WWE ‘SmackDown’ Leaving Fox for USA Next Year, as ‘Raw’ Hits the Market
The world of professional wrestling is undergoing a seismic shift as WWE ‘SmackDown,’ one of the company’s flagship shows, prepares to make a move from Fox to USA Network in the coming year. This significant transition comes on the heels of another major development: the sale of WWE’s other flagship show, ‘Raw,’ as it seeks a new broadcast home. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of these moves and explore the implications for both WWE and its legions of fans.
The ‘SmackDown’ Shift
WWE ‘SmackDown’ has enjoyed a successful run on Fox since its debut in October 2019. The show’s move to network television marked a significant milestone for WWE, bringing the world of professional wrestling into the mainstream. The partnership with Fox allowed ‘SmackDown’ to reach a broader audience and provided a platform for WWE’s top stars.
However, WWE recently announced that ‘SmackDown’ will be leaving Fox and returning to the USA Network in October of the following year. The move marks a homecoming of sorts, as ‘SmackDown’ had aired on the USA Network for nearly two decades before its move to Fox.
Reasons for the Move
Several factors likely contributed to WWE’s decision to relocate ‘SmackDown’ to the USA Network. One of the primary considerations is scheduling. Fox, as a major network, has a stringent programming schedule, which sometimes led to preemptions or delays in ‘SmackDown’ broadcasts. By returning to the USA Network, WWE may have more flexibility in scheduling and programming.
Additionally, WWE might see this move as a way to strengthen its relationship with NBCUniversal, which owns the USA Network. The company has a long-standing partnership with NBCUniversal for its ‘Raw’ brand, and this move could help consolidate WWE’s presence within the network.
The ‘Raw’ Sale
While ‘SmackDown’ is on the move, WWE’s other flagship show, ‘Raw,’ is up for sale. This development has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, as ‘Raw’ has been a staple on cable television for nearly three decades. The show’s availability on the market opens up a world of possibilities for potential buyers, from established networks to streaming platforms looking to enter the sports entertainment arena.
It’s important to note that WWE is not selling ‘Raw’ because of declining viewership or interest. ‘Raw’ remains one of the most-watched programs in cable television. Instead, this move could be part of WWE’s broader strategy to maximize its broadcasting rights deals and explore new opportunities for content distribution.
Implications for WWE&Wrestling Fans
The moves involving ‘SmackDown’ and ‘Raw’ have both short-term and long-term implications for WWE and its fans. The return of ‘SmackDown’ to the USA Network could provide a sense of continuity for viewers who have followed the show for years. It may also open up potential crossover opportunities between ‘Raw’ and ‘SmackDown’ stars, as both shows will now be part of the same network.
As for ‘Raw,’ its sale represents a significant moment of uncertainty. Wrestling fans and industry insiders will be closely watching to see which network or streaming platform acquires the broadcast rights. This decision could reshape the landscape of professional wrestling and determine how fans access WWE content in the future.
Conclusion
The WWE ‘SmackDown’ move from Fox to USA Network and the sale of ‘Raw’ are monumental shifts in the world of professional wrestling. These developments underscore the ever-evolving nature of the entertainment industry, as well as WWE’s commitment to adapting to changing trends and maximizing its reach. Wrestling fans worldwide will be eagerly anticipating how these changes will impact their favorite shows and the future of sports entertainment.
