WWE has entered into a $1.625 billion deal with ESPN to transfer all premium live events to ESPN’s upcoming consumer streaming service starting in 2026, raising questions about ESPN’s access to WWE’s extensive archives. On Ringer’s Pressbox podcast, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro expressed ESPN’s interest in bidding for archive rights when available, noting that ESPN already holds rights to archive events included in the new deal but aims to gain full access to WWE’s entire library.
Pitaro described the partnership as a strategic effort to fill gaps in ESPN’s sports schedule and reduce subscriber cancellations, highlighting WWE’s willingness to be flexible with event scheduling to suit ESPN’s programming demands. He emphasized their goal to minimize subscriber churn as a key focus.
This new agreement ends WWE’s partnership with Peacock, which has been streaming premium live events since 2021. From 2026 onward, these events will be exclusively streamed on ESPN’s platform. WWE anticipates this change will expand its audience and enhance viewers’ experiences by leveraging ESPN’s technology and coverage.
If ESPN secures the entire WWE library, fans may gain access to iconic matches, storylines, and historic moments all in one place, transforming how WWE’s history is enjoyed and preserved for future generations. It remains to be seen whether ESPN will obtain full library rights or if WWE will retain some control for future business opportunities.
Fan Take: This deal is a game-changer for WWE fans, as it could centralize decades of wrestling history and premium content in one accessible platform, elevating the viewing experience. It also signals WWE’s commitment to growth and innovation by partnering with a major sports network, potentially broadening its reach and influence in the sports entertainment world.
