Finally, WWE’s SmackDown has come back (or will be coming back, rather) to its former home as it returns to the USA Network in October following the end of its five-year stint with FOX.
The WWE’s latest move is part of a new five-year agreement valued at $1.4 billion. It’s a return to familiar territory as well.SmackDown previously aired on the USA Network for three years from 2016 to 2019. But perhaps the biggest piece of news is with its scheduling.
Despite speculation and discussions within the industry, it has been reported that WWE plans to maintain SmackDown’s Friday night slot, continuing the tradition of Friday Night SmackDown.
The decision to keep SmackDown on Friday nights has raised eyebrows. Many question the strategic value for the USA Network. Dave Meltzer, speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, highlighted that while nothing is officially set in stone, conversations with WWE insiders indicate a strong inclination towards preserving the show’s current schedule.
Nevertheless, this move highlights WWE’s commitment to consistency and the audience expectations despite potential reservations.
This transition is part of a broader strategic shift for WWE’s broadcasting arrangements. Earlier this year, it signed a groundbreaking $5 billion deal with Netflix.
WWE’s ground-breaking deal will see Monday Night Raw transitioning to the streaming platform in the United States from January, Netflix’s breakout foray into live wrestling broadcasts. This shift not only ends Raw’s 31-year history on network television but also positions WWE’s content on a global scale, with SmackDown, NXT, and Premium Live Events set to be available on Netflix internationally.
WWE’s ability to secure lucrative deals with NBCUniversal and Netflix highlights the enduring appeal and commercial viability of its programming, which are positive signs for a company fresh off a merger and still dealing with the controversies surrounding Vince McMahon.
Ultimately, WWE’s decision to continue airing SmackDown on a Friday helps preserve the show’s identity and supports audience retention, crucial factors in the competitive entertainment industry.
The WWE will host its first post-merger WrestleMania in April. Cody Rhodes is expected to complete his story and win the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. But The Rock’s return is complicating things and we might see more twists to The Bloodline storyline within the coming weeks.
