Multi-million dollar deal solidifies ESPN’s role as the premier destination for WWE fans, starting in 2026.
In a groundbreaking deal announced on August 6, 2025, ESPN has secured the exclusive U.S. streaming rights for World Wrestling Entertainment’s (WWE) premium live events. This five-year agreement, valued at $325 million annually, will begin in 2026, making ESPN the exclusive home for marquee WWE shows such as WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and SummerSlam.
The deal also includes broadcasting rights to WWE’s extensive archive of content, including legendary matches and in-depth documentaries. This shift marks a significant departure from WWE’s current pay-per-view model, as the events will now be exclusively available for streaming on ESPN’s platforms. This partnership is expected to transform the way wrestling fans engage with WWE’s content, moving away from traditional cable packages to a more accessible, digital-first model.
ESPN’s expanded focus on sports entertainment reflects a broader trend in the industry to capture younger audiences and expand its footprint beyond traditional sports programming. The move aligns with a larger strategy from Disney, ESPN’s parent company, to diversify its content offerings and enhance its appeal to fans of both sports and entertainment.
While WWE fans will have to adjust to the new platform, experts suggest that the convenience of streaming, along with exclusive content, will likely make the transition a positive one for viewers. ESPN’s streaming service has already experienced significant growth, with exclusive deals like this one expected to attract more subscribers and drive up interest in WWE’s live events.
The collaboration between ESPN and WWE represents a win for both parties: WWE secures a long-term, lucrative deal with a globally recognized brand, and ESPN strengthens its streaming catalog with one of the most watched entertainment franchises worldwide.