WWE’s SmackDown Rights Fees Went Up Nearly 40% With New USA Network Deal

WWE surprised fans with their announcement that USA Network is going to get SmackDown back on their network every Friday night. That may also mean an end to their existing deals to host RAW and NXT, but WWE is still making a ton off the blue brand.

WWE’s existing programming rights for Raw, NXT, and SmackDown are set to expire next year. Currently, Raw and NXT enjoy broadcasting deals with the USA Network, while SmackDown finds its home on FOX.

In a recent announcement, WWE revealed their decision to part ways with FOX. Instead, they have secured a fresh five-year contract to relocate SmackDown back to the USA Network. This strategic move will come into effect in October 2024 and is set to maintain the blue brand’s presence on the network until 2029.

It’s worth noting that SmackDown was previously aired on the USA Network from 2016 to 2019 before transitioning to FOX.

While the specific financial details of this deal remain undisclosed, The Wall Street Journal has reported that insiders estimate its value at approximately $1.4 billion. This represents a substantial increase, approximately 40%, compared to WWE’s previous agreement with FOX.

In light of SmackDown’s anticipated return to the USA Network, it is unlikely that the network will choose to renew the rights for Raw and NXT, as per previous reports. Some industry insiders speculate that the cost of securing SmackDown’s broadcast rights on USA may be on par with, or even exceed, the rights for Raw and NXT.

WWE holds a streaming agreement with NBCUniversal’s Peacock streaming service, serving as the exclusive streaming platform for WWE’s content in the United States. This multi-year arrangement, valued at over $1 billion, was established in 2021. Interestingly, sources suggest that FOX did not aggressively pursue the retention of SmackDown in their programming lineup.

WWE is making a killing on SmackDown, and the next five years for the blue brand will be on USA Network. We’ll have to see what happens with NXT and RAW, but we know WWE is raking in the cash as they continue a long relationship with the USA Network.

What’s your take on WWE SmackDown moving back to USA Network? Sound off in the comments to let us know what you think!