streams and on-demand content from AEW, Impact Wrestling, NJPW, and other independent promotions.
- Bleacher Report (AEW): Bleacher Report allows fans to watch AEW events.
- Honor Club (ROH): Allows fans to watch ROH content.
Streaming Services
Streaming services have revolutionized how we consume content, and wrestling is no exception. They offer flexibility, on-demand viewing, and often, lower costs than traditional cable or satellite subscriptions.
WWE Network: While the WWE Network is no longer a standalone service, its content is now available on Peacock in the US. The WWE Network still exists in other countries and provides access to a huge library of wrestling content. You’ll find live events, past pay-per-views, original series, and documentaries. It’s a great value for any WWE fan.
AEW Plus: AEW offers a streaming service called AEW Plus, available through FITE TV. It provides access to AEW’s weekly shows, pay-per-view events, and exclusive content. It’s an excellent option for fans who want to follow AEW closely.
NJPW World: NJPW World is New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s official streaming service. It provides access to live events, matches, and a vast library of content from NJPW’s history. It’s a must-have for fans of strong-style wrestling. (See Also: Is Carmella Coming Back To Wrestling )
Impact Plus: Impact Wrestling offers Impact Plus, a streaming service that provides access to live events, matches, and a vast library of content from Impact Wrestling’s history. It’s a great option for fans who want to follow Impact Wrestling.
Pay-Per-View
Pay-per-view events remain a staple of the wrestling experience, offering the biggest matches and storylines of the year. While some promotions offer their pay-per-views on streaming services, others still utilize traditional pay-per-view channels. Check your local listings or the promotion’s website for information on how to order pay-per-views.
Social Media and YouTube
Social media and YouTube are essential resources for staying up-to-date on wrestling. You can find highlights, match clips, interviews, and news updates from various promotions and wrestling personalities. Follow your favorite wrestlers and promotions on social media to stay in the loop.
YouTube Channels:
- WWE: WWE’s official YouTube channel offers highlights from Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and pay-per-view events, as well as original content.
- AEW: AEW’s official YouTube channel features highlights from Dynamite, Collision, and Rampage, as well as interviews and behind-the-scenes content.
- NJPW: NJPW’s official YouTube channel features highlights from their events.
- Impact Wrestling: Impact Wrestling’s official YouTube channel features highlights from their events.
Key Events to Watch in 2024
2024 promises to be a year packed with exciting wrestling events. Here are some of the key events you should mark on your calendar:
Wwe
WrestleMania: WWE’s biggest event of the year, WrestleMania, is a must-see for any wrestling fan. Expect a weekend of spectacular matches, celebrity appearances, and unforgettable moments.
Royal Rumble: The Royal Rumble kicks off the road to WrestleMania, featuring the iconic Royal Rumble matches. The winners of the Royal Rumble matches earn a title shot at WrestleMania.
SummerSlam: SummerSlam is a major summer event featuring high-profile matches and often sets the tone for the second half of the year.
Survivor Series: Survivor Series often features traditional elimination tag team matches and the return of the ‘WarGames’ match. It’s a great event for fans of tag team wrestling.
Money in the Bank: Money in the Bank is known for its high-stakes ladder matches, with the winners earning a guaranteed title shot.
Aew
Revolution: AEW’s premier event, Revolution, features some of the best matches and storylines of the year.
Double or Nothing: Double or Nothing is AEW’s annual event that takes place around Memorial Day. Expect high-flying action and memorable moments.
All Out: All Out is a major event that takes place over Labor Day weekend. It often features some of the biggest matches and storylines of the year.
Full Gear: Full Gear is a major event that takes place in November. It’s a great event for fans of AEW.
WrestleDream: A collaboration with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, this event will feature some of the best wrestlers from both promotions.
Njpw
Wrestle Kingdom: NJPW’s biggest event of the year, Wrestle Kingdom, is held annually on January 4th at the Tokyo Dome. Expect a night of incredible matches and unforgettable moments.
New Japan Cup: The New Japan Cup is a single-elimination tournament that gives the winner a shot at the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. (See Also: Are Wrestling Briefs Like Speedos )
G1 Climax: The G1 Climax is a grueling round-robin tournament featuring the best wrestlers in the world. It’s a must-watch for fans of strong-style wrestling.
Impact Wrestling
Hard To Kill: Impact’s first major event of the year.
Rebellion: An annual event.
Slammiversary: Impact’s biggest event of the year.
Bound For Glory: Impact’s event held in October.
Roh
Supercard of Honor: ROH’s major event.
Final Battle: ROH’s event at the end of the year.
The Future of Wrestling in 2024 and Beyond
The wrestling landscape is constantly evolving, with new promotions, wrestlers, and storylines emerging all the time. Here are some trends and developments to watch out for:
The Rise of Independent Wrestling
Independent wrestling promotions are gaining popularity, providing a platform for up-and-coming wrestlers and showcasing a diverse range of styles. Keep an eye on promotions like GCW, Beyond Wrestling, and others to discover the next generation of wrestling stars.
The Continued Growth of Aew
AEW is expected to continue its growth, with new talent signings, expanded programming, and a focus on in-ring action. AEW is poised to become a major player in the wrestling world.
Wwe’s Continued Dominance
WWE will likely continue to dominate the wrestling world, with its global reach, high production values, and established fanbase. WWE will continue to evolve, with new talent and storylines.
The Impact of Social Media
Social media continues to play a major role in the wrestling world, with wrestlers and promotions using platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to connect with fans, promote events, and share content. Stay connected with your favorite wrestlers and promotions on social media to stay in the loop.
The Importance of Storytelling
Storytelling is essential to professional wrestling. Expect to see compelling storylines, unexpected twists, and shocking moments that keep you on the edge of your seat. Wrestling is a form of entertainment, and the best promotions know how to captivate their audience with compelling narratives.
Tips for Enjoying Wrestling in 2024
To get the most out of your wrestling experience in 2024, here are a few tips:
- Do your research: Familiarize yourself with the major promotions, wrestlers, and storylines.
- Follow your favorite wrestlers and promotions on social media: Stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments.
- Watch a variety of promotions: Don’t limit yourself to just one promotion. Explore different styles and talent.
- Attend live events: If possible, attend live wrestling events to experience the energy and excitement firsthand.
- Join a wrestling community: Connect with other fans online or in person to share your passion and learn from others.
- Be open-minded: Wrestling is subjective, so be open to different styles and opinions.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the exciting world of professional wrestling in 2024.
Conclusion
So, is wrestling happening this year? Absolutely! From the spectacle of WWE to the in-ring action of AEW, the strong style of NJPW, and the continuing evolution of Impact and ROH, there’s a wealth of wrestling content to enjoy. With new events, rising stars, and compelling storylines, 2024 promises to be another exciting year for fans of professional wrestling.
Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your popcorn, tune in, and get ready for a year of thrilling matches, unexpected twists, and unforgettable moments. The world of wrestling is waiting for you!
