AEW’s Media Rights Value Compared to WWE: A Closer Look

One big thing: WBD values AEW closer to WWE Raw than NXT

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) values AEW’s top shows, “Dynamite” and “Collision,” more similarly to “WWE Raw” than “WWE NXT” on a per-viewer-hour basis, despite “NXT” drawing similar ratings to “Dynamite” weekly.

By the numbers:

• AEW’s new deal: Valued at up to $185 million per year, with a potential fourth-year option
• WWE Raw: $1.56 per viewer-hour ($3.67 for 18-49 demographic)
• AEW (Dynamite & Collision): $1.45 per viewer-hour ($3.41 for 18-49 demographic)
• WWE NXT: $0.35 per viewer-hour ($0.91 for 18-49 demographic)

Why it matters:

This valuation suggests that WBD sees AEW as a more direct competitor to WWE’s flagship shows, potentially influencing future negotiations and the competitive landscape of professional wrestling.

The details:

• Wrestlenomics analyzed the per-viewer-hour value by dividing the annual average value of media deals by viewership and content hours produced.
• The study focused on the period from October 2023 to October 2024.
• The new AEW deal keeps shows like “Dynamite” and “Collision” on TBS and TNT until at least 2028, with MAX streaming simulcasts.

The big picture:

This analysis provides insight into how broadcasters value wrestling content, potentially impacting future media rights negotiations across the industry.

What do you think this valuation means for the future of AEW and its competition with WWE? Leave a comment below with your thoughts.