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.”
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WWE Moves SmackDown from FOX to USA Network
In a surprising announcement, WWE revealed that it will be ending its partnership with FOX and bringing SmackDown back to the USA Network. The five-year agreement, which will run from October 2024 until 2029, marks a significant shift in WWE’s television landscape.
The move comes as a shock to many fans who have grown accustomed to watching SmackDown on FOX. Since its debut on the network in 2019, SmackDown has enjoyed a prominent position in WWE’s programming lineup. However, it seems that WWE has decided to explore new opportunities and return to its roots on the USA Network.
As part of the deal, WWE will also have “four primetime specials per year” that will be shown on NBC. This move opens up exciting possibilities for WWE to reach a wider audience and expand its presence in the primetime slot.
While the announcement focuses on SmackDown’s move, it also hints at significant changes for WWE’s other flagship shows, Raw and NXT. Both shows’ rights are up next year with the USA Network, and it is expected that they will not be staying with the network. This news has sparked speculation about potential new homes for Raw and NXT, with discussions reportedly underway with various networks, streaming services, and even unexpected players.
The decision to switch networks is undoubtedly a strategic move by WWE. By exploring new partnerships and platforms, the company aims to maximize its reach and appeal to a broader audience. As the wrestling industry continues to evolve, WWE recognizes the importance of adapting and staying ahead of the curve.
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While the move of SmackDown from FOX to the USA Network may come as a surprise, it is a testament to WWE’s commitment to innovation and growth. As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, fans can expect more exciting changes and developments in the future.