WWE is undergoing significant changes, both in its corporate structure and with its television partners. This could be good news for fans on the West Coast, as WWE has officially confirmed its decision to transition from FOX to the USA Network, a five-year agreement that cements the blue brand’s new home until 2029. Previously, SmackDown was broadcast on the USA Network from 2016 to 2019 before finding its new home on FOX. The shift is scheduled to take effect in October 2024, ensuring SmackDown will remain on the USA Network for the next five years.
According to Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio, one of the key changes in SmackDown’s scheduling is that it will be airing live on the West Coast for the first time ever. Meltzer stated that the show will be airing from 5 to 7 PM on the West Coast, with the exact broadcast day remaining undisclosed. Historically, SmackDown has been scheduled on both Tuesday and Thursday nights. This change marks a significant departure from the show’s traditional broadcast schedule.
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Additionally, there are rumors that WWE RAW might find a new home for its next television contract. With WWE’s television contracts set to expire, this could lead to significant changes for WWE fans. However, WWE isn’t expected to slow down, and fans can expect the company to continue pushing forward with its future plans.
This could be a busy year for pro wrestling news, and fans can expect to see updates and analysis right here. For now, fans on the West Coast will have to wait and see when SmackDown will start airing live, but there’s no denying that this change could be a significant boost for WWE’s West Coast fan base.
