AEW and Warner Bros Discovery are currently in negotiations for a new television deal. Both companies have expressed confidence in continuing their partnership, which has seen significant collaboration and cross-promotion efforts. The outcome of these negotiations will play a crucial role in shaping AEWs future in the wrestling industry.
Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that both AEW and WBD are confident their partnership will continue. WBD has been involved in cross-promotional efforts, such as the House of the Dragon integration and the Reebok deal for the Young Bucks.
An offer from WBD to AEW has been on the table for months, but details are scarce. Talks have been ongoing since last year, including discussions about getting AEW PPVs on Max. AEW has opted to wait, and conversations have continued.
Predicting a specific number for the deal is difficult due to many factors. AEW and WBD reportedly hold weekly meetings on Mondays to discuss integrations, creative plans, and potential hurdles.
Different time slots and three-hour blocks have been tested to determine the best nights and times for AEW shows, which include Dynamite, Collision, and Rampage. WBD had interest in putting AEW pay-per-views on the Max service in 2023, but it is expected AEW will negotiate their properties together first. Many are under the idea that a streaming deal will be a part of AEWs next contract with WBD.
The outcome of NBA rights negotiations could significantly affect AEWs future. An AEW source compared it to an NFL quarterback setting the contract market, indicating flexibility for other programming if WBD loses NBA TV rights.
We will keep our eye on this story here at Ringside News for more updates. This is obviously a deal that could change a lot in the months to come. Hopefully, AEW will be able to retain some broadcasting power as they make the most of their next WBD deal.
Whats your take on AEW and WBD? Would you re-sign All Elite Wrestling if you were Warner Brothers Discovery? Let us know what you think in the comments section!
