Topps and WWE have officially rekindled their long-standing partnership.
In an exciting announcement today, WWE revealed that Topps will once again produce officially licensed trading cards featuring WWE Superstars. This marks the return of a relationship that dates back to 2005, when Topps was first named the official trading card partner for WWE. The collaboration lasted until 2021 before the two companies parted ways.
“𝗜𝗧’𝗦 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Topps and WWE are back together with a new long-term trading card deal,” WWE confirmed in a statement.
The break in the partnership began in 2021 when WWE signed a deal with Panini, naming the company its new trading card partner. This agreement, which was meant to last until 2026, faced turbulence after WWE attempted to end the contract in August 2023. WWE claimed that Panini had not fulfilled its obligations by failing to produce the required physical and digital trading cards. Panini disputed these allegations, and after months of negotiation, the two parties reached a settlement in November 2023. The terms of that settlement remain undisclosed, although WWE products continue to be available on Panini’s website.
The turn of events followed a major acquisition by Fanatics, which bought Topps in January 2022. Just two months later, WWE and Fanatics announced a broader partnership that would not only enhance the fan experience through merchandise and e-commerce but also expand into digital realms, including trading cards and NFTs.
With this new deal, Topps is set to once again become the official producer of WWE trading cards, bringing a familiar and trusted brand back to the ring. Fans can look forward to a refreshed collection of physical and digital trading cards, along with other fan-centric initiatives.
