Category: WWE

ESPN Pushes Back On Report Claiming WWE Deal Won’t Be Renewed

A report suggesting ESPN has already decided against renewing its WWE streaming agreement is being strongly disputed by the network.

Earlier this week, SEScoops reported that ESPN was not expected to renew its multi-billion-dollar deal with WWE when the agreement expires in 2030. The report cited concerns regarding subscriber growth, the current media landscape, and an alleged lack of synergy between the two companies.

However, an ESPN executive has publicly denied those claims.

ESPN Executive Calls Report “Completely False”

Ben Cafardo, ESPN’s head of WWE Premium Live Events and several other major properties, addressed the report on social media and rejected the notion that ESPN has already made a decision about the future of its WWE partnership.

“There is no truth to this.”

Cafardo also criticized the reporting process behind the story.

“They never checked with us before publishing and had they, we would have told them that was completely false.”

The ESPN executive’s comments directly contradict the claims that the network has already determined it will not pursue a new agreement with WWE once the current deal concludes.

SEScoops Stands By Its Reporting

Following Cafardo’s response, SEScoops writer BJ Bethel defended the report and stated that he continues to stand by the story.

Bethel said he attempted to reach ESPN for comment through available company channels before publication and noted that he had previously communicated with Cafardo.

Despite ESPN’s public denial, SEScoops has not retracted the report.

Questions Continue Around ESPN Unlimited

The debate comes amid ongoing discussion surrounding ESPN Unlimited, the streaming platform that became the home of WWE Premium Live Events following the landmark agreement announced in August 2025.

The deal, reportedly worth more than $1 billion, moved WWE’s premium events to ESPN Unlimited beginning with Wrestlepalooza.

Recent reports have focused on subscription numbers for the service, particularly after ESPN announced a price increase earlier this week.

The original SEScoops story suggested concerns over subscriber growth and distribution were contributing factors behind ESPN’s reported dissatisfaction with the partnership.

Similar Rumors Surfaced In 2025

This is not the first time speculation has emerged regarding the WWE-ESPN relationship.

In late 2025, former WWE writer Freddie Prinze Jr. claimed ESPN was experiencing buyer’s remorse over the agreement due to subscriber expectations not being met.

At the time, sources from both WWE and ESPN pushed back on those claims.

No Official Indication Of Trouble

For now, there is no official evidence that ESPN plans to end its relationship with WWE when the current contract expires.

With the partnership only entering its second year of a five-year agreement, both companies continue to work together on WWE Premium Live Events and related programming.

While conflicting reports have created speculation about the future, ESPN’s public position remains clear: reports claiming the network has already decided against renewing the WWE deal are inaccurate.

WWE NXT Preview 8/25/2026

WWE NXT tonight at 8/7c on The CW.

  • AAA World Cruiserweight Championship Match: Rey Fenix (c) s. EK Prosper
  • Weaponized Steel Cage Match: Saquon Shugars vs. Dion Lennox
  • BirthRight vs. Sean Legacy, Noam Dar, Romeo Morena, and Dorian Van Dux
  • Kali Armstrong vs. Zaria (Armstrong will be added to the title unification match at Heatwave if she wins)

First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show Announced For Memphis

Memphis legend Doug Gilbert announced on X – The First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show.

Professional wrestling fans will have the opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the industry’s most unforgettable stars later this month.

The First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show is set to take place on August 29, 2026, at Minglewood Hall in Memphis, Tennessee, honoring the memory of the late Sid Vicious while supporting a cause that was close to his heart.

Presented by the Eudy family and TWO (The Wrestling Order), the inaugural event honors the legendary career of Sid Eudy (Sycho Sid / Sid Vicious). All proceeds from the event directly support local animal shelters in honor of Sid’s love for animals.

Event To Benefit Local Animal Shelters

Organizers announced that 100% of the proceeds from the event will be donated to local animal shelters.

Sid was known for his love of animals, making the charity component a fitting tribute to the wrestling icon’s legacy outside the ring.

150+ Wrestlers Scheduled For Massive Battle Rumble

The centerpiece of the event will be a massive Battle Rumble featuring more than 150 wrestlers, making it one of the most unique wrestling attractions of the year.

In addition to the oversized rumble, organizers have also announced that the show will feature at least four additional matches.

Wrestling Legends And Stars Announced

A number of notable names from across wrestling history have already been confirmed for the memorial event, including:

  • Carlito
  • Dan Spivey
  • Jonathan Gresham
  • Dangerous Doug Gilbert
  • Wildfire Tommy Rich
  • Reggie B. Fine
  • Jordynne Grace

Promoters have also teased that many more wrestling stars and legends will be announced leading up to the show.

