WWE and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) have announced a new, long-term strategic partnership, bringing together two of the world’s most iconic sports and entertainment organizations. The agreement, confirmed on Wednesday, is designed to expand WWE’s footprint in the crucial Canadian market and create authentic, crossover experiences for fans. This major WWE MLSE Strategic Partnership promises to explore opportunities across multiple facets of both businesses, including content and merchandise.
The new deal covers several key areas, most notably exclusive merchandise collaboration Building on the success of licensed WWE Legacy Title Belts featuring the Toronto Maple Leafs and Raptors branding. Furthermore, the WWE MLSE Strategic Partnership will focus on original content development, community programs, and regular cross-brand appearances featuring MLSE team players and WWE Superstars. This ensures a consistent blend of wrestling and traditional sports promotion.
As an immediate result of the agreement, Monday Night Raw will return to MLSE’s Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on Monday, January 26, 2026, marking a major live event that will air globally on Netflix. The cross-promotion kicks off that weekend, with WWE Superstars slated to appear at Toronto Maple Leafs games, and MLSE sports personalities attending the live Raw broadcast.
Alex Varga, Co-Head of Revenue at WWE, called the WWE MLSE Strategic Partnership a “natural extension” of WWE’s commitment to Toronto, which has recently hosted premium live events like Money in the Bank and Elimination Chamber. By aligning with MLSE, which owns the Maple Leafs and Raptors, WWE reinforces its dedication to the region and its goal of creating engaging, long-term content and product integration.
