WWE’s recent streaming deal with ESPN is stirring up a lot of conversation. Starting in March 2026, all Premium Live Events will stream on ESPN’s platform, with WrestleMania 42 being the first. This $1.6 billion deal is exciting for some fans, but others are not happy. Many worry about the added costs of streaming services, which means they’ll need to pay more to follow WWE programming.
Former WWE Superstar Bishop Dyer, known as Baron Corbin during his time in the ring, sees this as a chance for AEW to attract disgruntled WWE fans. On the podcast Busted Open Radio, he shared, “They’re shaking things up, and not everyone loves it. But this opens doors for AEW. If fans don’t want to pay $30 a month for WWE events, they might look for alternatives.” Dyer emphasized that AEW’s affordability could draw in viewers who are tired of the high costs associated with WWE events and subscriptions.
It’s not just about streaming fees. Families can end up spending nearly $1,000 to attend a WWE show once you include tickets, travel, and food. With varying streaming services like ESPN, Netflix, and Peacock all needed for WWE content, some fans may find AEW’s simpler pricing more appealing.
Strikingly, recent surveys show that fans are increasingly price-sensitive when it comes to entertainment options. A 2023 report found that 60% of wrestling fans are looking for more affordable alternatives. This trend could benefit AEW significantly as they continue to grow their product.
As the wrestling landscape evolves, the direct comparison between WWE’s rising costs and AEW’s relative affordability could reshape fan loyalties. In this competitive environment, it will be interesting to see how both organizations adapt and thrive.
