WWE’s NXT Aims for Youth Appeal with CW Network Move

One big thing

WWE’s NXT is moving to the CW Network in October, kicking off with two road shows in an effort to attract younger viewers and boost popularity.

Why it matters

This move represents a significant shift for NXT, potentially expanding its audience and increasing its prominence within the WWE ecosystem.

The details

• NXT will debut on CW Network on October 1st at Chicago’s Allstate Arena, followed by a show in St. Louis on October 8th.

• The show will remain in its Tuesday night timeslot after the move.

• WWE is considering increasing the frequency of NXT shows outside the Performance Center.

• Plans include featuring more main roster talents as guest stars or potential regulars.

By the numbers

• 2: Number of confirmed road shows to kick off NXT’s CW Network era.

• 4: Years NXT has been on USA Network before this move.

What they’re saying

“WWE NXT is set to hit the road in celebration of its new home on the CW Network,” confirmed Shawn Michaels, WWE Hall of Famer and NXT’s creative lead.

The big picture

WWE’s strategy aims to:

• Elevate NXT’s prestige ahead of its move to broadcast TV.
• Attract younger audiences and introduce them to broader WWE programming.
• Strengthen NXT’s position and increase its visibility within the wrestling landscape.

What to watch

• How the new CW Network deal, which is reportedly more lucrative, will impact NXT’s production values and overall presentation.

• The potential presence of main roster stars like CM Punk in Chicago and Randy Orton in St. Louis at the debut shows.

Are you excited about NXT’s move to the CW Network? How do you think it will affect the show’s quality and audience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.