So much had been written and talked about regarding the WWE finding a new television home but what has come of those negotiations?
Back in March, WWE CFO George Barrios was quoted as saying that network negotiations would be completed and an announcement would be made in either late April or early May. Last week, an excellent article by David Bixenspan on Bleacher Report highlighted the belief that Spike TV could be the new home for WWE.
If Spike goes with WWE, it’s sayonara to TNA. Without Spike, where will TNA land? My sources in the industry tell me that people laugh behind Dixie Carter’s back because she wants to ensure a guaranteed talent contract for herself to sell the company.
If WWE lands the big loot that’s expected to come with this TV deal, it’s expected to fund all operations of the WWE Network and make up for the loss of PPV revenue. Huge deal.
But WWE needs to keep an eye on the Supreme Court, of all things… as the case before the court now could have a bearing on the future of broadcast and cable TV.
When I read the linked article, I kept thinking how WWE is ahead of the curve with their Network. While the financial subscription model and pricing would have to change, I think we can see the day where all WWE programming is only seen on their network.
Ring of Honor is attempting to fill the PPV void for wrestling fans and it’s exciting for me personally to be able to call live PPV matches on Sunday June 22nd at Best in the World but ROH is not a competitor to the WWE. However, WWE still had 400,000 PPV buys for WrestleMania so there is a market for wrestling on traditional PPV. Now, I’m not suggesting that Ring of Honor will do anywhere near that number but there is an audience who is used to watching wrestling PPV’s on Sunday nights.
It’s an interesting time in the Professional Wrestling industry right now as contract negotiations, Supreme Court rulings and changing landscapes could lead to major changes over the next few months.
What do you think is going to happen? Where will WWE land? Share your thoughts on Twitter @RealKevinKelly.
