In a significant move toward mainstream sports integration, WWE is launching its revived Wrestlepalooza event on ESPN’s new streaming platform—a milestone signaling the company’s broader push into conventional sports media. This WWE ESPN deal marks a new era for the company.

Scheduled for September 20, 2025, Wrestlepalooza will take center stage at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. This marks the first WWE event under the Wrestlepalooza name since its ECW-era run ended in 2000. Notably, it will also represent WWE’s first major event available on ESPN’s direct-to-consumer streaming service—a strategic upgrade from its current home on Peacock, highlighting the importance of the WWE ESPN deal.

WWE’s deal with ESPN extends beyond Wrestlepalooza, encompassing other premium live events like Crown Jewel (October 11) and Survivor Series (November 29)—all accessible via ESPN’s “unlimited” streaming tier in the U.S. The WWE ESPN deal is set to redefine access to wrestling events.

WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins recently underscored the significance of the partnership during an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up, framing it not just as a broadcasting shift, but as a move that “legitimizes WWE athletes as recognized performers and competitors” in mainstream American sports culture.

Wrestlepalooza’s relaunch on ESPN—especially as the first direct rival to an AEW All Out event on the same night—signals WWE’s intent to capture a broader viewership and challenge competitors head-on with its enhanced distribution strategy under the WWE ESPN deal.

The ESPN partnership likely aims to diversify WWE’s audience profile, elevating its status within the traditional sports ecosystem. This move could also strengthen the perception of wrestling as a legitimate athletic discipline—targeting fans who may not engage with dedicated wrestling platforms but tune into ESPN for mainstream sports coverage.