AEW’s New Warner Bros. Discovery Deal Could Lead to Major Schedule Changes

Tony Khan has worked hard to solidify AEW’s partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), ensuring that AEW’s content aligns with the network’s expectations. This strong relationship has sparked plenty of speculation about the future success of AEW, and now it appears the deal could bring some significant changes to the company’s schedule.

Reports suggest that the media rights deal between AEW and WBD is estimated to be worth more than $110 million per year, a huge increase from the previous agreement. During the September 6, 2024 AEW Collision and Rampage tapings, Khan confirmed that AEW will continue airing on TBS and TNT.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer revealed that this new deal is expected to impact AEW’s pay-per-view (PPV) structure. While details remain unclear, Meltzer speculated that the number of AEW PPVs could potentially double as part of the new agreement. He also mentioned that WBD could gain rights to these PPVs.

“The WBD deal is a done deal. There is going to be a pay-per-view component in this deal. If they’re doubling the number and WBD is getting the rights to the pay-per-view, I could see that makes doubling the number make more sense in a lot of ways,” Meltzer said.

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Additionally, Meltzer hinted that AEW’s PPVs could be integrated with HBO Max, potentially adopting a distribution model similar to UFC or WWE. This could allow AEW to expand its reach by offering PPV events through streaming.

“I don’t know exactly if it’s going to be how UFC does it, if it’s going to be how WWE does it, but there is going to be a deal with (HBO) Max with the pay-per-views in some form,” Meltzer added.

As AEW’s deal with WBD nears completion, other networks like FOX are reportedly eyeing AEW programming, adding to the intrigue around how this new arrangement will shape AEW’s future.

What do you think about AEW possibly adding more pay-per-views to their schedule? Could this benefit the company or oversaturate the market? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!