There is another element that could complicate things for AEW: the UFC. With the MMA promotion’s media rights deal with ESPN set to expire next year, Meltzer noted that WBD has been one of the names frequently tossed around as an interested party. Depending on how serious WBD’s interest is, UFC’s close ties to WWE could impact AEW’s next offer, though there’s nothing officially stating WBD couldn’t land both.
Additionally, with WWE signing a global deal with Netflix, many TV networks around the world will soon be without any wrestling content. AEW may benefit from this absence, though Meltzer spoke to someone with international television experience who said the industry is in an uncertain time. In the past, networks haven’t been interested in wrestling outside of WWE, and the source believes WBD will wind up with both domestic and international rights for AEW’s programming.
One way or the other, Meltzer believes the next media rights deal is going to be a defining moment for AEW, determining if the promotion is considered a “major success” after five years. The reporter quoted an anonymous source within AEW who was optimistic about the deal, having heard it would be a strong positive for the company, with an agreement believed to be reached soon.
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