WWE’s acquisition of a 51% controlling stake in Mexico’s Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide has ignited industry speculation about potential moves into the Japanese market. The deal, announced during WrestleMania 41 weekend through a partnership with Mexican entertainment firm Fillip, represents WWE’s first majority ownership of another major promotion since becoming part of TKO Group Holdings
PWInsider Addresses Japanese Acquisition Rumors
When asked about the Stamford-based promotion potentially purchasing a 51% stake in All Japan or Pro Wrestling Noah, PWInsider reported no immediate plans but left the door open for future moves.
“I don’t know of any plan to do that,” the outlet stated. “But with that said, if TKO thinks a deal is worth pursuing, they will probably look into it. They also may want to wait and see how the AAA deal works out before moving on to another promotion.”
This cautious approach suggests WWE’s parent company, TKO, is prioritizing the success of its AAA investment before considering further international expansions. It also reflects WWE’s cautious approach towards several market realities.
Pro Wrestling Noah’s existing partnership with CyberAgent (parent company of DDT) and All Japan’s complex ownership history under Tsuyoki Fukuda present immediate hurdles. New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s dominant position, backed by TV Asahi, further complicates any potential market entry.
WWE x AAA Worlds Collide was a historic event for the ages! 🇲🇽
WWE’s most-watched live @YouTube broadcast EVER. 💪 pic.twitter.com/aXamP8HxaL
— WWE (@WWE) June 10, 2025
Breaking Down WWE’s AAA Takeover
WWE’s acquisition of AAA marked a major shift in global wrestling. The deal gives the Stamford-based promotion a controlling 51% stake, with Fillip retaining the remaining 49%. The partnership’s first event, “Worlds Collide,” took place on June 7, 2025, in Inglewood, California, blending WWE talent with AAA’s Luchadores.
This move aligns with WWE’s strategy to dominate international markets, similar to its previous NXT expansions in the UK and Japan. However, unlike those efforts, the AAA deal represents direct ownership rather than just a developmental territory.
While WWE’s AAA takeover has fans speculating about Japan, PWInsider’s report indicates no immediate plans. TKO appears focused on ensuring AAA’s success before pursuing another major acquisition. For now, Japanese promotions remain independent, but WWE’s growing global influence means nothing is off the table long-term.
TKO will also have to consider cultural differences in wrestling presentation styles, existing television contracts with Japanese networks, and potential fan backlash against foreign ownership before jumping in on the acquisition process.
The coming year will prove critical as the Stamford-based promotion analyzes key performance indicators from the AAA collaboration, including live event attendance, merchandise sales, and Spanish-language viewership metrics. Should these meet expectations, industry watchers believe Japan could indeed become WWE’s next target.