A fan asked Dave Meltzer the following question on X: “Is there any thing in which AEW is bigger or at least on par with WWE? I don’t mean better, just bigger…”
Meltzer replied:
“Pays a higher percentage of its gross income to talent. Its audience has a higher average household income (as of one year ago, haven’t seen updated stats). Its viewer base spends more money on streaming subs (AEW audience was the highest of all sports organizations in that category in 2024).
The last two could have changed in the past year. The first is accurate. But most categories WWE would be ahead in business wise.”
Metlzer’s comments circulated on multiple social media platforms. Below are some replies from fans:
“Source: Trust me bro.”
“Finally someone acknowledging that AEW actually takes care of their talent better. Paying a higher percentage to wrestlers says a lot.”
“If their fans make more money, and the tickets are cheaper… why aren’t they selling out buildings and growing their ppv audience?”
“Higher percentage of revenue to talent doesn’t mean much when the total revenue is a fraction of WWE’s.”
“Makes sense. AEW’s fanbase feels more niche and dedicated. The people watching are diehards who actually spend money.”
“So you give 3 examples, but then end it by saying 2 of them could be wrong lol. Can’t even fact check yourself now lol”
“Meltzer always twisting numbers to make AEW look good. Where’s the proof? WWE’s running stadiums every month. AEW can’t even sell out a 10k arena most of the times nowadays.”
“AEW was not on streaming prior to 2025, so is this including international & PPVs? Also, this was a claim Khan made, not a verified metric.”
“AEW clearly isn’t bigger or more popular than WWE, but it’s nice to see they’re doing some things differently.”
“I believe this 100%. AEW fans are way more invested in the product. The crowds are smaller, but the energy and loyalty are unmatched.”
“Say what you want but at least AEW treats its wrestlers like human beings and not disposable assets like the other promotion…”
“Doesn’t matter how rich your viewers are if they’re not watching lmao”
“This feels like another case of Meltzer trying too hard to balance the scales. WWE is ahead in literally every measurable business metric.”
“If AEW really pays a higher percentage to talent, good for them. But they still need more mainstream growth before it matters.”
