Endeavor’s TKO Group is considering expanding the two-day format for WWE premium live events (PLEs) beyond WrestleMania, according to Chief Operating Officer Mark Shapiro. During an appearance at the UBS Global Media & Communications Conference, Shapiro indicated that the company sees this as a “natural evolution” for its premium wrestling product.
“There’s definitely an opportunity for that,” Shapiro stated, while emphasizing that such a move would be contingent on factors such as the specific event and the partnership landscape. This strategic approach underscores TKO’s commitment to maximizing the value of its WWE assets through careful planning and execution.
The recent announcement of two-night SummerSlam events in both 2025 and 2026 signals a potential shift in the presentation of major WWE events. While WrestleMania has been a two-night spectacle since 2020, this expansion to SummerSlam suggests a broader strategy to enhance the fan experience and potentially increase revenue streams.
Strategic Partnerships and Content Distribution
Shapiro also addressed key aspects of TKO’s content distribution strategy, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships and navigating the evolving media landscape.
- Netflix Collaboration: Shapiro expressed confidence in the long-term partnership with Netflix for WWE Raw, despite acknowledging the need to maintain momentum beyond the initial launch phase. He praised Netflix’s commitment to the partnership and emphasized the ten-year duration of the agreement.
- PLE Rights Optimization: With upcoming negotiations for WWE PLE rights, Shapiro anticipates significant interest from potential suitors. He believes the monthly cadence of these premium events, coupled with their high-profile nature, will create a competitive bidding environment.
- Synergy with Traditional Broadcasters: Shapiro reaffirmed the value of TKO’s relationship with NBCUniversal and Peacock, emphasizing the flexibility in scheduling PLEs to align with partners’ strategic objectives.
Financial Considerations and Long-Term Outlook
Shapiro also touched on key financial considerations for TKO, including:
- Site Fees: Securing lucrative site fees for both WWE and UFC events remains a key focus, although Shapiro acknowledged that finalizing all deals by the end of 2025 may not be feasible.
- Long-Term Growth: The potential expansion of two-day PLEs, coupled with strategic content distribution and strong partnerships, positions TKO for continued growth in the evolving sports and entertainment market.
By strategically leveraging its WWE assets, TKO aims to capitalize on the growing demand for premium live events and maximize shareholder value in the years to come.
