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What’s the story?
According to a report on L.A. Biz, WWE may potentially shift television networks after its current contract with NBC runs out.
WWE executives have reportedly held informal talks with several other networks, including FOX, CBS, Disney, as well as digital companies, YouTube and Amazon.
In case you didn’t know…
The WWE’s current contract with NBC runs out in the spring of 2019.
Although the promotion is reportedly on good business terms with NBC, the WWE higher-ups are now looking to get the most out of their next big deal and are scouting other networks for the same.
Trade pundits in the world of sports and entertainment have asserted that the UFC—one of WWE’s biggest rivals—is looking for a new deal as well, since its current contract with FOX runs out next year.
Although the UFC’s parent company WME-IMG shares a great working relationship with the FOX Network, their asking price seems to be too high, as compared to FOX and most others’ offer in return for rights to use UFC content.
The heart of the matter
That in turn, may result in WWE signing a contract with the FOX Network, owing to the fact that FOX views WWE programming as a suitable replacement in case they lose their UFC deal.
It’s being noted that FOX Sports President, Eric Shanks, and other Fox executives met up with WWE’s Chief Strategy and Financial Officer George Barrios and the Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events and Creative Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque in Los Angeles earlier this year.
Furthermore, WWE as part of its road show also showcased the allure and presentation of their programming to other networks such as Disney, CBS, and digital companies such as YouTube and Amazon.
What’s next?
The WWE will reportedly garner $180 million from its deal with NBC this year.
Sportskeeda will keep fans updated on the status of WWE’s ongoing negotiations with America’s biggest networks.
Author’s take
This is a huge, HUGE deal not only for the WWE, but for the entire professional wrestling industry as a whole!
The WWE earns a ton of money from its network deals. Bigger things await the WWE and this sport in the future, and we support the WWE every step of the way.
