In the constantly changing sports media environment, the blend of traditional TV and online streaming is introducing a new way for people to consume content. With more viewers opting for OTT platforms to watch sports, the industry is presented with a mix of challenges and opportunities.
The emergence of OTT platforms
The emergence of OTT platforms has disrupted the traditional sports broadcasting landscape, providing viewers with unparalleled choice and flexibility. Kligman, a sports media champion, emphasized the importance of this change. “The strength of OTT is its flexibility and content opportunities,” he said. This move represents a new era where control is in the hands of the audience and content creation and distribution has been democratized.
Anthem announced that former WWE Executive (VP of Global Digital & Integrated Sponsorship Sales) Rob Kligman has been named Chief Revenue Officer of Anthem Sports Group.
Kligman will report to Anthony Cicione, President of Anthem Sports Group.#TNAWrestling #TNA pic.twitter.com/vhGJCnuYLI
— TNA Updates (@TNAUpdates_) June 17, 2024
Content creation democracy
This democratization opens the door for new players to compete with the established giants, thereby fostering diversity and dynamism in the media landscape. Former WWE Vice President of Digital Marketing and Sponsors, Kligman, said it best: “OTT is not the end goal; we are looking for distribution efforts that combine OTT and broadcast to reach a wider audience.”
WWE’s Breakthrough Netflix Deal
Kligman celebrates WWE’s new partnership with Netflix, sharing strategic insights and the impact of this important partnership. “Closing the first advertising and endorsement deal for a Netflix show was an accomplishment,” he recalls. This move paves the way for billions of dollars that WWE content can reach a new global audience.
It’s the job of a big WWE star
Kligman praised the work of big WWE stars like Dwayne, The Rock, Johnson and others in this relationship. “We released two movies, one of which featured The Rock,” he explained. Incorporating these stories into the WWE storyline shows the power of sponsorship and increases WWE’s appeal to the streaming world.
Challenges in the OTT landscape
While the OTT revolution offers great potential, it also presents a unique challenge, namely audience fragmentation. Audiences span multiple platforms and devices. Kligman knows this and emphasizes strategic content distribution to attract and retain viewers. “OTT provides access that was unthinkable 15-20 years ago,” he said. The focus remains on engaging your audience no matter where they are.
A report from PWInsider states that the belief in the #TNAWrestling locker room is that the company is experiencing positive momentum after Against All Odds, with Hardy’s return and the recent hiring of former WWE executive Rob Kligman as the Chief Revenue Officer for Anthem… pic.twitter.com/4hKsc5fJne
— Covalent TV (@TheCovalentTV) June 19, 2024
Chances for creators of content
Despite facing difficulties, there are numerous chances for content creators and distributors in the OTT landscape. Benefits include customizing content, utilizing data analytics for personalized ads, and testing out innovative formats. Kligman thinks that for sports news to survive in the digital era, it is essential to seize these chances and adjust to evolving audience requirements. “He explained that individuals desire to consume content according to their preferences, whether on mobile devices, tablets, or game consoles.” Celebrities such as Dwayne Johnson’s presence solidifies WWE’s importance in a diverse media environment.
The outlook for sports media in the upcoming years
Looking forward, the future of sports media is filled with uncertainty and excitement. Kligman imagines a nation where producing valuable and captivating content is crucial because “content is king.” Staying up-to-date with new technologies, trying out creative formats, and continuously adapting to meet audience demands are crucial in remaining ahead of the game. The WWE subsidiary, with The Rock as its representative, will lead the way in sports entertainment, poised to capitalize on new trends.
