In a landmark move reshaping the landscape of sports media, ESPN has announced two major partnerships—one with the NFL and another with WWE. These agreements position ESPN as a central hub for live sports content while marking a significant step in Disney’s direct-to-consumer streaming strategy.
ESPN Acquires NFL Network Assets
In early August 2025, ESPN revealed it is acquiring the NFL Network, RedZone, and the NFL’s fantasy football platform. In return, the NFL will receive a 10 percent equity stake in ESPN, estimated to be worth between $2 and $3 billion.
Key aspects of the deal include:
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ESPN gaining ownership of NFL Network’s linear and digital rights.
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RedZone transitioning from NFL control to ESPN.
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An expanded NFL game lineup for ESPN, which will now feature up to seven regular-season games per week.
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Additional access to NFL Draft coverage and integration with fantasy tracking, betting tools, and alternate telecasts.
This acquisition enhances ESPN’s portfolio of football content and deepens its integration with NFL fans. It also supports the upcoming launch of ESPN’s standalone streaming service, scheduled to go live on August 21, 2025, with a base monthly price of $29.99.
WWE Partners with ESPN for Streaming
On August 6, 2025, ESPN announced a five-year agreement with WWE valued at more than $1.6 billion. Beginning in 2026, ESPN will be the exclusive U.S. home for all of WWE’s Premium Live Events (PLEs), including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Royal Rumble, Survivor Series, and Money in the Bank.
Highlights of the WWE deal:
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All major WWE events will stream exclusively on ESPN’s new platform and will also air on linear ESPN channels.
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WWE will produce original pre- and post-event programming for ESPN platforms.
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The new contract marks a significant revenue increase for WWE, rising from around $900 million under its previous NBCUniversal/Peacock deal to approximately $325 million per year with ESPN.
This partnership complements WWE’s broader media strategy, which already includes Monday Night Raw on Netflix (starting in 2025), SmackDown on USA Network, and NXT on The CW.
Strategic Implications
These deals serve as a cornerstone of Disney’s broader vision for ESPN’s future. By securing top-tier live content from both the NFL and WWE, ESPN strengthens its position in an increasingly fragmented streaming market.
Key takeaways:
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ESPN’s streaming service launches with a powerful mix of NFL and WWE content, helping attract and retain subscribers.
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The NFL benefits by monetizing its media assets while maintaining a strategic influence over ESPN.
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WWE gains access to a premium distribution platform aligned with mainstream sports content.
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Fans will experience increased access to high-profile events in one streamlined platform, though at a premium cost.
These deals are subject to regulatory approvals but mark a bold new chapter in U.S. sports broadcasting. With ESPN’s streaming service set to debut in late August, the network is poised to become a dominant force in live sports content delivery.
