SmackDown on FOX in Question as Network Cuts Wrestling Podcast

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The future of WWE SmackDown on the FOX network appears uncertain as a report suggests that FOX may not be keen on renewing the Friday night wrestling show when the current deal expires.

Recent eyebrow-raising developments hint at FOX's waning interest in extending their partnership with WWE SmackDown for another five years.

According to details outlined in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, FOX's decision to cancel the "Out of Character with Ryan Satin" podcast serves as a clear indicator of their shifting stance on wrestling programming. The podcast featured appearances from main roster and NXT superstars and had run for a total of 126 episodes.

Despite SmackDown consistently delivering strong ratings for FOX, it is believed that the current financial terms of the deal might not be favorable for the network. WWE currently receives $205 million per year under the existing contract and is reportedly seeking an increase to $310 million per year for the next cycle. It's worth noting that advertising rates for SmackDown tend to be lower compared to other network programming due to certain stigmas associated with wrestling and its fanbase.

"FOX has canceled its “Out of Character” WWE podcast.” Some see that as another sign that Smackdown will be moving from FOX at the end of the current contract. Analysts have believed that for some time, that even with the ratings the show delivers that it isn’t cost-effective, especially if WWE wants the $205 million per year deal to increase to $310 million. Still, the show wins the night almost every week of late and numbers are gaining so they could change the outcome of that. It also does lower ad rates than the other network programming on Friday because of the stigma of wrestling and wrestling fans to network advertisers

The decision by FOX to cancel "Out of Character" will fuel speculations that SmackDown may be exploring new broadcast options when the current contract concludes. When FOX announced its 2023-34 TV lineup, SmackDown was not included in it. WWE was simply not mentioned at all in its press release touting its Fall schedule. While Raw and NXT are expected to continue airing on the USA Network, SmackDown might need to find itself a new home."