Paramount Global-Skydance Media Merger FCC Approval
Media Movers: Newsmax Challenges Ownership Caps, Fox Nation Scores Second Sports Deal
In the fast-paced world of media, important shifts are always on the horizon. This week, we’re diving into a major regulatory challenge from Newsmax and an exciting new sports venture for Fox Nation.
Newsmax Objects to FCC’s Potential Ownership Cap Revisions
conservative-leaning news network Newsmax has officially thrown its hat into the ring, filing an objection with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) this Wednesday. The core of their concern? any move that could weaken or eliminate the long-standing Horizontal Ownership Cap.This filing comes in direct response to the FCC’s public notice issued in June, which invited commentary on whether to keep, revise, or scrap the cap altogether.
Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy articulated the network’s stance in the filing, emphasizing the potential impact on local programming. ”If networks like CBS, ABC, and NBC were allowed to expand their reach unchecked,” Ruddy stated, “they would have even less incentive to produce programming that reflects the values of local communities, particularly those in America’s heartland.” This move signals a strong defence of the current regulatory framework by Newsmax, highlighting a desire to maintain a diverse media landscape that serves local interests.
Fox Nation Scores Exclusive Broadcast Rights for New Wrestling League
On the sports front, Fox Nation is making waves with its second live sports deal. the streaming service has become the exclusive broadcast partner for the inaugural matches of the newly formed wrestling league, Real American Freestyle (RAF). This partnership marks a significant expansion for Fox Nation into the live sports arena.
The first RAF matchup is slated to stream live on Saturday, august 30th, from Cleveland. Real American Freestyle was co-founded by wrestling industry veterans Eric Bischoff and Chad Bronstein, alongside WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan. Tragically, Hulk Hogan passed away on Thursday, July 24th, at the age of 71, adding a poignant layer to the launch of this new venture. This deal underscores Fox Nation’s commitment to diversifying its content offerings and tapping into passionate fan bases.
