**UPDATE**
Dave Meltzer now reports that NXT's deal with USA is worth $30 million to $50 million annually over two years.
**ORIGINAL**
WWE making more money in rights fees.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer reports that WWE is getting a minimum of $50 million per year in rights fees with NXT moving to USA Network. Meltzer reports that the number could be more than $50 million, but that is the "bottom" number. WWE is set to make an estimated $265 million per year with Raw on the USA Network and $205 million per year with SmackDown on FOX
In the press release announcing NXT's move to USA Network, Vince McMahon stated that the goal was to make NXT as profitable as Raw and SmackDown.
“The move to USA Network provides an opportunity to deepen our relationship with NBCUniversal and further build the NXT brand,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman & CEO. “Over the long term, our goal is to develop a following that can be monetized to the same level as our flagship programs, Raw and SmackDown.”
Meltzer goes on to report that Vince is "not expected" to be at the NXT shows. Vince has reportedly been missing more Raw and SmackDown tapings lately, including last night's Raw. Fightful and Pro Wrestling Sheet report that the NXT product will remain the same despite moving networks.
You can view the entire NXT to USA press release by clicking here. And check out how various WWE and NXT stars reacted to the news by clicking here.
