WWE and ESPN’s groundbreaking $325 million-a-year streaming deal has sparked major reactions across the sports and entertainment world, but none have stood out more than Pat McAfee’s. The outspoken WWE commentator and ESPN personality had plenty to say in a viral post on X, blending celebration with sharp criticism of ESPN leadership.

McAfee kicked things off with praise for the deal, writing, “Congrats to the @WWE and @espn on getting a historic PLE deal done. Great to see 2 powerhouses of sports and entertainment come together. Cheers to the future 🍻.” He attached a GIF from The Blues Brothers to highlight his excitement.

But the post quickly turned pointed, with McAfee taking aim at the ESPN executives he has long been at odds with. “I assume all the mid level, powerless, bum ass suits at ESPN will attempt to muddy this somehow (out of context leaks/ignorant anonymous opinions/etc.)…”

He then added, “But, in the end… this agreement will outlive the dinosaurs currently guarding desks in Bristol and this deal will be great for ESPN.”

McAfee’s criticism was not random. He has a public and ongoing feud with Norby Williamson, ESPN’s Executive Editor and Head of Event and Studio Production. McAfee has accused Williamson of leaking negative viewership data about The Pat McAfee Show and trying to sabotage it internally. He has also labeled ESPN’s inner workings as outdated and stifling.

What makes McAfee’s reaction especially significant is his position at the intersection of both companies. As a current WWE on-air personality and an ESPN show host, he brings a unique perspective to the table. From calling matches on SmackDown and performing at WrestleMania to interviewing top figures from both worlds on his own platform, McAfee’s reach gives his opinion added weight.

Even while lashing out at certain ESPN executives, McAfee closed by reinforcing his belief in the value of the deal: “This deal will outlive the dinosaurs… and it will be great for ESPN.”

Congrats to the @WWE and @espn on getting a historic PLE deal done.

Great to see 2 powerhouses of sports and entertainment come together.

I assume all the mid level, powerless, bum ass suits at ESPN will attempt to muddy this somehow (out of context leaks/ignorant anonymous… pic.twitter.com/vFbjHTtktL

, Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) August 6, 2025