WWE’s bold move to bring its Premium Live events to ESPN has sparked mixed reactions among fans, especially due to a significant price increase. However, Cody Rhodes expressed his enthusiasm about the impact this partnership will have on the company’s future.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Cody emphasized that this deal is more than a streaming agreement—it’s a long-awaited opportunity for greater exposure that wrestling legends and his own family have always dreamed of. He referenced iconic figures like Bill Watts, Jarrett, and Graham, highlighting how this collaboration represents everything their wrestling heritage aimed to achieve. Notably, the ESPN studio is integrated with the SportsCenter stage, symbolizing WWE’s elevated platform.
Cody also sees this deal as proof that WWE is far from declining and praised the upward direction under Nick Khan’s leadership. He said it confirms WWE’s continual growth and counters any speculation about the company faltering, stressing the importance of ratings, revenue, and executive vision in maintaining and expanding WWE’s entertainment dominance.
While fans debate the new $29.99 monthly price, Cody remains focused on the bigger picture—WWE now has access to a larger platform, increased exposure, and enhanced mainstream reach, all crucial for the industry’s future.
Fan Take: This partnership with ESPN could be a game-changer, elevating WWE from a niche entertainment form to a mainstream sports spectacle with broader visibility. For fans, it means more widespread recognition for the sport and potentially more significant investment in the production and talent of WWE.
