FOX Chief Explains If Protections Are In Place If SmackDown Ratings Bomb

FOX Chief Charlie Collier recently had an interview with the Wrap in which he discussed SmackDown Live moving to Friday nights on his network.

FOX spent billions of dollars to acquire WWE’s blue brand, but many feel as though SmackDown will struggle to pull in the 3 million weekly viewers that FOX is reportedly demanding.

He was asked whether there were protections in place in case SmackDown’s ratings are lower than anticipated, and while he did not answer directly, he did give an insight into FOX’s attitude towards SmackDown Live.

“I’m a guy that came out of cable, and for the last few decades in cable, what’s driven the No. 1 network has been wrestling, and so for us to have a consistent presence is thrilling.

“In terms of protections– this is a company that historically really leaned into NFL at a time where I think no one thought Fox could do so, and they’ve turned out to become the leading purveyor of the NFL, and we’re leaning into WWE with just as much enthusiasm.”

He went on to say that the network does have a full five-year commitment with SmackDown Live and intends to keep it.

SmackDown debuts on FOX on Friday, October 4.