Jeff Jarrett: Wrestling Can’t Survive on Streaming Alone in 2024

One Big Thing

AEW’s Jeff Jarrett says wrestling promotions need more than just streaming platforms to stay profitable in today’s market, despite the growing popularity of digital content delivery.

Why It Matters

As WWE signs a landmark $500 million per year deal with Netflix for Raw, smaller promotions must navigate a complex media landscape with limited resources.

Key Points

• Streaming services alone don’t provide enough revenue for wrestling promotions to survive
• GCW manages with TrillerTV but represents a rare exception
• Cable advertising remains “pretty damn healthy” even post-election
• Success requires a mix of streaming, cable, and network TV presence

By The Numbers

• WWE’s Netflix deal: $500 million per year
• Current major wrestling streaming platforms:
  • ROH Honor Club
  • NJPW World
  • TNA+

Expert Insight

“If you’re just on a streaming platform in 2024, transition 2025, no, I don’t think you can because I don’t think the streaming platform will pay you enough,” Jarrett said on his “My World” podcast.

What’s Next

The industry appears to be moving toward a hybrid model combining traditional TV broadcasts with streaming options, following WWE’s lead with their Netflix partnership.

The Bottom Line

Wrestling promotions must develop diverse distribution strategies across multiple platforms to remain viable in today’s media landscape.

What do you think about the future of wrestling content distribution? Share your thoughts in the comments below.