WWE SmackDown will continue broadcasting live on the USA Network and remain available for streaming on Peacock, unaffected by <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE’s new Premium Live Events (PLEs) deal with ESPN announced recently. This update confirms that while WWE PLEs are moving to ESPN platforms in 2026, SmackDown’s television and streaming arrangements will remain unchanged through 2029.
Details of the WWE Premium Live Events Shift to ESPN
Beginning in 2026, WWE’s Premium Live Events, which have been streamed live and on demand exclusively on Peacock since 2021, will transition to ESPN under a new five-year contract. The deal reportedly involves ESPN paying approximately $325 million annually to air ten PLEs each year until 2031, surpassing the previous arrangement where Peacock paid an average of $180 million per year.
Current Arrangements for SmackDown and Streaming Platforms
Since September 2024, WWE SmackDown episodes have aired on the USA Network and streamed on Peacock, both owned by Comcast. According to sources cited by CNBC, SmackDown’s presence on USA and Peacock will continue unaffected by the new ESPN deal centered on premium events. The current contract for SmackDown on these platforms runs through 2029, ensuring stability for the weekly show amid the larger shift in WWE’s digital content strategy.
Implications of the ESPN Deal on WWE’s Media Landscape
This new ESPN agreement signals a significant shift in WWE‘s distribution of premium wrestling content, increasing exposure on a major sports network and reflecting evolving media consumption trends. However, by maintaining SmackDown on USA Network, WWE preserves its traditional weekly television presence while expanding its live event offerings via ESPN’s platform. This dual-platform approach is expected to broaden WWE’s audience reach while positioning ESPN as a key player in premium wrestling events for the foreseeable future.
