USA Network Reportedly Unhappy with WWE NXT Taping Changes

USA Network executives are reportedly unhappy that WWE could potentially be returning NXT to a taped format.

Reports in recent weeks have indicated that huge changes are coming to NXT. Following WWE's decision to release 13 names from the black-and-gold brand a couple of weeks ago, further reports have suggested that WWE are eager to turn NXT back into a developmental system, complete with a change in aesthetics for the show.

It has been noted that WWE are preparing to pre-tape three episodes of NXT next week, following NXT TakeOver 36, rather than presenting them live on Tuesday evenings as they have done since October 2019. 

While there has been no formal word from the promotion as to whether this is a permanent shift in production or a one-off, Andrew Zarian of the Mat Men Podcast is reporting that USA Network - who carry NXT - are unhappy with the move from live television. 

Zarian notes he has spoken to a source at USA Network, who says: "A taped show is not what we paid for."

In a follow-up tweet, Zarian noted that he hadn't been told if NXT would be taping shows permanently going forward, but that was the reaction when he asked about the rumour.