Event Information

First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show

📍 Minglewood Hall – Memphis, Tennessee

📅 August 29, 2026

🕓 Meet & Greet: 4:00 PM

🔔 Bell Time: 6:00 PM

🎟️ Tickets: ticketsource.com/two

Honoring A Wrestling Legend

Sid Vicious remains one of the most recognizable stars of the 1990s, competing in WWE, WCW, ECW, USWA, and numerous other promotions throughout his Hall of Fame career.

Known for his intimidating presence, memorable promos, and multiple world championship reigns, Sid became a larger-than-life figure who left a lasting impact on the wrestling business.

Now, fans, wrestlers, and friends will gather in Memphis to celebrate his legacy while raising money for local animal shelters in a night that promises to be both memorable and meaningful.

With more than 150 wrestlers expected to participate and a lineup featuring legends from multiple generations, the inaugural Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show is shaping up to be a unique event dedicated to one of wrestling’s most iconic personalities.

http://ticketsource.com/two

Report: ESPN Unlikely To Renew WWE Streaming Deal Beyond 2030

A new report suggests the long-term future of WWE’s relationship with ESPN could be in doubt.

According to SEScoops, ESPN is not currently expected to renew its agreement with WWE when the company’s streaming rights deal expires in 2030, potentially forcing WWE to find a new home for its premium live events.

WWE-ESPN Partnership Facing Uncertain Future

WWE and ESPN announced a landmark partnership in 2025 that brought WWE premium live events to the ESPN Unlimited streaming platform as part of a five-year deal reportedly worth more than $1 billion.

At the time, the agreement was viewed as a major win for both companies, giving ESPN a marquee entertainment property while providing WWE with another lucrative media rights package.

However, according to the report, sources familiar with the situation believe ESPN has grown less enthusiastic about the partnership due to several factors.

Among the issues reportedly cited are:

  • Changes in the overall media landscape
  • ESPN Unlimited not gaining the level of cable distribution originally expected
  • A perceived lack of cultural fit and synergy between WWE and ESPN

The report claims the original agreement was largely negotiated between executives at TKO and Disney, with limited direct involvement between WWE and ESPN personnel during the early stages of the partnership.

ESPN Has Increased WWE Promotion

Despite the reported concerns, communication between the two sides is said to have improved significantly in recent months.

ESPN has reportedly become more aggressive in promoting WWE programming, including airing portions of premium live events across ESPN platforms and dedicating more discussion time to WWE on its studio shows.

That increased coverage has not gone unnoticed.

According to the report, WWE has received more discussion on some ESPN morning programs in 2026 than traditional sports properties such as Major League Baseball and the NHL, leading to criticism from some viewers and media observers.

Subscription Numbers Reportedly A Key Issue

The report comes shortly after ESPN announced another price increase for ESPN Unlimited subscriptions.

Sources reportedly believe the move is tied to the service falling short of internal projections.

ESPN and Disney had hoped the streaming platform would help offset declining cable revenues, but that goal has reportedly not materialized to the extent expected.

As a result, ESPN has shifted strategy by making WWE content more accessible and promoting it more heavily, whereas WWE premium live events were initially viewed as a major incentive designed to drive new subscriptions.

Deal Could Still Be Saved

While the report paints a challenging picture, it also notes that a future agreement remains possible.

For that to happen, ESPN Unlimited would likely need to see a significant increase in subscribers or secure broader cable distribution under terms favorable to ESPN.

At this stage, neither development appears guaranteed.

Similar Concerns Surfaced In 2025

This is not the first time questions have been raised about the WWE-ESPN partnership.

In late 2025, actor and former WWE writer Freddie Prinze Jr. claimed ESPN was experiencing buyer’s remorse over the deal due to lower-than-expected subscription growth.

Those claims were later denied by sources from both WWE and ESPN.

As of now, neither company has publicly commented on the latest report.

With four years still remaining on the current agreement, there is plenty of time for the situation to change. However, if the report proves accurate, WWE may eventually find itself searching for a new streaming partner when its ESPN Unlimited deal expires in 2030.

