PBR Rides to Paramount+ in New Exclusive Streaming Deal
The landscape of sports media rights continues to shift as Paramount+ secures an exclusive, five-year deal to become the streaming home of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR). This declaration, made on Wednesday, signifies another strategic move by TKO Group – the parent company of WWE and UFC – and Paramount/Skydance to broaden their media footprint.
Expanding Paramount+’s Sports Portfolio
Beginning this December, Paramount+ will offer extensive, live coverage of the PBR Unleash The Beast season. The season will encompass 19 events staged across 17 different states over a five-month period,offering widespread access to premier bull riding competition. This expansion builds on a strong year for Paramount+, which recently secured a substantial media rights agreement with UFC, valued at $7.7 billion over seven years, and a subsequent deal for Zuffa Boxing.
The collaboration doesn’t mean a complete severing of ties with conventional broadcast. A weekly PBR event will continue to air on the CBS Television Network,complementing the extensive streaming coverage on paramount+. Furthermore, content related to PBR will also be available on Pluto TV, Paramount’s free streaming service.
A Continued Partnership With Deep Roots
CBS Sports has a longstanding relationship with the PBR, dating back to 2013. This latest agreement serves as an evolution of that partnership, leveraging Paramount’s expanded streaming capabilities. The PBR move is consistent with the growing trend of sports content migrating to streaming platforms as viewers increasingly consume content on demand.
media Rights Deals: A Growing Trend
The recent influx of media rights deals demonstrates a notable shift in how sports content is distributed and consumed. According to a report by Deloitte [https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/technology-media-and-telecommunications/articles/sports-media-rights-trends.html], streaming services are now major players in securing these rights, recognizing the value of live sports in attracting and retaining subscribers. The year 2024 saw a 20% increase in sports streaming subscriptions compared to the previous year, underlining this trend.
| League/Institution | Broadcaster/Streaming Service | Deal Type | Approximate Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFC | Paramount/Skydance | domestic Media Rights | $7.7 Billion (7 years) |
| PBR | Paramount+ | Exclusive Streaming Rights | Undisclosed |
| Zuffa Boxing | Paramount/Skydance | Multi-Year Rights Deal | Undisclosed |
Did You Know? Streaming services now account for over 40% of all sports viewing time,a dramatic increase from just 15% five years ago.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about these media rights deals can provide insights into the future of sports broadcasting and streaming, allowing you to anticipate where your favorite leagues and events will be available.
Currently, Paramount+ does not host professional wrestling content, although Women of Wrestling (WOW) can be found on its Pluto TV platform. The network previously syndicated WOW before adjusting its distribution strategies.
The Evolution of Sports Streaming
The move of PBR to Paramount+ is indicative of a broader industry trend. sports fans are increasingly cutting the cord and opting for streaming services, leading to a bidding war among platforms for exclusive rights. This benefits both the sports organizations,who secure lucrative deals,and the fans,who gain more convenient access to their favorite events. Looking ahead, expect this trend to accelerate, with more leagues and events moving to streaming-exclusive models.
Frequently Asked Questions about PBR on Paramount+
- What does this deal mean for PBR fans? This deal provides PBR fans with comprehensive, live coverage of the Unleash The Beast season on a convenient streaming platform.
- Will PBR still be on traditional television? Yes, a weekly PBR event will continue to air on the CBS Television Network.
- How long is the deal between PBR and Paramount+? The agreement is for five years, ensuring exclusive streaming coverage through 2029.
- What other sports content is available on Paramount+? Paramount+ hosts a growing library of sports content, including UFC, soccer, and college sports.
- Is there a cost to view PBR on Paramount+? A Paramount+ subscription is required to access the live PBR events.
What are your thoughts on the increasing number of sports moving to streaming platforms? Will this change the way you consume sports content?
Share this article with your friends and join the discussion in the comments below!
How might AEW adapt its streaming strategy too compete with WWE’s increased presence on Paramount+?
