The inaugural WWE pay-per-view event streaming on ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer platform took place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. This milestone stems from WWE’s recently signed five-year agreement with ESPN, marking a fresh chapter for the wrestling promotion and fans alike. The event, named Wrestlepalooza, featured top-tier talent and high-stakes matches that set an intense tone for WWE’s future on the network, showcasing the key partnership highlighted by Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar‘s much-anticipated reunion.
Opening Ceremonies and Star Appearances Kick Off WWE’s New Chapter
Wrestlepalooza began with a vibrant new introduction video crafted to celebrate WWE’s move to ESPN. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque, widely known as Triple H, welcomed live audiences and viewers at home, emphasizing the dawn of a new era. Backstage footage captured Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton arriving alongside Pat McAfee, who returned to the commentary booth after a summer hiatus. McAfee expressed fatigue but his excitement to resume his role was evident as he settled into his spot beside the broadcast team.
Intense Clash Between John Cena and Brock Lesnar Dominates the Night
The event’s opening match pitted iconic WWE superstar John Cena against the formidable Brock Lesnar, with stakes raised by Paul Heyman’s presence beside Lesnar. Cena entered amid a heartfelt moment, accompanied on stage by children dressed as his younger self, while Alicia Taylor formally introduced him. However, it was Paul Heyman who introduced Lesnar, rekindling the powerful alliance between the two, which had been tested days earlier on SmackDown.
The match itself began with relentless energy; Cena unleashed multiple Attitude Adjustments in succession, attempting to overcome Lesnar’s imposing power. Despite Cena’s resilience and three consecutive finishers, Lesnar’s dominance prevailed as he responded with a series of decisive F5 maneuvers, culminating in a clean pinfall victory. Lesnar extended his dominance post-match by incapacitating referee Dan Engler with another F5, leaving the official incapacitated in the ring.
Though defeated, Cena rose to salute the crowd, demonstrating his sportsmanship and connection with fans before making his exit.
Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar Rekindle Their Formidable Partnership
Following Lesnar’s emphatic win, the renewed bond between Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar became a focal point of the night, intensifying anticipation for future collaborations. Heyman, known for his influential role as Lesnar’s advocate, appeared to have fully reunited with the former UFC champion, signaling a possible resurgence of their dominant alliance in WWE storylines. This reunion serves as a compelling narrative development at a critical juncture as WWE establishes its new identity on ESPN.
WWE Debuts Updated “Then. Now. Forever. Together.” Signature Intro
In addition to the thrilling matches, WWE introduced a refreshed opening sequence titled “Then. Now. Forever. Together.” This signature video blends highlights from legendary performers and current stars alike. Icons such as Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, The Rock, and Bret Hart featured alongside contemporary names including Roman Reigns, Becky Lynch, and Cody Rhodes. This marks the first significant update to WWE’s opening presentation since WrestleMania 40, symbolizing the company’s ongoing legacy and evolving direction.
The introduction video, designed to unify different eras of WWE history, was met with enthusiasm from fans tuning in through ESPN’s platform, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to honoring its past while moving forward.
Rising Tension Builds Around WWE Women’s World Championship Contest
Amid the men’s division action, attention also turned to the women’s division, where Stephanie Vaquer shared her thoughts ahead of a key contest. Speaking on the Love Wrestling podcast, Vaquer praised her opponent IYO SKY and acknowledged the significance of the upcoming bout for the vacant WWE Women’s World Championship, which became open after Naomi relinquished the title. Vaquer expressed a mix of excitement and nerves about competing for such a prestigious championship, calling IYO SKY “one of the best.”
“Yeah, I know. To be honest, I’m a little nervous. (In a) Good way. I’m excited. I’m excited. It’s my dream. It’s the more important title and the more important company as my family, WWE. IYO Sky is amazing. She is one of the best. So I’m excited. I’m happy, and I try to enjoy that moment.” Stephanie Vaquer, WWE Wrestler
What Wrestlepalooza Means for WWE’s Future on ESPN
Wrestlepalooza represents a pivotal moment in WWE’s evolution, delivering electrifying battles and fresh narratives as the promotion embarks on a new broadcasting partnership with ESPN. Brock Lesnar’s decisive win over John Cena re-establishes him as a dominant force, especially with Paul Heyman by his side, hinting at renewed storylines that may drive upcoming WWE programming. The revamped “Then. Now. Forever. Together.” intro underscores WWE’s strategy to honor the past while embracing change, fostering both nostalgia and anticipation.
As WWE settles into ESPN’s direct-to-consumer service, fans can expect an intensified focus on marquee matches and key rivalries. Meanwhile, emerging rivalries like the women’s championship feud promise to bring additional drama and excitement. With major storylines already in motion and talent reunions underway, WWE’s future on ESPN looks primed for compelling storytelling and high-octane wrestling action.
Then. Now. Forever. Together.
Welcome to Wrestlepalooza. Welcome to ESPN.
Stream Wrestlepalooza RIGHT NOW on the @espn App ▶️: https://t.co/jKAIj8nxxt pic.twitter.com/LDR90qYXMd
— WWE (@WWE) September 20, 2025