WWE SmackDown Preview 8/21/2026

WWE SmackDown airs live tonight at 8/7c on the USA Network and Netflix for international fans, from the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

  • WWE Tag Team Championship Match: The MFTs (Tama & Talla Tonga) (c) vs. Damian Priest & R-Truth
  • Undisputed WWE Championship Match: CM Punk (c) vs. Kevin Owens
  • Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton expected to address what took place last week
  • Giulia vs. Blake Monroe
  • Oba Femi to appear

Report: Ilja Dragunov Departing WWE As Contract Expires

Former WWE United States Champion and NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov is reportedly no longer with WWE.

According to PWInsider, a report that has since been confirmed by Fightful Select, Dragunov’s contract with WWE has expired. While the exact expiration date has not been disclosed, multiple signs point to his departure from the company.

Dragunov Removed From WWE Roster

The reports note that Dragunov was removed from WWE’s internal roster this week. In addition, WWE has moved “The Mad Dragon” to the alumni section of its official website, further indicating that his tenure with the company has come to an end.

Dragunov had most recently been featured on SmackDown following his return from a lengthy absence due to an ACL sprain.

One of the biggest moments of that comeback came in October 2025 when he defeated Sami Zayn to capture the United States Championship in his first match back from injury.

Future Remains Unclear

As of now, there is no word on whether Dragunov’s expired contract includes a non-compete clause that would prevent him from immediately signing elsewhere.

That uncertainty has already led to speculation regarding his next destination.

With AEW All In: London scheduled for August 30, some fans have wondered whether Dragunov could potentially appear for AEW. However, there is currently no indication that such a move is imminent, nor has AEW publicly expressed interest.

Final WWE Matches

Dragunov’s final WWE appearance came in the 2026 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal on the SmackDown episode preceding WrestleMania 42.

The match was ultimately won by Royce Keys.

His final singles match took place on March 30, where he was defeated by then-United States Champion Carmelo Hayes.

Accomplished WWE Career

Dragunov first joined NXT UK in February 2019 and made his televised debut later that year.

He quickly became one of the brand’s standout performers, earning widespread praise for his hard-hitting matches and intense rivalry with GUNTHER.

In 2022, Dragunov transitioned to NXT in Orlando, where he entered a memorable feud with Carmelo Hayes over the NXT Championship.

His performances eventually earned him a main roster call-up during the 2024 WWE Draft, leading to a successful run that included capturing the United States Championship.

While WWE has yet to officially comment on Dragunov’s departure, reports indicate that his contract has expired, bringing an end to his run with the company. The next chapter of his career remains one of the biggest questions in professional wrestling.

WWE NXT Preview 8/18/2026

WWE NXT tonight on the CW at 8/7c.

  •  AAA World Cruiserweight Championship #1 Contenders Match: EK Prosper vs. La Parka vs. Tristan Angels vs. Romeo Moreno
  • WWE Men’s Speed Championship Match: Lexis King (c) vs. Lucien Price
  • Myles Borne vs. Jackson Drake
  • If Drake wins, Vanity Project gets NXT North American Title and NXT Tag Team Title matches at NXT Heatwave.
  • Wren Sinclair & Kendal Grey vs. Kelani Jordan & Kali Armstrong
  • Thea Hail vs. Nattie
  • Cruz Montana calls out Zilla Fatu

Lance Anoa’i Announces Plans To Retire From Professional Wrestling In 2027

A member of the legendary Anoa’i wrestling family is preparing to step away from the ring.

Lance Anoa’i announced on Instagram that he plans to retire from professional wrestling in March 2027, bringing an end to a career that will span nearly 17 years.

The former WWE and MLW performer shared a lengthy statement reflecting on his time in the business and explaining why he has decided that the next chapter of his life will focus on family.

Lance Anoa’i Announces Retirement Plans

In his post, Anoa’i expressed gratitude to the fans, promoters, and fellow wrestlers who have been part of his journey since his debut.

“After almost 17 years in professional wrestling, I will be officially calling time on my in-ring career in March 2027, once I reach that 17-year milestone.”

Anoa’i noted that wrestling has provided him with countless memories and experiences, but he has reached a point where he wants to dedicate more of his time to his wife and children.

“For so many years, wrestling has taken up my weekends, my time, and countless moments away from the people I love most. I’ve reached a point where I want to dedicate that time to my wife and my kids and be there for the moments that matter most.”

He also praised his family members who continue to carry on the Anoa’i legacy in professional wrestling.

“I love what they’re building, I love being part of it in any way I can, and I will always support them 100% in everything they do going forward.”

While retirement is on the horizon, Anoa’i emphasized that he is not finished just yet.

“This isn’t goodbye just yet though. We still have a few months to go!”

