6 Things We Learned From WWE's Fourth Quarter Earnings

5. The Network's Increased Scope

Vince McMahon conference
WWE

The WWE Network has revolutionised the way fans consume wrestling. It has become the primary focus of WWE programming outside of Raw and SmackDown, and its continued success has forced the competition to follow suit. Almost every notable wrestling promotion has some form of video streaming service in 2017, and it’s largely down to the WWE Network’s all-round success.

Vince is extremely proud of the Network’s scope, and give himself a pat on the back during yesterday’s earnings call. The “super serving” quote aside, Vince is happy with the Network’s increased product diversification through shows like 205 Live and the WWE UK Title Tournament in 2016, and mentioned that the Cruiserweights will soon have their own sources of revenue in the form of live events and merchandise.

The financial report notes that WWE Network subscribers watched a total of 294 million hours of content in 2016, which is an increase of 15% on the 2015 figure. This represents an average of 194 hours per household, and places the Network among America’s top broadcast networks. Though McMahon and George Barrios aren’t over the moon with the numbers, they’re both satisfied, and expect further growth in 2017.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.