VGW and WWE Announce Multi-Year Partnership

VGW (Virtual Gaming Worlds) has announced a multi-year partnership with WWE, designating the interactive entertainment giant as a key collaborator across its portfolio of online social gaming brands.

The agreement, commencing in 2026, will see VGW’s leading platforms, including Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker, integrated into the high-octane world of professional wrestling to capture the attention of WWE’s vast North American audience.

The reason behind the deal centers on WWE’s transition to a new media landscape in 2026. With all Premium Live Events (PLEs), including WrestleMania 42 and SummerSlam, moveing to ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer platform as part of a USD1.6 billion (AUD2.3 billion) rights deal, VGW is turning its marketing spend to align with this “always-on” entertainment engine. The partnership grants VGW access to WWE’s global network and Superstar talent to create bespoke content, digital campaigns, and broadcast integrations.

Commenting on the partnership, VGW’s chief marketing officer, Ben Whitford, said: “WWE is an entertainment powerhouse with a passionate fan community.”

“This collaboration connects our audiences through dynamic content and experiences that combine VGW’s love of games with WWE’s iconic brand,” Whitford said.

Noting the synergy between the two organisations, WWE vice-president of Global Partnerships, Jesse Tomares, added: “By combining VGW’s expertise in interactive entertainment with WWE’s unmatched reach and storytelling engine, we’re creating new ways for our audiences to engage across multiple touchpoints.” 

Strategic Integration and Commercial Reach

The partnership provides VGW with a comprehensive suite of assets to engage its highly active US player base:

VGW brands will receive prominent placement during marquee events, including WrestleMania 42 at Allegiant Stadium (18–19 April 2026) and a two-night SummerSlam at U.S. Bank Stadium (1–2 August 2026).

The deal includes production time with WWE talent, allowing for the creation of “money-can’t-buy experiences” and exclusive social media content.

Beyond streaming, VGW will maintain high visibility during SmackDown on the USA Network and Raw on Netflix, following the latter’s USD5 billion (AUD7.2 billion) global move to the streaming giant.

The official launch is expected in the coming weeks, coinciding with the build-up to the Royal Rumble and the commencement of the 2026 broadcast season.

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