For years, rumors have swirled about WWE potentially acquiring TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, now known as IMPACT Wrestling). Fans of both promotions have speculated about possible mergers, talent exchanges, and even a complete takeover. But did WWE actually buy TNA?
The short answer is no, WWE has not purchased TNA/IMPACT Wrestling—at least not as of the latest confirmed reports. However, the wrestling industry is always evolving, and business relationships between companies can change.
In this article, we’ll explore Did WWE Buy TNA?: The history of TNA/IMPACT Wrestling Past collaborations between WWE and TNA Why acquisition rumors persist What the future could hold for both companies.
Table of Contents
A Brief History of TNA/IMPACT Wrestling
TNA was founded in 2002 by Jeff and Jerry Jarrett as an alternative to WWE. It gained popularity for its high-flying X-Division, the six-sided ring, and major signings like Kurt Angle, Sting, and AJ Styles.
Over the years, TNA faced financial struggles, ownership changes, and rebranding efforts. In 2017, the company officially became IMPACT Wrestling under Anthem Sports & Entertainment. Despite ups and downs, IMPACT has remained a key player in the wrestling world, known for its partnerships with other promotions like NJPW, AAA, and AEW.
Have WWE and TNA Ever Worked Together?
While WWE has never outright purchased TNA, there have been indirect connections between the two companies:
1. WWE Signing Former TNA Stars
Many top TNA wrestlers eventually joined WWE, including:
- AJ Styles (TNA’s face for over a decade before becoming a WWE champion)
- Samoa Joe (TNA’s longest-reigning X-Division Champion)
- Bobby Lashley (Returned to WWE after a dominant TNA run)
- Eric Young, Austin Aries, and The Revival (FTR) also transitioned from TNA to WWE.
2. WWE Acknowledging TNA on TV
In rare cases, WWE has referenced TNA, such as when Christian Cage mentioned his “five-time world championship reigns” (including his TNA title wins). However, WWE typically avoids promoting rival brands.
3. WWE’s Purchase of WCW vs. TNA Rumors
Some fans compare TNA to WCW, which WWE bought in 2001. However, TNA never reached WCW’s level of mainstream competition, making a full acquisition less likely.
Why Do WWE Buying TNA Rumors Keep Surfacing?
Several factors fuel ongoing speculation:
1. WWE’s History of Acquiring Libraries
WWE owns the rights to WCW, ECW, and other defunct promotions’ video libraries. Some believe WWE might want TNA’s archive for its Peacock/WWE Network streaming service.
2. Talent Crossovers
With former TNA stars succeeding in WWE (and vice versa), fans wonder if a business relationship could develop.
3. IMPACT’s Financial Past
TNA’s previous financial troubles led to rumors of a fire sale, but under Anthem Sports, IMPACT has stabilized.
Could WWE Buy IMPACT Wrestling in the Future?
While nothing is confirmed, here are possible scenarios:
1. WWE Purchasing IMPACT’s Video Library
WWE might bid for IMPACT’s past footage (similar to ECW) but keep the company operating separately.
2. A Talent-Sharing Agreement
Unlike AEW (which competes directly), IMPACT has partnered with other promotions. A limited WWE-IMPACT deal isn’t impossible.
3. No Deal at All
IMPACT’s current management seems committed to independence. Unless financial struggles return, a sale is unlikely.
FAQs About WWE Buying TNA
1. Did WWE ever own TNA?
No, WWE has never owned TNA/IMPACT Wrestling.
2. Has Triple H or Vince McMahon commented on buying TNA?
No major WWE executive has publicly discussed acquiring IMPACT.
3. Did TNA almost go out of business?
Yes, TNA faced near-bankruptcy multiple times before Anthem’s 2017 takeover.
4. Would WWE benefit from buying IMPACT?
Only for its video library—WWE doesn’t need IMPACT’s roster (many ex-TNA stars already work there).
5. Are any TNA originals in WWE now?
Yes, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and Bobby Lashley all had legendary TNA runs before joining WWE.
6. Could AEW buy IMPACT instead?
AEW has partnered with IMPACT before, but a full purchase seems unlikely.
Final Verdict: WWE Hasn’t Bought TNA (And Probably Won’t)
Despite frequent rumors, WWE has not purchased TNA/IMPACT Wrestling. While collaborations and talent exchanges happen, IMPACT remains under Anthem Sports with no signs of selling.
That said, in wrestling, never say never—if business dynamics shift, anything could happen. For now, IMPACT continues as a viable alternative, and WWE remains focused on its own empire.
Do you think WWE should buy IMPACT? Share your thoughts in the comments!
