WWE Reportedly Discussing AEW's TV Future After 2027
WWE is reportedly discussing internally the possibility of AEW facing challenges securing another major media rights deal once its current agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery expires.
Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that multiple sources within WWE have been talking about uncertainty surrounding AEW's future once the /Skydance merger situation fully plays out.
One WWE source of the outlet admitted nobody actually knows yet who will ultimately make decisions regarding AEW programming once the merger is finalized.
However, another WWE source noted that internal word has been spreading throughout the company and it suggests AEW might not remain part of future Paramount/Skydance plans.
"But another person in WWE noted to us this week that they have definitely spread word in the company among some if not many that AEW won't be on Paramount/Skydance and question if they can get a viable deal elsewhere," Meltzer wrote.
The report stated that some people at high levels inside WWE are speaking as if AEW potentially not getting another major deal is already becoming an expectation internally.
"One person there noted that people at the highest levels are talking like AEW won't get another deal," according to the Observer.
Meltzer also highlighted that similar rumors were heavily pushed during AEW's last media rights negotiations before the company secured a massive increase on its previous deal.
WWE sources also believe there is still massive uncertainty around the entire situation as nobody truly knows how Paramount/Skydance will consider AEW long-term once the merger becomes official.
Meltzer further noted that AEW still brings strong ratings value to TBS, performs well in important demographics, generates pay-per-view revenue, and remains significantly cheaper than UFC from a media rights standpoint.
