The End of an Era for WWE Fans
As we bid farewell to the year 2023, WWE fans are mourning the loss of an era they’ve grown accustomed to – the company’s extensive video library being available on Peacock. The partnership between WWE and NBCUniversal’s streaming service has officially come to an end, leaving the vast and historic archive without a singular official home for the time being.
A Lucrative Deal Comes to a Close
The deal between WWE and Peacock, which was initially announced in 2021, allowed fans to access over 24,000 hours of exclusive content, including classic matches, pay-per-view events, and original series like Friday Night SmackDown and Raw. While the partnership was a significant milestone for wrestling fans, it was also a lucrative deal for WWE, as it provided a substantial revenue stream through Peacock’s subscription-based model.
Fans React to the Loss
The news of the video library’s removal from Peacock has sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community, with fans taking to social media to express their disappointment and frustration. “I’m going to miss having access to all those classic matches,” said longtime WWE fan Mark Davis. “I know it’s not the end of the world, but it’s definitely a loss for fans like me who want to revisit the history of the company.”
WWE’s Plan for the Future
While WWE has not officially announced a new partnership or streaming deal, sources close to the company have revealed that they’re exploring alternative options to ensure their content remains accessible to fans. “WWE is committed to making their content available to fans in one form or another,” said a WWE insider. “They’re working on a few different projects to ensure that their library remains a valuable asset, even if it’s not on Peacock anymore.”
The Impact on WWE’s Business Model
The expiration of the Peacock deal is likely to have a significant impact on WWE’s business model, particularly in terms of revenue. According to a report by Forbes, WWE generated an estimated $100 million in revenue from Peacock in 2022 alone. While WWE has a robust direct-to-consumer strategy in place, the loss of this revenue stream will undoubtedly be felt.
A New Era for WWE Content
As WWE navigates this new landscape, fans can expect to see a shift in the way the company presents its content. With the rise of social media and online platforms, WWE is well-positioned to adapt and evolve its content strategy to meet the changing needs of its fans. “WWE is always looking for new and innovative ways to engage with their audience,” said a source close to the company. “This is an opportunity for them to explore new avenues and create new experiences that fans will love.”
The Future of WWE on Streaming Services
While the exact details of WWE’s future streaming deals remain unclear, one thing is certain – the company will continue to be a major player in the world of streaming. With the rise of platforms like DAZN, Disney+, and FITE.TV, WWE is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for live sports and entertainment content.
As we look to the future, one thing is clear – WWE’s iconic video library may be gone from Peacock, but its impact on the world of professional wrestling will be felt for years to come.