WWE’s historic partnership with AAA delivered plenty of surprises at Worlds Collide, but wrestling fans almost witnessed an even more shocking return. The company came close to bringing back legendary play-by-play announcer Mike Tenay for the groundbreaking event at the Kia Forum.
Money Talks: Why Mike Tenay Didn’t Return
The Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer revealed that WWE actually reached out to the former WCW and TNA voice about joining the broadcast team. However, negotiations broke down over financial terms, preventing what could have been a nostalgic homecoming for the veteran commentator.
This detail adds another layer to the already significant Worlds Collide event, which marked WWE’s first official collaboration with AAA following the acquisition announcement. The show generated massive buzz and record-breaking YouTube viewership numbers for the company.
A Perfect Circle: Tenay’s Historic Connection
The potential reunion would have been poetry in motion for wrestling history buffs. Tenay’s professional wrestling commentary career actually launched at the original WCW & AAA When Worlds Collide event back in November 1994. Having him return for WWE’s modern take on the concept would have created a beautiful full-circle moment.
During his WCW tenure, Tenay earned the nickname “The Professor” for his encyclopedia-like knowledge of wrestling, particularly when it came to cruiserweight and international talent. His expertise made him the perfect voice for cross-promotional events featuring diverse wrestling styles.
From Atlanta to Orlando: A Broadcasting Journey
Tenay’s broadcasting journey spans three decades and multiple wrestling promotions. He spent seven years calling the action for WCW until WWE’s purchase of the company in 2001 effectively ended that chapter of his career.
The commentator then found a new home in TNA Wrestling, where he became the voice of the promotion for an impressive 14-year run. His contributions to TNA were so significant that the company inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 2023, alongside his longtime broadcast partner Don West.
Star Power Delivered at Worlds Collide
While Tenay’s voice was absent from the broadcast booth, WWE still delivered plenty of star power for the historic event. Rey Mysterio made a surprise appearance that sent the Inglewood crowd into a frenzy, proving that his connection to Mexican wrestling culture remains as strong as ever.
Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan also showed up unexpectedly, adding WWE star power to an already stacked card. These appearances helped bridge the gap between WWE’s current roster and AAA’s talented performers, creating dream matches that fans had only imagined.
Record-Breaking Success
The event proved to be a massive win for WWE’s digital strategy. The company celebrated record-breaking viewership numbers on YouTube, suggesting that fans are hungry for this type of cross-promotional content.
This success likely sets the stage for more collaborative efforts between WWE and AAA as the acquisition moves forward. The positive fan reception and impressive metrics provide a strong foundation for future international partnerships.
Could we see Mike Tenay return for future WWE events if the price is right, or has that ship sailed permanently? The wrestling world continues to evolve, but sometimes the best voices from the past deserve another chance to call the action.
