Backstage Update: WWE Files ‘Invasion’ Trademark – TNA vs. NXT Event Expected
Could WWE and TNA be building toward a full-scale crossover event?
WWE Files ‘Invasion’ Trademark
On the heels of this week’s TNA invasion of WWE NXT, WWE has filed a new trademark for the term “Invasion” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Longtime fans will recognize the term from WWE’s infamous 2001 Invasion storyline, which pitted WWE against the WCW/ECW Alliance.
The USPTO filing covers a wide range of uses, including live wrestling events, broadcast media, fan clubs, online newsletters, and digital content. While broad in scope, the timing makes it clear that WWE intends to use “Invasion” as the centerpiece branding for the ongoing NXT/TNA storyline.
Special Event in the Works?
The trademark has fueled speculation that WWE may stage a dedicated NXT vs. TNA special event or premium live event, rather than keeping the crossover to sporadic appearances. With tensions between the two rosters escalating on NXT, a full-scale “Invasion” show would mark the biggest collaborative effort between WWE and another promotion since ECW’s one-night stand revival.
WWE/TNA Partnership & Acquisition Rumors
WWE and TNA announced a multi-year partnership in January 2025, which has included talent exchanges and cross-promoted matches. NXT stars have appeared on TNA programming, while TNA wrestlers have shown up in NXT, even holding championship gold.
The “Invasion” storyline is an extension of that deal, designed to inject unpredictability into NXT and boost TNA’s exposure. However, the trademark has also sparked rumors of a potential WWE purchase of TNA.
Here’s what we know so far:
- Right of First Refusal: Reports confirmed that WWE’s agreement with TNA includes a clause giving them the chance to match any purchase offer made by another party.
- Strategic Positioning: Dave Meltzer has reported that WWE views the partnership as a way to weaken AEW by strengthening TNA as a clear number-two promotion in the U.S.
- No Sale Yet: Despite speculation, no sale has taken place. Sources indicate that the “Invasion” trademark is tied to storyline purposes, not an imminent acquisition.
- Outside Interest: Rumors persist that former UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta is eyeing TNA, but WWE’s contractual rights would allow them to intervene before any sale closed.
Read More: Recent WWE NXT Ratings Revealed
🗣️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
The “Invasion” trademark is more than nostalgia — it’s a clear sign that WWE wants to make this crossover feel like a major chapter in NXT’s history. For fans, it’s a chance to see dream matches and unpredictable moments across two rosters that don’t normally share the stage. For TNA, however, the stakes are much higher. While the exposure is massive, the risk is equally real: if the storyline tilts too heavily toward WWE, TNA could find itself overshadowed rather than elevated. The next few weeks will reveal whether this partnership is truly symbiotic or simply WWE using history to repeat itself on new terms.
