Update on WWE’s TV Deal – A Deal is Almost Complete

According to Variety, a new deal between WWE and NBC Universal has not been completed. A deal is said to be close and it could be announced today during the NBC Universal cable upfronts presentation. The deal would see Raw stay on USA and Smackdown stay on Syfy.

Word is that negotiations hadn’t been completed as soon as WWE initially expected due to the two sides negotiating over digital rights. This means that they are discussing how long of a window was fair between when TV episodes air on NBC Universal networks before airing on the WWE Network.

Financial details of the deal have not yet been disclosed, but analysts on Wall Street believe WWE has been able to double the licensing fees for its shows. WWE earned $160.9 million during 2013 for their broadcast rights with NBC Universal for Raw and Smackdown. That means WWE is potentially looking at a deal worth approximately $320 million.