WWE announced today that they will be leaving FOX with SmackDown as they have signed a five-year agreement to bring SmackDown back to the USA Network from October 2024 until 2029.
Additionally, WWE will have “four primetime specials per year” to be shown on NBC. WWE Raw and NXT’s rights are up next year with the USA Network. It’s expected that Raw and NXT will not be staying with the USA Network.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, “While the new deal will bring WWE to NBC primetime and SmackDown to USA on Friday nights, it will also mean the end of Raw and NXT on USA.”
The discussions for Raw’s rights are “extremely active” with “traditional linear networks, streaming services and ‘unexpected players’ all interested.”
You can keep up with all your wrestling news right here on eWrestlingNews.com. Or, you can follow us over on our Twitter and Facebook pages.
WWE Announces SmackDown’s Return to USA Network and the Future of Raw and NXT
In a recent announcement, WWE revealed that they will be parting ways with FOX and bringing SmackDown back to the USA Network. This five-year agreement is set to begin in October 2024 and will continue until 2029. Alongside this move, WWE has also secured a deal with NBC for “four primetime specials per year.”
The decision to move SmackDown from FOX to USA Network marks a significant shift in WWE’s television partnerships. SmackDown originally aired on USA Network before moving to FOX in 2019. This return to USA Network is expected to provide new opportunities for the show and its viewers.
However, this change also means that WWE Raw and NXT will no longer be airing on the USA Network. The rights for these shows are set to expire next year, and it is anticipated that they will find new homes elsewhere. The discussions for Raw’s rights are described as “extremely active,” with various networks, streaming services, and even unexpected players expressing interest.
This shift in WWE’s television landscape reflects the ever-evolving nature of the entertainment industry. With the rise of streaming services and the changing preferences of viewers, WWE is exploring different avenues to reach its audience effectively. By diversifying their partnerships, WWE can tap into new markets and potentially attract a broader fan base.
For fans of professional wrestling, staying updated on all the latest news is crucial. Websites like eWrestlingNews.com provide a comprehensive source for wrestling news, including updates on WWE’s television deals. Additionally, fans can follow eWrestlingNews on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook to receive real-time updates and engage with other wrestling enthusiasts.
As WWE continues to navigate the ever-changing media landscape, fans can expect more exciting developments in the future. The company’s ability to adapt and explore new opportunities ensures that wrestling fans will have plenty to look forward to. Whether it’s the return of SmackDown to USA Network or the search for new homes for Raw and NXT, the world of professional wrestling is sure to keep fans on their toes.