ESPN Inks Streaming Deal With WWE Worth $1.6 Billion
Credit: WWE / Edited: STAY TRUE LUT
WWE ESPN Deal Goes Big
In a landmark agreement shaking up the sports entertainment landscape, ESPN has secured exclusive U.S. streaming rights to all WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) beginning in 2026. The five-year, $1.6 billion deal, averaging $325 million annually, makes ESPN’s platforms the new home for WWE’s biggest events, including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Royal Rumble, Survivor Series, and Money in the Bank.
The agreement means all 10 annual WWE PLEs will stream on ESPN’s new $29.99 per month direct-to-consumer streaming service, with select events simulcast on ESPN’s linear TV channels. The move marks a major jump from WWE’s previous Peacock deal, which averaged $180 million a year, proving the growing value and mainstream demand for WWE’s premium events.
With both companies praising the multigenerational appeal of WWE, this partnership is positioned to broaden the brand’s reach, attract new viewers, and bring marquee wrestling events into ESPN’s ever-expanding sports portfolio.
WWE to ESPN
The WWE–ESPN deal solidifies a partnership years in the making. WWE’s President Nick Khan called the agreement a “pivotal moment” for fans, while ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro emphasized the opportunity to engage WWE’s diverse and passionate audience. Thirty-eight percent of WWE’s fanbase is female, and nearly half of live event attendees come with children — demographics ESPN aims to super‑serve on its new streaming platform.
With Netflix already set to carry “RAW” outside the U.S., and “SmackDown” remaining on USA Network and Peacock until 2029, ESPN’s acquisition of WWE’s PLEs strengthens its position as the central hub for WWE action.
Full official updates available via WWE.com
