X Teams Up with WWE for ‘WWE Speed’, a New 5-Minute Match Series Set to Launch This April
The social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, has entered into a two-year agreement with WWE to launch a unique weekly video series titled WWE Speed. And it is set to debut this coming April.
This weekly series will consist of 5-minute fast-paced matches featuring WWE Superstars from across its roster. WWE Speed will produce content exclusive to this series and release 52 videos annually.
This collaboration follows a substantial agreement between WWE and Netflix, in which the streaming platform secured exclusive rights to the WWE Raw show in several regions, including North America, the UK, and Latin America, in a deal valued at $5 billion. Netflix is set to stream the show on its platform starting January 2025.
In related news, Vince McMahon, the executive chairman of WWE’s parent company TKO, stepped down following a lawsuit by a former employee alleging sexual assault and trafficking by McMahon and John Laurinaitis, the former senior vice president of talent relations.
TKO Group, which now includes UFC and WWE combined forces, was formed following Endeavor, the parent company of UFC, ‘s acquisition of WWE. This merger, finalised in September 2023, aims to forge a $21 billion empire in live sports and entertainment under the leadership of Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel and McMahon.
This partnership with WWE signifies X’s broader move into the entertainment sector. This move was further emphasized by a recent agreement with Range Media Partners for ten shows, alongside new projects with notable personalities such as former CNN host Don Lemon, sports commentator Jim Rome, and ex-congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.
X has expanded its exclusive content offerings, including streaming rights for the FIFA World Cup last year through Fox. It plans to feature select NBCUniversal content for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. Including sports and sports-related content, such as wrestling, plays a pivotal role in driving engagement on the platform.
Raw is the top-rated program on the USA Network, attracting 17.5 million unique viewers annually. It has produced over 1600 episodes since its launch. WWE’s social media presence extends to over one billion followers across various platforms.
Ragul Thangavel
With over nine years of diverse professional experience, Ragul has made significant contributions across various domains, including Media Operations, OTT Technologies, Video Production, Ecommerce, and Social Media.
Holding an Engineering degree, Ragul's career took an unconventional turn when he discovered his passion for writing, leading him to begin his journey as a content writer.
His career has been exclusively dedicated to the growth and development of startups, where he has played a pivotal role. His unique blend of technical knowledge and creative prowess has enabled him to drive innovation and success in every venture he has been a part of.