The FCC just within the last few weeks loosened the restrictions on one corporation owning several stations within the same market.

I didn't express myself very clearly. I was thinking that maybe some of the FOX affiliates in smaller non-UPN markets might broadcast Buffy outside of prime time -- say, at 7:00 or 11:00 p.m. (instead of old sitcom reruns).

And, yes, as clemente said, the FCC did relax restrictions on station ownership. In fact, the initial statement from the WB focussed on just that issue. You can read it here: http://www.thewb.com/news/buffystatement/

Let's just hope this switch won't affect the way the DVDs will be released in region 1. Then again I've already started on the region 2 discs and might finish out Buffy in that region unless some particularly nice region 1 bargain springs up..

Just for the record -- yeah, it sucks major ass that Buffy is leaving The WB (though everyone knew it would happen, I was thinking Fox would pick it up) -- especially for Angel -- but even though UPN has less affliates than The WB, their ratings last season were HIGHER overall than The WB's. Out of the seven (?) non-cable networks to offer primetime television, The WB was in last place, and UPN was right above them -- still it was several rating shares ahead. It's because they air the WWF stuff --- but still, as much as people make fun of UPN (yeah, I agree UPN is horrible) its performing better than The WB. The problem is, The WB's prime-audience is the same demographic as devout Buffy fans -- UPN's is not the same.

Angel is safe. Part of the buffy deal is that if Angel is cancelled by the WB, UPN will then pick it up.