It’s been two years since the Big 12 announced plans to play football, basketball, baseball, and women’s soccer in Mexico—none of which have come to fruition. But the Big 12 hasn’t abandoned its strategy: "I want this conference to be a global conference," Brett Yormark said.
THIS FALL #SmackDown and @Big12Conference team up for an unforgettable time! https://t.co/qVqpdlX5J7
WWE Smackdown coming to ASU's Mullett Arena as part of Big 12 partnership https://t.co/grvvOt1apF
The Big 12 Conference and WWE have expanded their partnership to include broadcasting Friday Night SmackDown from Big 12 markets on the eve of four conference football games during the 2025 season. This initiative will begin on August 22 in Dublin and will feature events at various Big 12 campuses, including Arizona State University's Mullett Arena. The collaboration aims to enhance the fan experience by combining collegiate football with WWE entertainment. Brett Yormark, involved with the Big 12, has reiterated the conference's ambition to become a global entity, continuing its strategy despite previous plans to hold games in Mexico not materializing.