ESPN SVP/DTC John Lasker participated in a conference call where he emphasized the inclusion of WWE into ESPN programming. This would include the sports network reporting on WWE events.
Lasker stated that the transition to its new digital platform would be everywhere. “We’re not 100% there today, but over the next couple of months, the vast majority of folks that are subscribed to ESPN through an MVPD (Multichannel Video Programming Distributor) will have access to our ESPN Unlimited plan and then therefore have access to all the PLEs to come.”
Lasker noted that this weekend’s coverage of Wrestlepalooza which will include an ESPN Sportscenter from the location of the event and a strong social media presence as well as likely promotion of the event during ESPN college football games. ESPN will include WWE talent in its programming as it will practice corporate synergy with its new partner.
Lasker noted that it was not counterprogramming when Wrestlepalooza was scheduled for Saturday, September 20th. Despite the fact that AEW had its PPV, All Out, scheduled on that day. Lasker stated that it was not intended to be competing with AEW as there is also college football.
We knew we wanted to have a marquee WWE event in September to support the launch of ESPN’s direct-to-consumer offering…So, really, it had less to do with any particular wrestling competition…And we’re in the teeth of the football season now. So, we welcome competition.
Payout Perspective:
It still boggles the mind that ESPN will be showcasing WWE. For the all sports network, reporting and featuring sports “adjacent” (I mean sports entertainment) is wild. But, two key factors play into the decision. First, money. Second, the need to fill its digital platform with content. We will see if casual ESPN viewers will catch on with watching WWE.
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