WWE Legend Hails AAA as Pro Wrestling’s Most Electrifying Program
WWE legend John Bradshaw Layfield hails – In the lead-up to WrestleMania 41 in 2025, WWE made a notable move by acquiring Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA). This strategic partnership has sparked significant buzz within the wrestling community, with many observers noting the Mexican promotion’s rapid ascent as one of the most overlooked developments in the industry over the past 15 months. AAA’s ability to blend high-octane action with compelling storytelling has positioned it as a standout force, even as the broader wrestling landscape grapples with evolving dynamics.
Worlds Collide: A Gateway to Global Recognition
The company’s recent event, Worlds Collide in June 2025, served as a pivotal moment for AAA’s international exposure. This gathering not only showcased the promotion’s growing influence but also provided a platform to reintroduce Lucha Libre to American audiences. The event’s success was underscored by its high-energy atmosphere and the seamless integration of AAA’s unique style into the WWE framework. TripleMania, AAA’s flagship event, is now set to expand into a two-night affair for the first time in its history, further amplifying its reach and impact.
As the new season of AAA unfolds, the anticipation surrounding its programming is palpable. WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield, a veteran of the industry, recently shared his thoughts on the promotion’s current trajectory. In a conversation with Fox News Digital, he emphasized the transformative power of the acquisition, highlighting how AAA has become a focal point for innovation and excitement in the wrestling world.
“I think it’s the hottest program in the world right now. It’s unbelievable. They got incredible characters,” Layfield remarked. His praise for AAA’s creative direction and the dynamism of its roster has only grown since the acquisition, with the promotion’s ability to craft memorable narratives standing out as a key strength.
Layfield’s admiration for AAA is rooted in his early experiences in Mexico, where he witnessed the raw passion and energy of Lucha Libre firsthand. “I’d go down there and work, and people would think since then if Lucha Libre ever takes off,” he explained. “I’ve always said it’s a sleeping giant, and what people are now starting to see is exactly what we’ve known all along. There’s incredible characters, incredible passion, especially with the Mexican fans. I’ve always enjoyed working down there.”
He drew a parallel between AAA’s recent success and the cultural phenomenon of Lucha Libre itself, comparing the promotion’s revival to a sleeping giant awakening. “Anywhere in Mexico is like that,” Layfield added, referring to the iconic venues where he once performed. “You gotta work in a few arenas to make it in life. The Sportatorium, the Staples Center, The Garden, Budokan, Earls Court—each has its own vibe, but the energy in Mexico is something else entirely.”
Among the standout moments of AAA’s resurgence, the Mask vs. Mask match between El Grande Americano and Original El Grande Americano has captivated fans. This high-stakes encounter, which took place in the buildup to Worlds Collide, saw El Grande Americano triumph over Original El Grande Americano, who later revealed himself to be Chad Gable. The match was a masterclass in drama and technical prowess, delivering everything a wrestling enthusiast could desire: unforgettable characters, a gripping narrative, and a performance that ranked among the best of the year.
“The passion that the people have down there—it’s just incredible. And I just think that AAA has done an incredible job,” Layfield told Fox News Digital. He credited the creative team, particularly Jeremy Borash, for revitalizing the promotion’s storytelling and character development. “Jeremy Borash is incredibly talented, and Undertaker, who is a good friend of mine, is also a very smart guy. Together, they’ve transformed the product into something truly special.”
Layfield’s remarks were not limited to AAA’s recent efforts. He reflected on two matches from his career that he believes epitomized the artistry of pro wrestling: Fit Finlay vs. Tony St. Clair in Europe and Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25. Both encounters were lauded for their emotional depth and technical brilliance, and Layfield sees the Mask vs. Mask match as a similar achievement. “I felt the same way with Mask vs. Mask. I never thought I’d see another match like that,” he said. “I was hoping I would, but I don’t know if I’d ever see a match that combined the same level of passion and creativity as Finlay and St. Clair or Undertaker and Michaels.”
Now, El Grande Americano faces a new challenge: the reformation of Los Perros del Mal. This legendary faction, which has been reimagined with fresh members like Daga, Angel, Berto, Bronco Nima, and Karmen Petrovic, is creating waves of intrigue across the AAA roster. Layfield described the group’s return as a bold move that mirrors the unpredictability of episodic storytelling. “It just kills me with Los Perros del Mal,” he said. “It’s kinda like in episodic television, like in ‘The Walking Dead,’ when the governor dies and you’re left wondering, ‘What are you gonna do now?’”
Comparing the group’s dynamic to a TV series, Layfield highlighted the narrative potential of their revival. “The first day of the next season and you go, ‘Oh great! This is awesome.’” He noted that the group’s reformation has already generated excitement, with their chaotic antics and strategic alliances setting the stage for a compelling storyline. “I’m watching ‘Blacklist’ and as soon as they get rid of one villain, another one comes in. That’s the same energy Los Perros del Mal brings to the ring.”
Layfield’s enthusiasm for AAA’s direction has only deepened since the acquisition, with the promotion’s ability to blend tradition and innovation standing out. “As soon as we got done with Mask vs. Mask, Jeremy Borash starts bringing back Los Perros del Mal—this incredible group,” he said. “The visual of them there, I just thought, my God, man, this is awesome. Now we got something for, I don’t know how long, the next year or whatever long it is. But this is an incredible new journey it’s gonna look like for El Grande Americano.”
With the WWE’s backing, AAA has positioned itself as a major player in the global wrestling scene. The combination of world-class talent, strategic programming, and a deep connection to its cultural roots has created a unique and vibrant product. As TripleMania approaches, the future of AAA looks brighter than ever, with fans eagerly awaiting what the next chapter will bring. The promotion’s resurgence serves as a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration in the world of professional wrestling.
From the adrenaline-fueled matches to the intricate storylines, AAA’s journey under WWE’s umbrella has been nothing short of remarkable. Layfield’s insights underscore the growing influence of Mexican wrestling, as it continues to break boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether through the revival of classic factions or the introduction of fresh talent, AAA is proving that the spirit of Lucha Libre remains as fierce as ever.
