AEW May Have Another Potential Buyer for Weekly Programming

AEW and Warner Brothers Discovery had quite a relationship, but it appears that things may change. Now, it appears that WBD may not be happy with their deal, although they have also taken over a key part of AEW’s operation.

The scenario with Warner Brothers Discovery and AEW carries significant consequences, especially for AEW, currently in talks with WBD for deals beyond television rights renewals, including possible streaming arrangements. WBD also gains a portion of AEW’s streaming PPV revenue through Bleacher Report.

Nick Hausman chimed in about the situation during his Rumor and Innuendo podcast. He noted that FX may be in the picture to pick up AEW programming. This is interesting, because FX was once said to be a front-running to secure WWE RAW’s next television deal.

“This is all rumor and innuendo, and I’ll get to everything, but it would seem like there will be some suitor of some kind for AEW. One network that was brought up to me, which is like ‘I can see this, I don’t know if there’s anything to it,’ is FX, who seem to want to market toward that younger, rebellious audience that AEW brings in. FOX is now getting out of the WWE business, so it may be a bit of ball and cup there.”

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There is speculation that WBD holds ownership stakes in AEW, an assertion Tony Khan neither affirmed nor refuted. He opted to discuss his complete control over voting and decision-making power. The recent WWE ownership, distinct from Vince McMahon’s approach, indicates a lesser inclination towards seeking brand exclusivity.

Tony Khan has declared his allegiance to WBD, committing to remain with them even if a different entity presents a slightly higher offer. Following the ROH acquisition, he exclusively approached WBD stations, showing loyalty despite CW’s prior interest in ROH.

Forecasting outcomes in negotiations proves difficult. SmackDown’s shift to the USA Network was foreseeable, but NXT’s move to CW appeared unforeseen. Levesque’s nonattendance on Raw for a meeting with another potential suitor hinted at substantial discussions. In the past, UFC’s transition from Spike to NBC caught many off guard, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of negotiations in the television industry.

What’s your take on where AEW Dynamite should go next? How do you feel about FX as a potential landing pad? Let us know what you think in the comments section!

Transcription by Ringside News