A recent deal designates ESPN as the official domestic broadcaster for all major WWE main roster premium live events, beginning with WWE Wrestlepalooza in September. However, the WWE NXT premium live events (PLEs) and extensive WWE content library—which includes past premium events, weekly TV shows, and classic ECW and WCW footage—will remain available on Peacock until March 2026 and December 2025, respectively. At the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference, TKO COO Mark Shapiro shared updates about the future of WWE’s NXT PLEs and content archives.
Shapiro explained that while WWE is still holding off on marketing NXT PLEs, aiming to approach the process thoughtfully and strategically, progress is being made. Regarding the WWE library, he revealed efforts are underway to secure a non-exclusive deal, with an announcement expected in the first quarter of next year.
ESPN is currently the leading candidate to acquire the WWE Archive in 2026, with reports indicating the rights will soon go up for bidding. Meanwhile, WWE’s “Saturday Night Main Event” and the “SmackDown” episode library will continue streaming exclusively on Peacock, with “SmackDown” airing live exclusively on USA Network for U.S. viewers.
The latest NXT premium live event, Deadline, took place on December 6 in San Antonio, Texas, featuring key moments like Oba Femi reclaiming the NXT Championship and Kendall Gray and Jevon Evans competing as the Women’s and Men’s Iron Survivors.
Fan Take: This update is significant for WWE fans as it signals continued access to beloved WWE content while hinting at exciting new platforms for NXT events and the extensive WWE archive. The potential shift to ESPN for archived content could enhance visibility and attract new audiences, helping to grow the sport’s fanbase and preserve its rich history.