Career Spanning Nearly Two Decades

Anoa’i made his professional wrestling debut in April 2010 and spent much of his career competing on the independent wrestling scene.

One of his most notable runs came in Major League Wrestling (MLW), where he captured the MLW World Tag Team Championship during his time with the promotion.

He also made several appearances on WWE television throughout the mid-to-late 2010s as enhancement talent before eventually signing a WWE contract in 2024.

WWE Run Cut Short By Injuries

After joining WWE, Anoa’i was expected to begin the next phase of his career within the company’s developmental system. However, multiple injuries prevented him from making an official in-ring appearance for WWE.

He was ultimately released by the company in October 2025 without ever wrestling a televised match under contract.

Following his WWE departure, Anoa’i shifted some of his focus toward Power Slap while continuing his involvement in combat sports and entertainment.

Final Year Begins

With retirement now officially planned for March 2027, Anoa’i enters what will be the final months of his wrestling career.

As a member of one of wrestling’s most famous families, he leaves behind a career that included nearly two decades of competition and contributions to promotions across the wrestling landscape.

For now, fans still have several months remaining to see Lance Anoa’i compete before he officially calls time on his in-ring career.

WWE Raw Preview 8/17/2026

WWE /raw live tonight at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT. on Netflix from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

  • World Heavyweight Championship #1 Contender Tournament Match: Dragon Lee vs. El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.
  • World Heavyweight Championship #1 Contender Tournament Match: Rey Fenix vs. El Fiscal
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship Match: Chad Gable (c) vs. Rey Mysterio
  • Jey Uso to deliver Solo Siko to roman Reigns

Hiromu Takahashi Revealed As Shinsuke Nakamura’s Mystery Partner In WWE Digital Exclusive

WWE has seemingly revealed the identity of Shinsuke Nakamura’s mystery partner, and the reveal points to another major international signing joining the SmackDown roster.

After making his first WWE appearance since May during a pre-recorded backstage segment last week, Nakamura promised that he had found an ally to help him take the fight to Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga, collectively known as The MFT’s.

Nakamura Sends Warning To New WWE Tag Team Champions

Friday night’s edition of SmackDown saw Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga capture the WWE Tag Team Championship, defeating Damian Priest, R-Truth, and AAA Tag Team Champions The War Raiders in a triple threat match.

Following the show, WWE released a digital exclusive featuring Nakamura addressing the new champions.

“Congratulations MFT’s. You are now the champions. Are you savoring the feeling, knowing it will be gone soon? Was the victory as sweet, knowing what’s coming next? Me, my partner, your destruction.”

As the promo continued, WWE showed brief glimpses of Nakamura’s mystery partner while teasing his arrival on SmackDown.

“My partner is what you all pretend to be. Experienced, vicious, deadly. He is chaos. He is a ticking time bomb. Take cover.”

Hiromu Takahashi Appears WWE-Bound

The phrase “Ticking Time Bomb” immediately caught the attention of New Japan Pro-Wrestling fans, as it has long been associated with Hiromu Takahashi.

Takahashi, one of NJPW’s most accomplished junior heavyweight stars, departed the promotion earlier this year after a 15-year run.

In February, NJPW officially announced his departure following discussions with company management.

During his career, Takahashi became one of the most recognizable stars in Japanese wrestling and competed for several major promotions, including:

  • New Japan Pro-Wrestling
  • AEW
  • Ring of Honor
  • CMLL
  • Pro Wrestling NOAH

The former IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion has been heavily linked to WWE since becoming a free agent, and Nakamura’s latest promo strongly suggests that he will soon arrive on SmackDown.

WWE Continues Adding Free Agents

Reports earlier this year indicated that Takahashi was among several notable free agents believed to be WWE-bound.

Since then, a number of those names have already debuted, including:

  • Big Cass
  • Baron Corbin
  • Cruz Montana
  • Zilla Fatu

If the tease proves accurate, Takahashi would become the latest high-profile addition to WWE’s growing roster.

When Will Takahashi Debut?

As of now, WWE has not officially announced a debut date for Takahashi.

However, with Nakamura openly teasing his arrival and positioning him as a key ally against the newly crowned WWE Tag Team Champions, it appears only a matter of time before the former NJPW star makes his first appearance on Friday Night SmackDown.

Should Takahashi arrive as expected, WWE fans could soon see one of Japan’s most decorated wrestlers join forces with Nakamura in a battle against The MFT’s and the WWE Tag Team Champions.