ESPN had its eyes on the WWE Draft in 2025—but the idea never came together. According to TC of WrestleVotes during a Q&A, ESPN was interested in featuring the WWE Draft on its platform this year. However, WWE’s current show structure and creative direction reportedly clashed with ESPN’s broadcast style, and the entire idea was dropped before it could take off.
“I know ESPN definitely wanted to have the draft on their platform, but it doesn’t really work in a PLE setting,” TC said. “It’s more of a Raw and SmackDown thing.”
He added that WWE’s formatting and ESPN’s expectations just didn’t mesh, making the concept difficult to execute. Beyond the logistics, TC also noted that WWE may be moving away from the Draft altogether. With the company’s current system of seamlessly bringing talent up from NXT, the Draft might not be seen as necessary moving forward.
The WWE Draft is usually a major moment for reshuffling the rosters and creating new storylines. Fans were quick to notice its absence in 2025, and this update gives some insight into why.
