AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery forge a groundbreaking partnership

A new era for AEW with Warner Bros. Discovery

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has embarked on a transformative journey by signing a multi-year multimedia rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery. While the financial specifics remain undisclosed, insiders suggest the deal is valued at over $150 million annually, encompassing various elements. This agreement ensures that AEW’s flagship shows, Dynamite and Collision, will continue to air on TBS and TNT, respectively. For the first time since its inception in 2019, AEW programming will also stream live on Max for U.S. subscribers, with on-demand availability starting January 2025.

Tony Khan’s vision for AEW’s future

AEW CEO, GM, and head of creative, Tony Khan, expressed his excitement about the extended partnership:

“We are honored to announce the extension of our incredible partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery. This extension continues the tradition of iconic wrestling events broadcast on TBS and TNT, while also establishing a new legacy for AEW through weekly live streams on Max for years to come. We thank David Zaslav, Kathleen Finch, and everyone at WBD for their tireless support of All Elite Wrestling since its inception, as well as the AEW fans, talent, and staff that helped make this possible.”

Expanding AEW’s reach and content

The deal not only secures the broadcast of AEW’s popular shows but also includes enhanced distribution rights across social media platforms. Additionally, there is potential for new AEW programming on both linear and digital platforms. Starting in 2025, AEW live pay-per-views will be available on Max at a discounted price, with all marketing and promotions exclusively focused on Max.

Kathleen Finch, chairman and CEO of US Networks for Warner Bros. Discovery, shared her enthusiasm:

“Tony Khan and the entire AEW team have been incredible partners, and we are thrilled to strike this expanded agreement to deliver amazing new AEW content and stories to TNT and TBS, as well as bring the thrilling live action to Max for the first time. We are focused on creating fresh and authentic experiences for AEW’s passionate and engaged fanbase while also introducing them to our growing lineup of high-action sports and entertainment at TNT and beyond.”

AEW’s impressive track record

AEW’s flagship show, Dynamite, premiered on TNT in October 2019 and has since become Wednesday’s number one cable entertainment series among adults aged 18-49. Collision also ranks in the top five for its Saturday timeslot among both adults 18-49 and men 18-49. AEW’s current roster boasts champions like Bryan Danielson, Mariah May, Mercedes Moné, tag team The Young Bucks, Will Ospreay, Jack Perry, Wheeler Yuta, Pac, Claudio Castagnoli, and Kazuchika Okada.

Industry validation and future prospects

Bernie Cahill, founding partner of Activist Artists Management, reflected on AEW’s journey:

“I was there when Tony Khan first shared his vision for creating a media and live entertainment company that would disrupt the wrestling industry. This WBD renewal is a resounding validation of Tony’s vision and leadership – making AEW a unicorn in terms of enterprise value in the media and live entertainment space.”

The broader landscape of sports rights

The announcement of AEW’s deal comes at a time when sports rights prices are soaring. AEW’s chief rival, WWE, has recently secured new deals for its shows Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, with Raw set to debut on Netflix in January 2025.

Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.