TKO Secures New Media Rights Partnership with Paramount: Latest in WWE and AEW News
The Landmark Deal: TKO & Paramount Global
TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of WWE and UFC, has announced a significant media rights partnership with Paramount Global. This multi-year agreement reshapes the landscape of professional wrestling broadcasting, impacting both WWE and, indirectly, AEW (All elite Wrestling).The deal, finalized in November 2025, centers around bringing WWE’s premium content – including Raw, SmackDown, and Premium Live Events (PLEs) – to Paramount’s streaming service, paramount+, and its linear networks like CBS and the Paramount Network.
This partnership represents a strategic shift for WWE, moving away from long-standing relationships with NBCUniversal. It’s a pivotal moment for TKO, aiming to maximize the reach and revenue potential of its flagship properties. The financial details,while substantial,haven’t been fully disclosed,but industry analysts estimate the deal to be worth over $5 billion.
Key Components of the TKO-Paramount Agreement
Here’s a breakdown of the core elements of the new media rights deal:
* Paramount+ Streaming: WWE content will become a cornerstone of Paramount+’s sports programming, attracting new subscribers and bolstering its position in the competitive streaming market. Expect exclusive PLEs and expanded on-demand libraries.
* Linear Television: Raw will move to the Paramount Network,while SmackDown will remain on CBS. This provides continued exposure to a broad television audience.
* International Rights: The agreement also encompasses international media rights, expanding WWE’s global footprint.
* Content Collaboration: Potential for cross-promotional opportunities and collaborative content creation between WWE and Paramount’s other entertainment properties.
Impact on WWE Programming & Fan Experience
The move to Paramount is expected to influence WWE’s creative direction and presentation. Paramount’s focus on storytelling and character advancement could led to a more narrative-driven approach to WWE programming.
* Increased Production Value: Paramount’s resources could translate to higher production values for Raw and SmackDown, enhancing the viewing experience.
* exclusive Content: Paramount+ subscribers will gain access to exclusive PLEs and behind-the-scenes content, creating a premium offering.
* Potential for New Shows: The partnership opens the door for new WWE-themed shows and documentaries on Paramount+.
AEW’s Position in the Shifting Landscape
While the TKO-Paramount deal directly involves WWE, it has significant implications for AEW.AEW currently airs Dynamite on TBS and Rampage on TNT, both owned by Warner Bros. Revelation.
* Increased Competition: WWE’s strengthened position with Paramount intensifies the competition for viewership and advertising revenue.
* Negotiating Leverage: AEW’s upcoming media rights negotiations with Warner Bros. Discovery will be influenced by the value demonstrated in the TKO-Paramount deal. AEW will likely seek a comparable or even more favorable agreement.
* Strategic Adjustments: AEW may need to explore new strategies to differentiate itself and maintain its market share. This could include focusing on unique in-ring action, innovative storytelling, and a strong connection with its fanbase.
* The Streaming Wars: The deal highlights the importance of streaming platforms in the future of professional wrestling.AEW will need to consider its streaming strategy to remain competitive.
Analyzing the Financial Implications
The $5+ billion valuation of the deal underscores the enduring appeal of professional wrestling.This partnership is a bet on the continued growth of both WWE and the streaming market.
* Revenue Streams: The deal provides TKO with a diversified revenue stream,combining subscription revenue from paramount+,advertising revenue from linear television,and international media rights fees.
* Stock Performance: The declaration of the deal positively impacted TKO’s stock price, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s future prospects.
* Long-term Growth: The partnership positions TKO for long-term growth by securing a stable and lucrative media rights agreement.
Looking Ahead: Future of Wrestling Media Rights
The TKO-Paramount deal is likely to trigger a ripple effect throughout the professional wrestling industry. Other promotions, including AEW, will be closely watching the results of this partnership.
* Media Rights Negotiations: Expect more aggressive negotiations for media rights as companies compete for valuable content.
* Streaming Dominance: Streaming platforms will continue to play an increasingly important role in the distribution of professional wrestling.
* Content Innovation: Promotions will need to innovate their content offerings to attract and retain viewers in a crowded media landscape.
