WWE SummerSlam 2026 will look slightly different for fans watching in the United States, and according to Dave Meltzer, the change could reflect ESPN's concerns about its subscription performance. As previously reported by WNS, ESPN recently revealed its broadcast plans for this weekend's two night SummerSlam premium live event. Unlike previous WWE premium live events, the announcement made no mention of the opening hour airing on the linear ESPN television channels such as ESPN and ESPN2. He believes ESPN has determined that simulcasting the opening hour on traditional television reduces the number of fans signing up for ESPN Unlimited and watching through the ESPN App. Meltzer added that if ESPN were pleased with the current performance of WWE premium live events, there would be little reason to abandon the previous format.