There are some early-on talks being made about the possibility of Warner Bros. Discovery merging with Paramount Global.
Axios learned from multiple sources that CEO David Zaslav met with Paramount Global CEO Bob Bakis on December 19 about the idea of merging the two television powerhouses.
WBD plays host to TNT, TBS and HBO while Paramount controls CBS, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central so together the duo could really pack a punch for continuing and prospective customers. However, where does it all leave AEW and WWE?
Whenever a wrestling fan hears the term “merger” it could cause cold sweats because of the infamous AOL-Time Warner fusion that ultimately ended WCW. That changed the landscape of the business solely WWE. However, in this case, the move may bode well for perhaps both promotions.
It was believed that WWE would soon sign its Raw television rights over to WBD, but nothing has happened as of yet. It appears by past actions Zaslav has an appreciation for pro wrestling and if WBD were to mergr with Paramount, they’re the primary bread winner between the brands. WBD earnings are valued around $29 billion while Paramount is around $10 million. That’s likely an indicator that Zaslav would at least want to sign one promotion.
However, in the same turn, the fact that there may still be interest in AEW could allow Paramount to host AEW programming while Raw airs every Monday could be on TNT. In that regard, AEW’s brand identity doesn’t get diminished or discarded.
