WWE Co-President George Barrios spoke to The Verge about its streaming service, WWE Network, and the changes that are coming.
In the interview, Barrios stated that a major integrated experience is coming soon, in weeks and not months. He brought up how he wants their free content and premium subscription content to be in one place on the WWE Network. He stated that the content you can access just depends on what level member you are.
He also noted that they have bigger ideas for the network including a premium subscription plan that could add exclusive content, as well as potentially ticketing and merchandise components. The Verge listed the following breakdown for the tiered system:
Free: This will offer the same free-to-watch videos you’d normally find on WWE.com. Barrios said WWE might also offer timed previews of paid WWE Network content.
Regular: The standard WWE Network experience, combining free content with subscription benefits like live pay-per-views, on-demand streaming, and original programming.
Premium: “We think there’s also an opportunity to super-serve our most passionate Network subscribers with a premium tier that’ll bring together more content for them, more features for them, and also integrating some of our other non-video services like our commerce — potentially integrating something like free shipping, bringing together our digital ticketing efforts in there. It becomes the one place to experience everything WWE,” Barrios said.
It should be noted that Barrios didn’t disclose how much WWE would charge for the premium tier.
Back in July, WWE revealed a number of changes to the streaming service. This included a new interface.
WWE Network: Details & Pricing For New Tier Options
At the time, after a WWE conference call, it was noted that the tiered payment plan was said to be rolling out sometime within the next 12 months.
A report surfaced that noted WWE will be introducing a Free plan as well as a $4.99, $9.99, and top tier $14.99 option.
The top tier is said to include access to alternative promotions. It’s well known that WWE has had previous discussions with notable independent companies about potentially airing their events and adding their tape library to the WWE Network. These promotions include EVOLVE, PROGRESS and ICW.
