When NXT and AEW Dynamite went head-to-head during what became known as the Wednesday Night Wars, the WWE developmental brand lost. Nearly each and every week, the rival company came out on top in terms of overall viewers and the key 18-49 demographic.
Next Tuesday, NXT and AEW will once again go head-to-head as part of what AEW President Tony Khan - to celebrate his birthday - is calling "Title Tuesday." Right now, though, the only match advertised for the show is Adam Copeland/Edge vs. Luchasauras in the WWE Hall of Famer's in-ring debut for the company.
The difference between this and the Wednesday Night Wars is the fact AEW's ratings have dipped, whereas interest in NXT has increased. Much of that is due to the regular presence of main roster talent and while this clash is likely a one-off, it's one WWE clearly has no intention of losing.
As you can see below, WWE has confirmed that John Cena, Cody Rhodes, Paul Heyman, and Asuka will all be making an appearance on the show.
Cena will be in the corner of former NXT Champion Carmelo Hayes when he faces Bron Breakker and, somehow, that up-and-comer has managed to get Heyman in his corner, though only after the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, agreed to loan his Wiseman out for the night.
Rhodes, meanwhile, is set to make a major announcement and Asuka will face Roxanne Perez for the first time ever. What will Rhodes announce? Your guess is as good as ours, though we wouldn't be surprised if it has something to do with the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
Does it ultimately matter who wins this mini ratings "war"? Not really, but you'd best believe both companies will be hoping to beat the other!
Which show do you think will come out on top next Tuesday?