All of AEW’s broadcasting outlets, including HBO Max, TBS, and TNT, are owned by Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), whose sale puts the future of Jacksonville’s pro wrestling scene in flux. The sale features bids from Paramount, Comcast (which runs Peacock’s “Saturday Night Main Event”), and Netflix. On the latest “Wrestling Observer Radio,” Dave Meltzer shared his insights on the bidders’ interests regarding WBD.
Meltzer suggested a potential downturn soon and noted that Netflix and Paramount are leading contenders. He believes Netflix might focus on acquiring WBD’s film and show libraries and HBO Max streaming service, potentially offloading Turner Networks (like TBS and TNT) to others. Paramount, on the other hand, is seen as hopeful for WBD’s cable channels because they want to maintain those stations.
If Turner Networks are sold, they would likely continue operating under new ownership without disrupting the current broadcasting contracts. This update comes shortly after AEW signed a fresh media rights deal with WBD, apparently securing their place on Turner Networks for now. Although Paramount has ties with UFC through a broadcast deal, Meltzer doesn’t see it as a conflict for AEW.
Meltzer remarked about AEW shows, “If TBS and TNT remain, I doubt they’ll drop the most popular programs on those channels.”
Fan Take: This development is crucial for AEW fans because stability in broadcast partners directly impacts how accessible and widespread AEW programming will be. The involvement of familiar bidders like Paramount offers hope for continuity, which is vital for AEW’s growth and the pro wrestling landscape.
