Update on AEW and WBD Media Rights Negotiations

Negotiations continue between AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery, the owner of TBS and TNT channels that broadcast AEW’s weekly shows. Their current agreement is set to expire later this year.

This week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, reported by Dave Meltzer, reveals that no deal has been finalized yet, despite earlier rumors suggesting otherwise. Talks have been ongoing and are aimed at closing the deal, with no discussions involving other broadcasters at this stage.

AEW’s timing for these negotiations appears challenging. Recent low TV ratings might affect the value of the AEW product. However, some argue that WBD needs AEW more than ever, especially if they lose broadcast rights to NBA basketball during their own media rights negotiations. The NBA is reportedly nearing a deal with Amazon, NBC, and ESPN. WBD can match the current offer, but Meltzer mentions that WBD’s new deals with Mountain West football, Big East Conference basketball, and NASCAR, as well as existing contracts with March Madness, NHL hockey, and MLB baseball, could mitigate the impact of losing NBA rights.

Additionally, WBD is expected to aggressively pursue UFC rights, which could affect “AEW Collision,” whether it results in a change of day or channel. Meltzer also highlighted a recently announced collaboration between AEW and WBD IPs, DC Comics, and “Adult Swim.” This development suggests that both parties expect to finalize a deal soon.

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter