Details On WWE Changes Planned For Smackdown & NXT On New Networks

WWE Smackdown and NXT debut on new networks tonight and next month respectively, and a new report has details on some changes planned for the shows. Fightful Select reports that Smackdown is expected to get a new theme song on the USA Network. The site reports that the word inside the company is that the theme would be from a “legit artist,” though exactly what that means isn’t clear. Smackdown used def rebel (featuring Supreme Madness) for the last few years and previously used AC/DC’s “Are You Ready” from 2019 through 2022.

It is also noted that Smackdown will have a bit more flexibility in terms of its end time. The show has gone off the air around 9:58 ET on FOX so it would not interfere with local news, but USA Network is more flexible even if Raw has not generally had overruns in years. USA Network is said to have sent out promotional packages for influencers and streamers, something that is common for show premieres.

In regards to NXT, the show is actually less likely to have overruns when it moves to The CW. NXT has regularly gone over the 10 PM timeslot on USA Network and that is likely to come to an end on The CW. The company has announced a stacked card for the NXT debut on The CW on October 1st and WWE sources believe they can do their highest numbers in about a year. The outlet also notes that Performance Center shows for NXT are expected to continue on.