ESPN has discreetly eliminated its All Elite Wrestling (AEW) news section, igniting intense discussions among wrestling fans and industry observers. This shift occurs just days after the network revealed an expedited streaming partnership with WWE.
Shots fired by WWE?
Visitors to the AEW section on ESPN’s website are now encountering a “page error” message. This unexpected removal surprised many fans, especially those who had only recently discovered that ESPN hosted an AEW news hub. The timing of this change has sparked speculation among viewers.
Earlier this week, WWE and ESPN said that Premium Live Events (PLEs) will start streaming on ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer channel on September 20, which is earlier than the 2026 date that had been planned. WWE’s “Wrestlepalooza,” which will be held in Indianapolis, will be the first event under this new deal. Peacock will show the company’s last major roster PLE, “Clash in Paris,” on August 31. For now, you can still watch NXT events on Peacock.
The recent removal of AEW content from ESPN’s website has sparked significant reactions among fans online. Some perceive the change as a strategic move linked to WWE’s parent company, TKO, and its association with ESPN. Others contend that it is simply an instance of corporate consolidation, with ESPN favoring its new streaming partner.
Regardless of the underlying motive, this change highlights the increasing competitiveness of the pro wrestling media landscape. For AEW, which has been striving to enhance its mainstream visibility, losing its presence on ESPN is a significant setback. Conversely, for WWE, this partnership marks another advancement in expanding its streaming reach and solidifying its connections with major sports media.
As WWE’s new material goes live on ESPN and AEW gets ready for its next shows, fans will be watching closely to see whether this deal means that wrestling will be shown in a different way on more popular channels.
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*Top Photo: Getty/AEW