Here are highlights from WWE Chariman Vince McMahon and George Barrios’ investor conference call from Thursday:
– The company is not yet ready to release additional information regarding the launch of the WWE Network, but will have more details next quarter.
– WWE is currently working on 3 separate business models for the WWE network – basic distribution, a pay TV format (ie. HBO/Showtime) and a third “over-the-top” format.
– Monday Night Wars is expected to be one of the shows on the WWE Network.
– WWE has spent $5 million on production of ‘Legend’s House.’
– Due to the accounting method WWE is using to report its investment in Tout, WWE owns 20% or less than the social media service. The Tout app was downloaded over 30,000 times after the airing of WWE Raw and is now one of the top apps in the Apple App Store.
– WWE PPV revenue jumped approximately 30-35% over last year, partially due more people ordering the HD version of PPVs, which costs $10 more.
– Vince McMahon acknowledged that WWE went too far with “WWE PG” – and says the writing of WWE television has gotten much better in recent months.
– Vince said WWE is using YouTube for the comedy aspects of WWE programming and plans to use television for more drama and storytelling. Vince touted the potential of WWE’s Youtube shows – and WWE’s ability to spin them off into full shows eventually.
– “No Holds Barred” starring Hulk Hogan, which cost less than $100,000, is expected to make $300,000.
– Vince said WWE’s current stock price reflects their financial results of last year. WWE’s social media strength as well as learning from the mistakes of their movie division will help their bottom line and their stock price moving forward.
* Tons of Backstage WWE News You Won’t Read Anywhere Else