Things are looking up for the WWE, but no so much for the UFC if these latest reports are true.
Could WWE RAW be coming to FOX?
Picture new World Wrestling Entertainment star Rowdy Ronda Rousey strutting her stuff on Fox Broadcasting’s version of “Monday Night Raw.” It’s a distinct possibility with Fox Sports preparing a major push to take WWE TV rights away from USA Network, sources tell Sporting News.
The big question: what happens to Fox’s TV deal with the UFC, which expires this year. If Fox lands WWE, look for the network to likely end its relationship with the UFC, said sources.
“[Fox] is definitely trying to get [the WWE]. They’ll pass on UFC, then use ‘Raw’ for [Fox Broadcasting] and FS1 content,” said a source.
Both the WWE and UFC are seeking up to $400 million a year for their TV rights. But Fox is more likely to fork over that kind of money for WWE than for UFC said sources. Fox currently pays around $120 million a year for UFC TV rights.
The UFC met with ESPN, Turner Sports, CBS and NBC last year to try to drum up interest, according to John Ourand of SportsBusiness Journal. But none seemed interested in paying the $450 million annual average sought by Endeavor’s Ari Emanuel, who represents the UFC in TV negotiations.
UFC is more PPV driven, but to grow a sport you need to be on television.
We will see how this all plays out.