AEW and WBD Negotiating Extensive New TV Contract Amid High Expectations

Progress continues on the collaboration between AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery.

According to Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp, discussions have been ongoing, with recent developments suggesting a new long-term television deal could soon be finalized.

WBD sources have confirmed that while some bureaucratic hurdles remain, a substantial offer has recently been extended to AEW. This offer comes after what has been described as a productive meeting between AEW’s Tony Khan and WBD’s David Zaslav in Paris during the Olympics.

Sources describe the proposal as “extensive,” indicating a significant commitment, though specifics beyond the term ‘extensive’ were not provided. The decision now rests with AEW, which is currently reviewing the proposal.

Previously, AEW was reportedly offered at least double their current deal, although it is unclear if this increase is for the same amount of programming or includes additional elements. AEW’s existing deal includes shows like “Dynamite,” “Collision,” and “Rampage,” and it grants exclusivity for AEW programming on television, which is why “Dark” is no longer available on YouTube.

The scope of AEW’s engagement with WBD has been broad, involving reality shows, special crossovers, and pilots on WBD’s digital channels. Discussions about pay-per-view strategies, next-day streaming, library rights, and ROH content packages could significantly impact the financial terms of any new agreement.

Internally, there have been rumors of a potential shift in AEW’s pay-per-view strategy discussed by WBD, although details remain speculative as WBD did not comment on these discussions. It’s noted that any new agreement with AEW would likely consider the implications for Max, WBD’s streaming service.

Both AEW and WBD representatives have expressed optimism about continuing their partnership for the foreseeable future. AEW’s initial short-term agreement with WBD began in 2019 and was extended at the start of 2020.

With a substantial offer on the table and a history of productive collaborations, the future of AEW’s programming looks promising. As both sides work through the final details, the wrestling world eagerly awaits the outcome of these discussions, which could further solidify AEW’s status as a major player in the industry.

How significant do you think the potential new TV deal between AEW and WBD could be for the future of wrestling programming? What impact might an increase in the deal’s value and possible changes in PPV strategy have on AEW’s content and fan engagement? Share your thoughts on how these developments could reshape AEW’s presence in the wrestling world.