Steve Carrier on March 6, 2026
Tony Khan is reportedly optimistic about the potential purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount, though others in the industry believe the move could have major implications for AEW’s future.
The proposed deal has become a major talking point across the wrestling world because AEW currently airs its programming on Warner Bros. Discovery networks. If the purchase goes through, Paramount would gain control of those television relationships and streaming platforms tied to AEW content.
Dave Meltzer addressed the situation in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, noting that the potential merger could significantly impact the long-term direction of AEW.
“The most important news story in wrestling, as far as the future and viability of AEW, is just a tiny piece of the puzzle in the proposed Paramount purchase of WBD.”
According to Meltzer, people close to Khan indicated that the AEW president reacted positively when the news first broke.
“Those close to Tony Khan say that he was thrilled when the news came out, feeling this was the best possible scenario for him.”
However, not everyone sees the development as good news for AEW. Meltzer noted that others believe the acquisition could lead Paramount to reconsider AEW programming altogether, either to reduce costs or due to business relationships with TKO.
“Others are claiming it’s the death knell because Paramount, either to cut back on costs, or due to pressure from TKO given they have contracts with UFC and Zuffa Boxing, will get rid of TKO’s only real significant wrestling competition.”
Another major factor tied to the proposed purchase involves the future of the streaming platforms associated with both companies. Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison has already outlined a plan that would combine HBO Max and Paramount+ into a single streaming service.
The combined platform could significantly increase the total subscriber base. A report earlier this year estimated HBO Max currently has around 135 million subscribers worldwide, including 59 million in the United States. Paramount+ is estimated to have approximately 79 million global subscribers, with 35.8 million in the U.S.
If the services merge, the new platform would represent one of the largest streaming audiences in the industry, which could have major implications for AEW’s distribution if its content remains tied to the network group.
The situation remains fluid as the proposed acquisition continues to develop, and its outcome could ultimately shape the future of AEW’s television presence.
Do you think the potential Paramount purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery would help AEW grow, or could it create new risks for the company? Let us know your thoughts and leave your feedback in the comments.
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