Big WWE Network Changes: 10 Things You Need To Know
6. "Independent Wrestling Content"
The most significant news coming out of these WWE Network changes, arguably, is the addition of what WWE's survey referred to as "Independent Wrestling Content" for $14.99 subscribers. Specifically referencing TNA and Ring of Honor, this note stands to alter the face of wrestling itself.
It's already been widely reported that WWE is about to purchase (or has already purchased) TNA's video library, leading to a full rebranding for the ailing promotion. If WWE owns the footage, they'd be able to air it at their liberty, just as they do with WCW, ECW, and the AWA.
Ring of Honor's situation is a bit different - the promotion is doing well and, presumably, has no interest in losing the rights to its media. WWE would have to work out a licensing deal with ROH, and that could be a double-edged sword for the independent promotion - on the one hand, they'd get money and exposure from the WWE Network. On the other, having their stars introduced to WWE's fans would give WWE even more reason to sign them up.
WWE is also said to be considering deals to air shows from EVOLVE (which already has a relationship with the company) and the UK's PROGRESS Wrestling.