Paramount’s $110 billion takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery is now heading toward a courtroom showdown. The deal was supposed to close in September, but the legal fight blocking it could drag out the process and leave AEW waiting to see who controls its television home after 2027.
A Paramount spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter that the latest agreement gives the company a direct path to trial. Paramount believes the evidence will show that the merger should be allowed to move forward.
“This is the fastest and clearest way to prove that this transaction is good for competition, good for consumers and good for creators, a conclusion dozens of competition authorities around the world have already reached. Plaintiffs’ market definitions bear no relationship to the realities of today’s marketplace and cannot withstand scrutiny. We look forward to proving our case at trial.”
The deal is currently blocked while the court handles the lawsuit challenging the merger. A federal judge extended the temporary restraining order through August 18, with arguments over a longer injunction scheduled for August 3.
AEW’s current deal with Warner Bros. Discovery is not changing. The company is under contract through the end of 2027, with an option for 2028, and its television shows and pay-per-views continue to air and stream through TBS, TNT and HBO Max.
The bigger question is what happens after the merger. Paramount+ and HBO Max are expected to become one streaming platform once the deal is completed, but there is no word yet on whether AEW would remain part of that new service.
AEW is secure for now, but Tony Khan’s next media rights negotiation could happen under a completely different company. Paramount says it is ready for trial, and the result could decide who controls AEW’s television and streaming future.
Do you think AEW will stay with the company after Paramount takes over Warner Bros. Discovery? Leave your feedback in the comments.
