Following the report that WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) are moving to an ESPN-based platform for a monthly cost of $29.99, new details have emerged that clarify the pricing structure and how current cable subscribers would be able to access the content.
A New Subscription Model Clarified
While the reported $29.99 monthly cost is a significant increase from the current Peacock model, a new report from Alex Sherman of CNBC has clarified what that price includes. According to a tweet from Sherman, there will be no additional charges for individual PLEs. “To answer a question I’ve now received several times — there will be no up charge on the WWE PLEs from ESPN. You’ll get them all with your $29.99 per month subscription, I’m told,” Sherman wrote. This clarifies that the single monthly fee would cover all events, including two-night PLEs like WrestleMania and SummerSlam.
Access for Cable Subscribers
A second, crucial detail from Sherman’s report addresses the large portion of the audience that subscribes to ESPN through a traditional cable or satellite provider. “And cable subs will automatically get the ESPN d-to-c product thru authentication,” he stated. This indicates that viewers who already receive ESPN as part of their existing cable package would likely be able to access the new WWE streaming content without paying the additional $29.99 monthly fee, similar to how the current ESPN app allows authenticated access.
The ESPN Footprint and an Expanding Calendar
This move to a major sports platform coincides with WWE’s expansion of its biggest shows, with SummerSlam recently joining WrestleMania as a two-night event. There has also been talk that other major PLEs could follow suit. A deal with ESPN would ensure this expanded schedule receives top-tier coverage on programs like SportsCenter and other sports analysis shows.
The UFC Blueprint for Success
This strategy closely follows the successful model established by the UFC’s partnership with ESPN. When the UFC moved its events exclusively to the ESPN+ platform, it became deeply integrated into ESPN’s daily programming, which helped grow its fanbase and solidify its position as a premier sports entity. WWE would be looking to replicate that success, using ESPN’s reach to attract new, casual sports fans.
To answer a question I’ve now received several times — there will be no up charge on the WWE PLEs from ESPN. You’ll get them all with your $29.99 per month subscription, I’m told.
And cable subs will automatically get the ESPN d-to-c product thru authentication.
— Alex Sherman (@sherman4949) August 6, 2025
