ESPN's Streaming Service Launch Date Set for August 21, Bolstered by NFL and WWE Deals

ESPN's streaming service will launch on Aug. 21, offering all ESPN networks, NFL Network, and WWE premium live events. The service aims to attract cord cutters with a $29.95/month price tag and hopes to reach 25 million subscribers initially. The NFL deal adds three more games and specialty highlights, while the WWE partnership brings a new audience with a multigenerational fan base. Disney will stop releasing ESPN streaming subscriber metrics next quarter.

ESPN is set to launch its long-awaited streaming service on August 21, marking a significant milestone in the company's digital transformation. The new platform will offer a wide array of content, including all ESPN networks, NFL Network, and exclusive access to WWE's premium live events. The service aims to attract cord-cutters with a competitive price tag of $29.99 per month, with the option to bundle with Hulu for $35.99 per month.

The streaming service will initially target 25 million subscribers, leveraging the high demand for premium sports content. The NFL deal, which gives ESPN a 10% stake in the network, adds three more games and specialty highlights to the service. Additionally, the partnership with WWE brings a new audience with a multigenerational fan base, further enhancing the service's appeal.

Disney, the parent company of ESPN, has stated that it will stop releasing subscriber metrics for the streaming service next quarter. This move suggests a focus on the quality and exclusivity of the content rather than the quantity of subscribers.

The competitive streaming landscape has seen various iterations of cable networks launching dedicated streaming services, with ESPN joining this trend. The service will provide access to popular programming such as Monday Night Football and the college football playoffs, which are not available elsewhere without a cable subscription.

The new deal between ESPN and the NFL, which includes the acquisition of NFL Network and RedZone, is subject to regulatory approval. The value of the NFL's stake in ESPN is estimated to be between $2 billion and $3 billion, according to media analysts.

The partnership with WWE, valued at over $1.6 billion, is a significant addition to ESPN's content portfolio. The deal will include all of WWE's major live events, including WrestleMania and SummerSlam, beginning in 2026.

ESPN's streaming service is set to launch later this month, offering a comprehensive sports experience for fans. The competitive pricing and exclusive content make it an attractive option for cord-cutters and sports enthusiasts alike.

References:
[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonifitzgerald/2025/08/06/espn-sets-launch-date-for-30-streaming-service-after-acquiring-nfl-networks/
[2] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/05/disneys-espn-to-acquire-nfl-media-assets-in-major-deal.html
[3] https://sports.yahoo.com/article/wwe-heads-espn-sports-network-121049489.html