Jeff Jarrett Questions WWE “First Right of Refusal” on TNA, Wonders What Anthem Gains

TNA founder Jeff Jarrett told listeners on his My World podcast he was stunned by reports WWE holds a “first right of refusal” to match any offer to buy TNA, a claim first detailed by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer. Meltzer compared the alleged clause to past WWE content and talent arrangements with European indies such as wXw, OTT and PROGRESS (a similar offer was reportedly declined by RevPro), and Jarrett said if it’s true “the writing is on the wall” — baffled that TNA leadership would essentially funnel talent and potential audience overlap to WWE.

Jarrett admitted he isn’t 100% sure the clause exists but pressed the bigger question of what Anthem gains by granting such a right, wondering why the company would let WWE step in and potentially absorb TNA talent or storylines into WWE/NXT. His remarks underscore rising concern among talent and fans about ownership clauses that could limit TNA’s independent future and bargaining power.

Originally reported by Wrestling Observer: https://www.f4wonline.com/news/tna-wrestling/jeff-jarrett-tna-wwe-first-right-refusal-sale-rumors/.