WWE star Stephanie Vaquer recently turned heads with a provocative video posted to her social media, showcasing her captivating charisma and in-ring allure. Meanwhile, WWE President Nick Khan opened up about how the company’s current streamlined corporate structure under TKO Group Holdings has accelerated key business deals, such as the landmark five-year media rights agreement with ESPN. Amid these developments, a former WWE talent publicly criticized Brock Lesnar’s recent return to WWE programming, igniting debate among fans and insiders.

Stephanie Vaquer’s Stunning Social Media Moment

Stephanie Vaquer, known for her dynamic presence in WWE’s women’s division, shared a sexy video that rapidly gained attention across wrestling fan circles. The video highlights Vaquer’s confidence, athleticism, and charisma—traits that have helped her quickly establish herself as a standout performer. Sources close to Vaquer reveal that her social media engagement is part of a broader strategy to boost her personal brand ahead of potential major storylines in WWE.

Her growing popularity comes at a pivotal time as WWE seeks to expand and diversify its roster amid shifting industry dynamics.

Nick Khan on WWE’s Lack of Bureaucracy Driving Business Success

In a recent episode of “The Varsity” podcast, WWE President Nick Khan praised the efficient, less bureaucratic environment at TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of WWE following the merger with UFC’s parent, Zuffa. Khan explained that this streamlined corporate structure was instrumental in the swift completion of WWE’s groundbreaking media rights deal with ESPN.

“Having less layers of bureaucracy allowed the negotiations to move quickly,” Khan said, emphasizing how TKO’s flat organizational approach contrasts with the traditionally slow-moving contractual processes often seen in entertainment corporations.

The deal announced on August 6, 2025, with ESPN sees all WWE’s Premium Live Events (PLEs)—including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Royal Rumble, and others—moving exclusively to ESPN’s platforms starting in 2026. ESPN’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming service will carry these marquee events in their entirety, with select simulcasts on ESPN linear channels[1][2].

According to WWE.com and ESPN press releases, this partnership not only cements WWE’s place in mainstream sports media but also aims to deliver a more expansive viewing experience for WWE fans nationwide.

What the ESPN Deal Means for WWE Fans

While the move to ESPN’s new streaming service sparked initial concern among fans regarding potential price hikes, further reports from outlets such as Awful Announcing and OutKick clarify that most existing ESPN cable or satellite subscribers will access WWE’s premium content at no additional streaming cost[3][4].

Subscription pricing for ESPN’s standalone DTC service is set at $29.99 per month, surpassing the current Peacock plans that host WWE events. However, subscribers through providers like DirecTV, Hulu Live, Charter, FuboTV, and Verizon Fios will benefit from authentication access without extra fees.

Industry insiders suggest the ESPN deal is a win for WWE’s broader strategy to elevate live events’ prominence and capitalize on ESPN’s vast sports fanbase.

Backlash from a Former WWE Star Over Brock Lesnar’s Return

On the talent front, a former WWE star publicly criticized Brock Lesnar’s return to WWE programming, calling into question the impact it might have on other talent and creative directions. While Lesnar remains one of WWE’s biggest draws, some ex-wrestler voices argue that his repeated comebacks create stagnation, potentially blocking the rise of new main-event stars.

Sources familiar with backstage dynamics tell Wrestling Headlines that Lesnar’s latest return was a polarizing subject among wrestlers and creative staff alike, with some praising the “draw” he brings, while others privately express frustration about WWE’s overreliance on established names.

WWE’s Outlook: Balancing Star Power and New Talent

WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H recently appeared on ESPN’s “Get Up” and celebrated the new deal with WWE’s partner ESPN, noting that the company is riding a wave of momentum with fresh talent and sustained star power alike[5]. This balance is pivotal as WWE navigates growth opportunities in a competitive sports-entertainment market.

According to a WWE insider, “The company is committed to showcasing stars like Stephanie Vaquer alongside legends like Lesnar. The ESPN deal gives them the platform to do both on a massive scale.”

Conclusion

WWE’s evolving landscape in 2025 is marked by strategic corporate shifts, fresh talent rising through the ranks, and iconic stars returning to the spotlight. Stephanie Vaquer’s social media surge, Nick Khan’s remarks on streamlined governance facilitating the ESPN deal, and the critical backlash to Brock Lesnar’s comeback highlight the dynamic tensions and opportunities that characterize WWE today.

As WWE prepares for the 2026 transition to ESPN’s exclusive streaming platform for its biggest events, fans and industry observers alike will watch closely how these changes influence WWE’s content, talent development, and overall brand trajectory.

Sources: WWE.com, ESPN Press Releases, OutKick, Awful Announcing, “The Varsity” podcast, Wrestling Headlines insider reports, “Get Up” interview with Triple H.