WWE TV Rights Negotiations

[HafDawg2003]

For the first time ever, the WWE has timed their contracts so that ALL their media properties are available at the same time.

For example, RAW used to be on a different contract schedule than Smackdown.

Now all the WWE properties (RAW, Smackdown, Main Event, Superstars, NXT, Total Divas, etc.) are up for bid, likely as one total package (and I don't mean Lex Luger).

WWE: Analysing The 5 Networks WWE Is Negotiating TV Rights With

Where do you think the WWE (particularly RAW) winds up? USA? SpikeTV? Fox Sports 1?

[redsfan28]

It doesn't make sense for FS1 if they are TRULY going to try to compete with ESPN. I think, if they're smart, SpikeTV jumps at the chance to dump the dumpster fire known as TNA and fix the mistake they made by allowing the E to go back to USA.

[Witlon]

It makes perfect sense for FS1, IMO. Raw is a high ratings grabber, and they can hold their own, to an extent, against Monday Night Football.

Smackdown can get dumped to the Network, and they can run some specials on FX/FXX/Fox if they need to fill time.

Hell, ESPN signed a deal to cover some WWE, so maybe they may get involved and throw something on ESPN2/ESPNews.

[HafDawg2003]

FS1 has to get viewers, by any means necessary. And then the men who watch that can see promos for all the things Fox Sports 1 has, like NASCAR etc

[Slyder]

It makes sense for Fox Sports, I don't see how it goes to anyone but a USA or SpikeTV type station.

[HafDawg2003]

The fact that Turner would be interested at all really surprises me.