In recent weeks, much speculation has surrounded the outcome of Warner Bros. Discovery’s acquisition, with the leading contenders being Paramount, supported by the Trump administration, and Netflix, the streaming powerhouse currently hosting WWE. Although Paramount was favored, an unexpected announcement revealed that Netflix secured the deal for $82.7 billion. Paramount opposes the acquisition, but if finalized, Netflix could not only continue hosting WWE programming but also add AEW content through its Warner Bros. Discovery ownership. This raises questions about potential conflicts between competing wrestling promotions and their impact on Tony Khan’s AEW.
Starting in January 2024, Netflix gained exclusive rights to broadcast WWE Monday Night Raw worldwide, becoming the primary platform for WWE content outside the US and effectively ending the WWE Network. In the US, WWE’s SmackDown airs on USA Network, NXT on CW, and pay-per-views remain available on Peacock, transitioning to ESPN under a new deal. Despite the shift, WWE’s ratings have struggled, likely due to creative issues rather than platform changes.
Meanwhile, AEW secured a lucrative three-year, $185 million annual deal with Warner Bros. Discovery to keep its shows on TBS and TNT, with weekly programs simulcasting on HBO Max. AEW pay-per-views also began streaming on HBO Max at reduced prices, expanding its audience. However, Netflix’s acquisition raises concerns about how it might affect AEW’s growth and broadcast arrangements.
Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery jointly announced their acquisition terms, assuring fans that Warner Bros. films will continue to hit theaters and that current film and TV operations will remain intact. This has reassured moviegoers and sparked hope among AEW fans worried that Netflix might deprioritize the wrestling promotion due to WWE’s involvement.
Despite fears that Netflix might harm AEW, experts, including Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp and PWInsider’s Mike Johnson, believe AEW’s current arrangements are secure. Netflix plans to acquire HBO Max, which airs AEW content, and is expected to maintain existing broadcast contracts at least through their current terms. For now, AEW shows remain safe on TBS, TNT, and HBO Max, and alternative pay-per-view options exist if Netflix alters its strategy.
Fan Take: This acquisition is a game-changer for WWE fans as it solidifies Netflix as a major player in professional wrestling broadcasting, potentially increasing WWE’s global reach. For the sport, it means heightened competition and new opportunities for cross-promotion and innovation, but it also raises important questions about the future dynamics between WWE and AEW under one streaming giant.
