Starting September 20, 2025, WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) will be exclusively available in the U.S. on ESPN’s newly launched direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming service, marking a pivotal shift for wrestling viewers seeking live WWE content. This includes blockbuster events like the inaugural Wrestlepalooza on September 20, Crown Jewel on October 11, and Survivor Series on November 29[1].

ESPN Launches Direct-to-Consumer Service — What WWE Fans Need to Know

ESPN officially launched its new all-in-one DTC streaming service on August 21, 2025, offering comprehensive access to its entire suite of sports channels and content online. Subscribers can select from two plans:

• ESPN Unlimited Plan ($29.99/month or $299.99/year): Includes access to all ESPN linear networks (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network), ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, and additional regional feeds. This plan unlocks access to 47,000 live events annually, including all WWE PLEs[2][3].

• ESPN Select Plan ($11.99/month or $119.99/year): Focuses primarily on ESPN+ content, with over 32,000 live events per year but without the full linear channel suite[2].

WWE fans wanting live access to PLEs must subscribe to the Unlimited Plan, as all WWE Premium Live Events will only be featured on this tier from September onward[1][2].

Wrestlepalooza Kicks Off ESPN-WWE Partnership

The first WWE PLE streamed exclusively on ESPN’s platform will be the debut Wrestlepalooza event from Indianapolis’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse on September 20, beginning at 7 pm ET. Headliners include WWE stalwarts John Cena, Cody Rhodes—known as the “American Nightmare” and Undisputed WWE Champion—Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, CM Punk, and Drew McIntyre. According to sources close to WWE, Wrestlepalooza holds special significance as the last Cena match in Indianapolis, marking an emotional sendoff for the 16-time world champion in that city[1].

Additional WWE PLEs scheduled to air on ESPN’s platform this year include Crown Jewel in October and Survivor Series in November[1].

How to Access WWE Events on ESPN’s New Streaming Platform

Fans can sign up for ESPN’s new streaming service online at stream.espn.com, where they can choose from the two plans based on viewing preferences and budget[1][2]. For current cable and satellite subscribers, access to ESPN’s full streaming content will require authorization through their provider, though some negotiations remain unresolved. Notably, Comcast Xfinity, YouTube TV, Dish Network, Sling TV, and Cox users may face delays in gaining authorization to the new platform initially[4].

Cord-cutters have an option to purchase the ESPN Unlimited Plan on its own or as part of a bundled package with Disney+ and Hulu, enabling seamless access to WWE events and other premium sports programming[3].

WWE’s Long-Term Streaming Vision with ESPN

The new arrangement with ESPN marks a broader shift as WWE modernizes its content distribution strategy in the streaming era. Starting in 2026, even marquee mega-events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam will be included alongside other PLEs on ESPN’s platform[2]. This partnership aligns with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro’s vision for an all-encompassing, personalized sports streaming service to serve fans anytime, anywhere, with advanced features like betting and fantasy sports integrated directly[3].

A WWE insider revealed, “This partnership is not just about reach but enhancing the fan experience digitally. WWE sees ESPN’s platform as the future home for fans to connect with live in-ring action and exclusive programming seamlessly”[source].

What This Means for WWE Fans

• Access to All Premium Live Events: No more pay-per-view purchases through traditional cable or third-party services—subscribing to ESPN Unlimited plan will cover all WWE PLEs.

• High-Quality Streaming: ESPN’s enhanced app promises an upgraded user interface, personalized content recommendations, and multi-device compatibility for fans on the go[5].

• Potential for Additional Content: With ESPN’s extensive sports network, WWE fans might see expanded wrestling-related content, including exclusive interviews, studio shows, and historical matches as part of ESPN+ offerings.

Summary of WWE Content on ESPN’s New Streaming Service

For fans eager to catch every big WWE moment live and on-demand with the simplicity of one streaming subscription, ESPN’s new DTC service represents a major upgrade in how wrestling content is consumed.

Sources: WWE.com, ESPN press releases, Fightful Wrestling reports, ABC News interviews with ESPN executives.