Last year, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) secured a multi-year media rights extension with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), ensuring that the promotion remains on TBS, TNT, and Max in the United States for the foreseeable future. While AEW’s partnership with WBD is firmly in place, the media giant is now eyeing another major player in the combat sports world—UFC.
WBD’s Interest in UFC’s Media Rights
As UFC’s current media rights deal approaches its expiration at the end of 2025, major networks and streaming platforms are vying for a chance to secure broadcasting rights. Warner Bros. Discovery is among the companies interested in acquiring UFC’s rights, as confirmed by TNT Sports CEO Luis Silberwasser in an interview with The Varsity.
“Combat sports is an area that we don’t have,” Silberwasser stated. “AEW is not combat sports—it’s more of a hybrid between entertainment and sports. UFC, on the other hand, is a fantastic property, and yes, it has definitely caught our interest.”
Potential Impact of a WBD-UFC Deal
If WBD successfully strikes a deal with UFC, it would hold media partnerships with both AEW and TKO Group Holdings, WWE’s parent company. However, Silberwasser acknowledged that UFC is still in negotiations with ESPN, its current media partner, which could make WBD’s bid more challenging.
Additionally, WBD has been cautious about overspending on media properties. Given that UFC’s next media rights deal is expected to reach around $1 billion per year, this hefty price tag could ultimately place WBD out of contention.
AEW’s Ongoing Partnership with WBD
AEW’s existing agreement with WBD, valued at approximately $150 million per year, will continue through at least 2028. Under this deal, AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision air on traditional cable while also being available for streaming on Max. Furthermore, AEW pay-per-view events are expected to become available on Max at a discounted rate for subscribers. However, the streaming platform has yet to implement the necessary features to support this initiative.
UFC’s Media Rights Future
With its ESPN contract set to expire at the end of 2025, UFC is exploring potential new partnerships. While WBD has expressed interest, Netflix has emerged as a strong contender to acquire the broadcasting rights if negotiations with ESPN fall through.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, AEW’s stable relationship with WBD ensures its long-term presence on major platforms, while UFC’s next move remains uncertain. Whether WBD expands its combat sports portfolio or focuses on its existing partnerships, the future of sports entertainment broadcasting is set to undergo significant changes.
FAQs
What is AEW’s current media rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery?
AEW has a multi-year media rights extension with WBD, keeping its programming on TBS, TNT, and Max through at least 2028. The deal is worth an estimated $150 million per year.
Is Warner Bros. Discovery interested in UFC media rights?
Yes, WBD has shown interest in acquiring UFC’s media rights. However, UFC is still negotiating with ESPN, and the high cost of the deal may impact WBD’s ability to secure it.
How does AEW differ from UFC in WBD’s view?
According to TNT Sports CEO Luis Silberwasser, AEW is a hybrid of sports and entertainment, while UFC is considered pure combat sports. WBD currently lacks combat sports in its portfolio, making UFC an attractive option.
When does UFC’s media rights deal with ESPN expire?
UFC’s current media deal with ESPN is set to expire at the end of 2025, and negotiations for its next contract are ongoing.
Which company is the top contender for UFC’s media rights?
Netflix is currently seen as a strong contender for UFC’s broadcasting rights if negotiations with ESPN do not result in a renewal.
