What's happened
Wrestlepalooza, WWE's first premium live event on ESPN, took place in Indianapolis, featuring high-profile matches including John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar. The event marks WWE's shift from Peacock to ESPN for US broadcasts, with UK viewers able to watch live on Netflix. The deal is part of ESPN's strategy to attract sports fans and cord-cutters.
What's behind the headline?
The WWE's move to ESPN signifies a strategic shift to diversify its broadcasting platforms and reach a broader audience, especially younger viewers and cord-cutters. ESPN's focus on entertainment aligns with WWE's brand, and the deal aims to boost ESPN's subscriber base through exclusive content. The event's timing, coinciding with AEW's competing show, indicates a competitive push in the wrestling entertainment market. The reliance on streaming platforms like Netflix for UK viewers highlights the global shift toward digital consumption, though regional restrictions and licensing remain complex. Overall, this transition will likely increase WWE's visibility and revenue, but it also risks fragmenting its audience if not managed carefully.
What the papers say
The NY Post highlights WWE's debut on ESPN and compares it to previous high-profile broadcasts on Fox and Netflix, emphasizing the significance of the move. The Scotsman discusses the event's impact on UK viewers, noting that they can watch Wrestlepalooza live on Netflix, and provides context on WWE's history with the event name. Business Insider UK offers detailed guidance on how to stream Wrestlepalooza in the US, explaining the new ESPN platform and its implications for viewers, including the shift from Peacock. The Independent echoes these points, focusing on the accessibility of the event in the UK and the broader strategic move by WWE to partner with ESPN. AP News provides insight into the logistics of access, discussing the subscription models and negotiations with carriers, and underscores the significance of ESPN taking over WWE's major events from Peacock, with a focus on the financial aspects of the deal.
How we got here
WWE's new five-year media rights deal with ESPN was announced in August, valued at over $1.6 billion, significantly increasing WWE's previous earnings from its deal with Peacock. The partnership makes ESPN the exclusive US home for WWE's premium events, shifting coverage from Peacock and expanding ESPN's sports entertainment offerings. The event, Wrestlepalooza, is the first under this deal, featuring major matches and the return of notable stars like John Cena and Brock Lesnar.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Did ESPN Take Over WWE Streaming Rights?
ESPN's recent deal to stream WWE events marks a major shift in how fans access their favorite wrestling entertainment. With ESPN now the exclusive home for WWE's premium live events in the US, many are wondering what prompted this change and what it means for viewers. Below, we explore the reasons behind ESPN's takeover, how it impacts WWE fans, and what the future holds for sports streaming rights.
-
What’s Next for Global Tech and Trade Tensions?
The landscape of international technology and trade is rapidly evolving, with major developments like US-China negotiations over TikTok, Nvidia’s strategic moves amid China’s chip bans, and shifts in pharmaceutical investments. These stories raise important questions about how countries are balancing security, economic growth, and technological leadership. Below, we explore the key issues shaping the future of global trade and tech relations, answering the most pressing questions you might have.
-
What Does WWE Moving to ESPN Mean for Fans?
WWE's recent switch from Peacock to ESPN marks a major change in how fans will watch their favorite wrestling events. This new five-year deal with ESPN, valued at over $1.6 billion, shifts WWE's broadcasting from a streaming platform to a major sports network, raising questions about access, viewing options, and the future of WWE's media strategy. Below, we explore what this move means for fans and how you can stay updated on upcoming events like Wrestlepalooza.
-
What are the biggest stories shaping today’s news cycle?
Every day brings new headlines that capture our attention and shape the world around us. From major sports events to global economic challenges, understanding the key stories helps you stay informed. Below, we explore the top news stories today, how they connect, and what you need to know to keep up with the latest developments.
-
What Do These Major News Stories Mean for Everyday People?
Staying informed about the latest headlines can help you understand how big events might impact your daily life. From sports deals and retirement costs to immigration policies and AI advancements, these stories shape our future in many ways. Below, we explore what these headlines mean for you and answer common questions about their implications.
-
Why Did the US Hike H-1B Visa Fees So Sharply?
In September 2025, the US government announced a significant increase in H-1B visa application fees, raising questions about the reasons behind this move and its impact on foreign workers and US employers. Many are wondering what prompted this change, how it will affect the visa process, and what legal challenges might arise. Below, we explore the key aspects of this policy shift and what it means for global talent mobility.
More on these topics
-
Colby Daniel Lopez is an American male professional wrestler, wrestling trainer, and actor. Lopez is currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the SmackDown brand under the ring name Seth Rollins.
-
John Felix Anthony Cena Jr. is an American professional wrestler, actor, rapper, and television presenter. He is currently signed to the WWE on a part-time deal, is the current host of Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?
-
Phillip Jack Brooks, better known by the ring name CM Punk, is an American professional wrestler, professional mixed martial arts commentator, and retired professional mixed martial artist currently signed to All Elite Wrestling.
-
World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., d/b/a WWE, is an American integrated media and entertainment company that is primarily known for professional wrestling.
-
Brock Edward Lesnar is an American-Canadian professional wrestler, retired mixed martial artist, former amateur wrestler and professional football player. He is currently signed with WWE where he performs on the SmackDown brand.
-
Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes is an American professional wrestler, promoter, and actor. He is signed to All Elite Wrestling, where he performs under his real name and serves as an Executive Vice President as well.
-
ESPN is an American multinational basic cable sports channel owned by ESPN Inc., owned jointly by The Walt Disney Company and Hearst Communications. The company was founded in 1979 by Bill Rasmussen along with his son Scott Rasmussen and Ed Egan.
ESPN bro
-
Rebecca Lopez is an Irish professional wrestler and actress. She is signed to WWE under the ring name Becky Lynch where she performs on the SmackDown brand and is the current SmackDown Women's Champion in her fourth reign.
-
Andrew McLean Galloway IV is a Scottish professional wrestler. He is signed to WWE, where he performs on the Raw brand under the ring name Drew McIntyre.
-
April Jeanette Mendez is an American professional wrestler and author. As of September 2025, she is signed to WWE, where she performs under the ring name AJ Lee.
Mendez began her professional wrestling career in 2007 in New Jersey's independent circuit.
-
Bronson Rechsteiner (born October 24, 1997) is an American professional wrestler and former American football player. He is signed to WWE, where he performs on the Raw brand under the ring name Bron Breakker. He previously performed on the NXT brand,...