WWE’s ESPN Deal Blows Up After $5M Suit Exposes Hidden Streaming Fees After Promising ‘No Upcharge’
ZMG Breaking News
2026-01-23
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A federal class-action lawsuit filed Jan. 8, 2026, alleges WWE misled subscribers over charges tied to its new ESPN distribution, raising transparency concerns.
The WWE–ESPN partnership began in August 2025 with a five-year, $1.6 billion deal promising premium events on ESPN platforms. Fans reported hidden fees and paywalls, including $29.99 ESPN Unlimited charges, despite assurances from WWE President Nick Khan and an ESPN press release of no upcharge.
Authentication varied by carrier: DirecTV and Spectrum enabled access, while Comcast Xfinity, YouTube TV, and Cox lagged. Plaintiffs cited missed debut access, including marquee bouts such as Cena vs. Lesnar. The filing names only WWE and references $2.8–$3.7 million in affected revenue, with potential regulatory interest.
The WWE–ESPN partnership began in August 2025 with a five-year, $1.6 billion deal promising premium events on ESPN platforms. Fans reported hidden fees and paywalls, including $29.99 ESPN Unlimited charges, despite assurances from WWE President Nick Khan and an ESPN press release of no upcharge.
Authentication varied by carrier: DirecTV and Spectrum enabled access, while Comcast Xfinity, YouTube TV, and Cox lagged. Plaintiffs cited missed debut access, including marquee bouts such as Cena vs. Lesnar. The filing names only WWE and references $2.8–$3.7 million in affected revenue, with potential regulatory interest.
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