The TNT Championship might need a makeover in 2022 as All Elite Wrestling plans a massive shift. In a story that shocked many, AEW will move from its current home at TNT to TBS in the next year.
For those who love the phrase “it’s Wednesday. You know what that means,” fear not as General Manager of TBS, TNT, and truTV Brett Weitz confirmed it would remain on its current day. This move from networks should help out TBS, which is lacking a hit series besides American Dad. It will also allow AEW to avoid any inference with TNT’s deal with the NHL and the NBA.
Leading up to this transition, AEW will debut four new pro wrestling specials annually as part of the new deal. Wrestling reporter Dave Meltzer compares these events to “a remake of Clash of Champions concept” from decades ago. Meltzer also notes that this deal sees “increased TV compensation” for the brand.
“As a lifelong wrestling aficionado who is privileged to present AEW to longtime and new fans alike, it means a lot to me – personally and professionally – to share the news that All Elite Wrestling will call TBS home beginning in 2022,” said Khan, CEO, GM and Head of Creative of AEW. “The history of wrestling in the United States cannot be told without acknowledging the contributions of TBS, which as WTBS years ago delivered wrestling to the Southeast and eventually to a massive national audience. TBS has the same passion for wrestling today but will offer AEW and our fans more prime time programming, content, and global opportunities that will establish TBS as the world’s undisputed destination for wrestling.”
In another positive announcement for AEW, the budding wrestling promotion will also see another series coming to television. In addition to Dynamite and the two YouTube series Dark and Elevation, All Elite Wrestling promises a new series called AEW: Rampage.
Little is known about Rampage at the time of reporting, but it will debut on August 13 at 10 p.m. ET. The series will also relocate to TBS in 2022.
“It’s a pleasure to be able to help Tony Khan expand his wrestling fiefdom across our networks and bring more content to our fans that fits the thrill ride brand of TNT and a good time of TBS,” said Sam Linsky, Associate General Manager, SVP, Programming and Operations, TBS, TNT, and truTV. “It’s Wednesday. You know what that means.”
