On Friday it was reported by multiple wrestling news sites that WWE was looking to sell their massive tape library. These sites further reported that Warner Bros. was looking into purchasing the video library. However, an update has now come in regarding these reports, striking them down as erroneous -- although maybe not completely so. The WWEs vast tape library contains footage dating back to the 1950s with over 150,000 hours of content in total. According to TheWrap.com, Warner Bros. was in the midst of negotiating a deal with WWE to acquire the wealth of wrestling footage. However, reports now indicate that this information is incorrect. However, there is some truth to the story. Warner is not looking to purchase the library, but is instead inquiring about obtaining the distribution rights to the footage. Currently, WWE has a partnership with Cinedigm, who currently acts as the distributor for all WWE DVDs. Furthermore, according to sources, WWEs deal with Cinedigm does not have an end date and is set for the foreseeable future. Therefore, while Warner Bros. may be interested, their acquisition of WWEs library for distribution purposes seems unlikely. Despite the earlier reports, WWE will continue to own their own tape library, as they are currently not seeking to sell it to anyone. The matter of distribution rights is another issue, but that too seems to be locked up for the foreseeable future. While a partnership between WWE and Warner Bros. would likely garner huge amounts of mainstream press, it is unlikely to happen at this time -- as WWE will surely continue their partnership with Cinedigm.
Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.
