ESPN Seals $1.6 Billion WWE Live-Event Deal as McAfee Targets Middle Management
The pact brings marquee WWE events to ESPN’s streaming platforms alongside broadcast channels in 2026 to boost its direct-to-consumer strategy.
Overview
- ESPN agreed to a five-year, $1.6 billion contract for U.S. rights to WWE Premium Live Events, including WrestleMania, SummerSlam and the Royal Rumble starting in 2026.
- Pat McAfee tweeted his congratulations to ESPN and WWE while denouncing what he called the network’s “mid level, powerless, bum ass suits.”
- McAfee’s latest dig highlights an ongoing feud with ESPN’s middle management that erupted early last year with accusations against former executive Norby Williamson.
- Network leaders such as Jimmy Pitaro and Disney CEO Bob Iger have backed McAfee’s creative control as ESPN shifts toward personality-driven programming.
- The agreement represents ESPN’s latest effort to deepen its streaming lineup and compete more aggressively in the evolving sports media landscape.