AEW’s Future on TV Could Be in Jeopardy If Streaming Doesn’t Save It

AEW may be doing solid numbers on paper, but behind the scenes, there’s growing concern that the company still isn’t seen as “must-have” programming by TV networks—especially compared to WWE and UFC.

During a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer discussed AEW’s shaky standing when it comes to future TV rights negotiations. While WWE and UFC are pulling billion-dollar deals, AEW isn’t viewed on that level.

“WWE and UFC are sure things. AEW is not a sure thing.”

That statement was Meltzer’s way of explaining how media buyers and network execs currently rank AEW—not as essential viewing, but as replaceable content that hasn’t fully proven itself. The pressure is only growing as AEW approaches another round of media rights talks.

Meltzer also pointed out that AEW’s core audience is younger and increasingly watches via streaming instead of traditional TV, which complicates ratings metrics.

“Everyone I talk to is watching on streaming. It’s a miracle to me they’re even doing what they do on TBS now.”

That shift in behavior may be great for convenience but bad for ad revenue, which TV networks still depend on. Streaming doesn’t deliver the same kind of immediate commercial value, which means AEW needs to secure a strong digital deal to stay competitive.

As for AEW’s recent ratings dip, Meltzer shut down speculation that men were tuning out. Instead, he identified two specific groups that dropped off:

“The big losses in the last couple of weeks were women and the over-50 audience. The male demo held steady.”

Meltzer said AEW ran into stiff competition from other shows that attract those demographics:

“The Challenge always draws well with women, and the Little League World Series does really well in the older demos. That’s where AEW took a hit.”

The bottom line? AEW isn’t in immediate trouble, but it’s far from a lock. Without a strong streaming presence or digital integration, the next rights cycle could decide whether Tony Khan’s promotion survives long-term in a media world dominated by WWE and UFC.

Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.