In a landmark shift, WWE has inked a deal with ESPN, making its platforms the exclusive U.S. home for all WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) starting in 2026. This includes the marquee two-night WrestleMania, often called WWE’s Super Bowl, alongside fan-favorite events like SummerSlam, Royal Rumble, and Money in the Bank.
The announcement follows the massive success of SummerSlam 2025, which drew 122,000 fans over two nights in the NY/NJ Meadowlands. Contrary to fan expectations of a move to Netflix, this partnership with ESPN marks a bold new chapter for WWE’s media strategy. The deal positions ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming service as the go-to platform for WWE’s biggest events. The five-year deal will begin in 2026 and include a $325 million per year contract for the broadcast rights.
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro noted that the agreement “bolsters our unprecedented content portfolio and helps drive our streaming future.” For WWE, aligning with the leading sports media brand is a game-changer. WWE President Nick Khan called it “a pivotal moment for our millions of fans,” while TKO’s Mark Shapiro, drawing parallels to the UFC-ESPN partnership, predicted an “exceptional” collaboration. More details are expected during The Walt Disney Company’s Investors Call at 8:30 AM on August 6, 2025.
Where exactly on ESPN can we stream WWE PLEs
Starting in 2026, all WWE PLEs will stream exclusively on ESPN’s new DTC service. The price range is $29.99/month and $299.99 per year. This shift from Peacock means higher costs for fans but offers access to a robust sports package, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN, ACCN, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX.
Covering 47,000 live events annually, the unlimited plan also includes on-demand replays, studio shows, and original programming. A launch bundle with Disney+ and Hulu at $29.99/month for the first year adds value. Some PLEs will simulcast on ESPN’s linear channels, with pre- and post-event shows enhancing the experience. This move strengthens ESPN’s streaming ambitions by leveraging WWE’s global fan base.
For WWE, the partnership elevates its reach through ESPN’s unmatched sports media platform, mirroring the successful UFC model. Fans are left wondering about broader implications, such as whether WWE storylines could feature Disney characters now. With the likes of Mickey Mouse or if WWE will appear at Disney’s Wide World of Sports.