Warner Brothers Discovery Takes Over Key Element of AEW’s Internal Operations

AEW’s social media activity has been the object of ridicule in the past, with many fans taking shots at the company for one reason or another. It appears that AEW’s public relations department is now under a much larger umbrella.

During the Rumor and Innuendo podcast, Nick Hausman had lot to say about AEW. He alluded to the idea that Warner Bros Discovery’s new leadership doesn’t like AEW’s current ad-share deal. It was also stated that the company’s PR team is now under WBD’s control.

“I’ve been told that AEW’s PR team has been moved under the Warner Sports umbrella. Now the people who are dealing with the PR wing with the NBA and others are working closely with AEW.“

“I was told that was an indicator that AEW is tightening their relationship with Warner. It seemed the first quarter of 2024 is that quarter to get your content over to Max for streaming. So, the first quarter of 2024 will be the big tell for AEW’s future. If we don’t hear something, if we don’t see something, I have to wonder where Tony’s taking this.

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Nick then explained, if that is true and AEW did move to another network, WBD would just get a cut of the profits, such as the licensing fees.

It’s been long-rumored that Warner Brothers Discovery owns a stake in AEW. Tony Khan has never outright confirmed or denied that fact, but he has maintained that he has creative control of the company.

This situation with AEW and Warner Brothers Discovery is about to get very interesting soon. The situation has wide implications, particularly for AEW, which has been engaged in discussions with WBD on various deals beyond television rights renewals, including potential streaming. WBD also receives a share of AEW’s streaming PPV buys through Bleacher Report.

Dave Meltzer noted on F4WOnline that WWE is using CM Punk’s name as a big drawing factor to inking a deal with RAW. Now that Punk comes with the red brand, it will be interesting to see what happens.

What’s your take on this current arrangement for AEW and WBD? Let us know what you think in the comments section!

Transcription by Ringside News