WWE partners with X for exclusive short-form wrestling show

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has inked a two-year agreement with X, the social network formerly known as Twitter, to introduce an exclusive weekly video series titled WWE Speed.

This collaboration aims leverage the power of digital media to deliver high-octane wrestling action to fans worldwide.

The contract outlines plans for WWE Speed’s rollout on X this spring, promising fresh episodes 52 weeks a year. What sets this series apart is its focus on matches under five minutes in duration, providing viewers with action-packed showdowns tailor-made for today’s fast-paced digital environment. These matches will be exclusive to WWE Speed, ensuring a unique viewing experience that cannot be found elsewhere in WWE’s extensive programming line-up.

This partnership comes at a pivotal moment for X, which has undergone transformative changes under the leadership of Elon Musk since his controversial takeover in October 2022. With advertising revenue on the decline, Musk has set his sights on bolstering X’s appeal through exclusive video content. The launch of WWE Speed aligns with Musk’s vision, offering compelling content to attract sponsors and engage users – ultimately driving increased platform engagement.

Having been an early adopter of Twitter, WWE recognises the immense potential of digital platforms in reaching and engaging its global fan base. With professional wrestling already commanding significant attention on X – particularly during live WWE events – there is palpable optimism surrounding the potential success of WWE Speed among this dedicated fan community.

Looking ahead, WWE’s partnership with X is just one component of its broader digital strategy. The recent landmark $5 billion deal with Netflix underscores WWE’s commitment to expanding its digital footprint and reaching new audiences across various platforms.

As part of this deal, WWE’s flagship programs, Friday Night SmackDown and Monday Night Raw, will undergo significant transitions. SmackDown is moving to the USA Network in October and Raw becomes a Netflix exclusive starting January 2025.

WWE programming will soon be accessible on Netflix internationally, amplifying the organisation’s global reach and solidifying its position as a dominant force in sports entertainment.