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ESPN Secures NFL Equity Swap and WWE Live Event Rights for New Streaming Service

ESPN’s August 21 streaming debut will feature expanded NFL content secured through an equity swap; a $1.6 billion WWE rights deal further enriches its live sports lineup.

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Overview

  • The NFL will receive a 10% stake in ESPN in exchange for NFL Network, RedZone, NFL Films and related assets, in a deal awaiting federal approval and an owners’ vote.
  • ESPN locked in exclusive U.S. streaming rights for WWE’s marquee Premium Live Events, including WrestleMania, via a five-year, $1.6 billion contract effective 2026.
  • ESPN’s standalone streaming platform will launch August 21 at $29.99 per month, offering all ESPN linear channels and live events, with existing cable or satellite subscribers granted access at no extra cost.
  • The NFL agreement increases ESPN’s seasonal game windows from 22 to 28 and merges NFL Fantasy with ESPN’s fantasy football under the new direct-to-consumer app.
  • These partnerships cap ESPN’s pivot to direct-to-consumer distribution by consolidating marquee sports rights to drive subscriber growth amid a competitive streaming landscape.