On May 13, 2025, COO Mark Shapiro, president of TKO Group Holdings, discussed WWE’s media strategy at the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media and Communications Conference, providing insights into the company’s evolving direction.
Short and sweet Ple
Shapiro confirmed WWE’s intention to maintain a shorter, more impactful premium live event (PLE). This strategy reflects WWE’s response to changes in audience habits, prioritizing engagement over the length of the event. This strategy has already been implemented, as we saw with WWE running two night editions of WrestleMania and Soman Summerslam instead of one night marathon show. WWE events recorded within three hours have been generally well received.
WWE: Unreal
He also worked on upcoming Netflix Docuseries. WWE: Unrealbeware of concerns about the potential risks of overexposing behind-the-scenes operations. Shapiro said he warned WWE about revealing too much, highlighting the brand’s mystique and the importance of maintaining entertainment value.
These statements were part of Shapiro’s wider participation in the well-known conference, and together with the UFC and PBR, outlined WWE’s positioning within the TKO portfolio. WWE continues to expand its media footprint through key partnerships, including upcoming moves with Netflix and ongoing streaming negotiations with Peacock.
Shapiro’s comments highlight WWE’s focus on balancing fan engagement and brand protection as they navigate an increasingly competitive media environment.
