WWE announced last year that they would be departing from Fox and bringing SmackDown back to the USA Network in October 2024 after striking a new agreement with NBCUniversal for the show’s rights.
This deal will be in effect until 2029. From 2016 to 2019, SmackDown aired on the USA Network.
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE plans to keep airing SmackDown on Friday nights even after the transition to USA.
WWE’s SmackDown Returns to USA Network in 2024
In a surprising move, WWE announced last year that they would be ending their partnership with Fox and bringing their popular show, SmackDown, back to the USA Network. This decision came after striking a new agreement with NBCUniversal for the rights to air the show. The transition is set to take place in October 2024 and will be in effect until 2029.
SmackDown, one of WWE’s flagship shows, has had a long and storied history. From 2016 to 2019, it aired on the USA Network before moving to Fox. However, after just a few years on Fox, WWE has decided to return to their previous home.
The move back to the USA Network is seen as a strategic decision by WWE. While Fox provided a larger platform and broader reach, the USA Network offers several advantages. One of the main reasons for the switch is the synergy between WWE and the USA Network. The network has been a long-time partner of WWE, airing various wrestling programs over the years. Bringing SmackDown back to the USA Network allows for continued collaboration and a seamless integration of WWE content into the network’s programming.
Another significant factor in WWE’s decision is the time slot. According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE plans to keep airing SmackDown on Friday nights even after the transition to USA. Friday nights have traditionally been a popular time for wrestling fans, and WWE aims to maintain that viewership by sticking to the familiar schedule.
The move back to the USA Network also brings about financial benefits for WWE. While the exact details of the new agreement with NBCUniversal have not been disclosed, it is believed that WWE secured a lucrative deal. This deal not only includes the rights to air SmackDown but also provides additional opportunities for cross-promotion and collaboration between WWE and other NBCUniversal properties.
Overall, WWE’s decision to bring SmackDown back to the USA Network marks a significant shift in their broadcasting strategy. While the move away from Fox may have surprised some, it appears to be a calculated decision aimed at maximizing the potential of their partnership with NBCUniversal. With the transition set to take place in October 2024, wrestling fans can look forward to seeing their favorite superstars back on the USA Network’s screens, continuing the legacy of SmackDown.