The key to the deal was that Fox upgraded its affiliate stations in several markets .
In the spring of 1994 , months after completing the NFL contract , Fox agreed to purchase a 20 percent stake in New World Communications in a multimillion - dollar deal .
The key to the deal was that Fox upgraded Fox 's affiliate stations in several markets .
In the spring of 1994 , months after completing the NFL contract , Fox agreed to purchase a 20 percent stake in New World Communications in a multimillion - dollar deal .