Recently, there were reports that Warner Bros. Discovery had discussions with WWE about the TV rights for WWE Raw. Naturally, this raised questions about what this potential deal could mean for All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
If WWE were to demand exclusivity and Warner Bros. Discovery didn"t want to pay for two wrestling products, AEW might need to find a new TV home for the first time since it started in 2019. When AEW owner and president Tony Khan was asked about these reports after the Ring of Honor Final Battle pay-per-view, he downplayed concerns about Warner Bros. Discovery potentially exploring other options.
Khan mentioned having positive talks with Warner Bros. Discovery, emphasizing their strong relationship over the years. He highlighted AEW"s recent successes in ratings and attendance, expressing excitement about the future. Khan acknowledged the due diligence required in the TV business but conveyed confidence in AEW"s position for substantial growth in 2024.
AEW’s Tony Khan opens up on Warner Bros. Discovery negotiating with WWE https://t.co/8u2O5sCyKk pic.twitter.com/9E7nPQBfy3
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) December 19, 2023
He also discussed AEW"s achievements in 2023, including the introduction of a third weekly show, AEW Collision. Despite challenges faced by TNT"s Saturday show, Khan deemed Collision as “very successful." However, the possibility of AEW losing its only TV partner to a rival promotion, considering WWE"s potential deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, adds uncertainty.
AEW"s current deal with Warner Bros. Discovery concludes at the end of 2024. The impact of the next rights deal on AEW"s future is significant, and while the talks between Warner Bros. Discovery and WWE introduce uncertainty, Khan remains optimistic. He likened the negotiations to his experiences as an owner in the NFL and English Premier League, emphasizing the ongoing process in the sports and television landscape.
