Why FOX didn’t renew WWE TV deal?

The real reason explaining what went wrong between WWE and FOX revealed, as SmackDown plans to move to USA Network.

Why FOX didn’t renew WWE TV deal?

WWE on FOX (via X)

It was heavily rumored earlier this year, that SmackDown will be moving away from FOX. It was a shocker for the fans to learn that the Blue Brand will not be a part of the FOX media network in 2024. Now, a new report suggests the actual reason for what went wrong between WWE and FOX.

During FOX’s earning quarter conference call for Q1 2024, the CEO of FOX, Lachlan Murdoch, revealed the reason for not renewing the deal with WWE. He stated that they are not meeting the expected advertisement numbers.

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We were not hitting the advertising numbers due to the audience of the WWE to make…to return for our return on investment to be above the levels that we would accept. But also, we didn’t attribute enough significant retransmission revenue to the WWE either.
Lachlan Murdoch on FOX-WWE deal

WWE’s flagship show, SmackDown, is all set to move from the FOX network in 2024. It will mark the end of a four-year partnership between the companies. WWE first appeared on FOX in 2019. However, due to underlying issues, FOX decided to cancel their deal with the Stamford-based company.

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SmackDown will be moving to the USA Network later in 2024. It resided on the same network from 2016 to 2019. WWE CEO Nick Khan has expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm to sign with a new network and will be positively looking forward to working with the USA Network.

WWE’s Smackdown to move from FOX to USA network in new rights deal

WWE is all set to move the Blue Brand to the USA Network next year. It had previously aired on the USA Network from 2016 to 2019 and had several network homes before that. Moreover, WWE CEO, Nick Khan had some kind words to say about this new deal.

WWE SmackDown
WWE SmackDown (via X)

Nick Khan, via Variety, expressed his privilege to work with NBCUniversal. He stated that he looks forward to working with NBC, as they will be broadcasting weekly shows along with special documentaries for the network.

NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades, we are excited to extend this longstanding relationship by bringing ‘SmackDown’ to USA Network on Friday nights and look forward to debuting multiple WWE special events annually on NBC.
Nick Khan on deal with USA Network

Khan also talked about how NBC’s Peacock has been the platform for WWE to stream its shows and premium live events since 2021. It will be interesting to see the changes that will be made by the USA Network when they acquire SmackDown next year, as it is the home for superstars like Roman Reigns, Kevin Owens, and AJ Styles.

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