ESPN, WWE Expand Partnership for CFP Fan Experiences

ESPN and WWE announced an expansion of their partnership on Thursday, bringing wrestling-themed fan experiences to the College Football Playoff in Miami. The collaboration introduces a custom College Football Playoff National Championship belt, set to debut during a semifinal game this week.

The one-of-a-kind belt, designed specifically for the event, incorporates elements inspired by host city Miami, including the outline of Hard Rock Stadium and palm trees. It also features College Football motifs and 136 diamonds, each representing a Division I Football Bowl Subdivision program. WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella will showcase the belt on the sideline during Thursday's semifinal matchup between Miami and Ole Miss at the VRBO Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona. The game, which airs on ESPN, marks the first public appearance of the custom title.

Fans will have hands-on opportunities to engage with the partnership during a free activation event at the Miami Beach Convention Center from January 16 to 18, as part of Playoff Fan Central leading into the national championship. Attendees can pose for photos with the belt and participate in a themed entrance experience, where they create...