NBC Fails To Meet WWE's Deadline For New TV Deal

As noted, NBC Universal's exclusive negotiating period with WWE expired last Friday. According to Raj Giri of WrestlingINC.com, WWE and NBCU were unable to reach a deal. WWE will now shop their programming to other networks. WWE could still sign a deal with NBCU as NBCU has the right to match any offer that WWE receives from other networks. RAW and SmackDown will continue to air on USA and Syfy until September 30th, regardless of who WWE goes with. WWE issued the following statement to Giri:


"WWE's exclusive negotiating period with NBCU for our flagship television programs, Raw and SmackDown, has now expired. While we were unable to reach an agreement with NBCU during this period, we have certainly appreciated our long and productive partnership. With year-round, live programming that is highly coveted by programmers, distributors and advertisers, we are extremely excited about our future. We look forward to engaging with potential partners who recognize the value of having the No. 1 show on cable and live content delivered 52 weeks a year."

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