AEW ‘WrestleDream’ trademark hints at more potential US/Japan crossovers

The original WrestleDream saw American wrestlers working in Japan in 1991.

Another filed trademark could hint at AEW’s next big plan, not including the pending Saturday night show that could center on CM Punk’s return.

On April 19, AEW filed to trademark “AEW WrestleDream” with the US Patent and Trademark Office. The purpose hints at event and merchandise usage.

“Bandanas; Headwear; Pajamas; Pants; Pullovers; Shirts; Shorts; Socks; Sweatpants; Sweatshirts; Underwear; Athletic apparel, namely, shirts, pants, jackets, footwear, hats and caps, athletic uniforms; Clothing belts; Clothing for wear in wrestling games; Jogging suits; Leather belts for clothing; Outer jackets; Polo shirts; Sports shirts; T-shirts; Tank tops; Wrist bands as clothing.”

“Conducting entertainment exhibitions in the nature of wrestling events; Entertainment services in the nature of production of wrestling programs and events; Entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests.”

If it happens, this would revive an event of the same name that took place in 1991, which featured wrestlers from the WWF and Super World Sports. Marquee names like Hulk Hogan, Minoru Suzuki, Randy Savage and Bret Hart participated in the original show.

A modern-day version could mix AEW with NJPW stars. The two companies have worked together for the last few years with the Forbidden Door pay-per-view, which will return on June 25. If not NJPW, AEW could continue its budding relationship with Pro Wrestling Noah, as they connected for the Great Muta’s last match to include Sting and Darby Allin earlier this year.

AEW already has a packed schedule for the rest of 2023. Between Double or Nothing, Forbidden Door, All In, All Out, and an array of weekly shows, Tony Khan is keeping AEW busy. Another marquee event would lengthen AEW’s calendar and make for an intriguing cross-brand promotion — if that’s the plan for the filed trademark.

Rapid expansion continues for AEW. If it adds this event, it would be another major show to build on the momentum of the last four years.