WWE has announced a rescheduling of its January 2026 live event dates involving its flagship programs Monday Night RAW and Friday Night SmackDown, impacting two key shows in New York state. Initially planned to air SmackDown at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on January 2 and RAW at Buffalo’s KeyBank Center on January 5, WWE has now swapped these dates and locations. SmackDown will take place in Buffalo on January 2, 2026, while RAW will headline the Barclays Center on January 5, 2026[1][5].
Details of the Date and Venue Swap
The original schedule featured:
- January 2, 2026: SmackDown at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
- January 5, 2026: RAW at KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
Following the swap, the updated schedule will be:
- January 2, 2026: SmackDown at KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
- January 5, 2026: RAW at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
Fans who had purchased tickets for the original shows at either venue will be eligible to receive refunds or exchange options depending on availability and preference[1][2][5].
Context Within WWE’s 2025-26 Holiday Tour
This change is part of WWE’s broader Holiday Tour spanning December 2025 through early January 2026, a run comprising 17 live events across North America and Europe. The tour includes various stops at well-known venues such as the Kia Center in Orlando, the Mohegan Arena in Wilkes-Barre, and international locations like the PSD Bank Dome in Düsseldorf and OVO Arena Wembley in London[3][4].
Tickets for this Holiday Tour went on pre-sale in late October 2025, with the official general sale opening shortly after. WWE has emphasized that the reconfigured dates and venues ensure fans in both New York cities still get premium WWE content, simply featuring a different brand than originally advertised.
Reasons Behind the Swap: Backstage Insights
According to sources close to WWE management, the date switch was prompted by logistical considerations and strategic marketing plans intended to maximize crowd attendance and viewership ratings during the post-holiday period. One insider explained:
“WWE wants to capitalize on the Brooklyn market for Monday Night RAW, which normally draws larger crowds and TV ratings. This shift allows them to better position headline talent and create buzz leading into early 2026. Meanwhile, Buffalo’s passionate fan base for SmackDown will not be disappointed—the change also optimizes production and travel schedules for talent and crew.”[1]
Further industry speculation links the swap to WWE’s forecast of stronger brand followings within each city, as well as venue availability around the New Year’s holiday week.
Impact on Fans and WWE Storylines
The date and venue changes may affect fans’ plans, especially those who booked travel or accommodations around the original shows. WWE has assured all ticket holders they can seek refunds or exchanges, but some disappointment among fans expecting to see a specific brand in their city is inevitable.
From a storyline perspective, WWE’s creative team reportedly adjusted taping plans and promotional pushes accordingly. RAW taking place at the high-profile Barclays Center on January 5 is expected to feature marquee matches and storyline advancements setting the tone for WWE’s 2026 calendar year, including build-up to Royal Rumble season.
Meanwhile, SmackDown’s January 2 show in Buffalo will still aim to deliver strong, engaging content with a mix of emerging stars and established wrestlers, keeping momentum following the holiday season.
Looking Ahead: What Fans Can Expect
WWE fans can anticipate the following from the January events:
RAW at Barclays Center (Jan 5): A premium live broadcast featuring top RAW superstars in pivotal story arcs, title defenses, and potential surprises.
SmackDown at KeyBank Center (Jan 2): A high-energy showdown showcasing SmackDown’s roster in a fan-friendly venue, likely with championship clashes and storyline progressions.
WWE’s network and television partners will broadcast these shows live, making them key viewing for wrestling fans worldwide. The company’s Holiday Tour overall aims to blend traditional arenas with international dates to widen global outreach, with RAW and SmackDown schedule flexibility demonstrating WWE’s adaptive live event management.
Final Thoughts: WWE’s Strategic Move for 2026 Kickoff
This strategic switch of RAW and SmackDown dates and venues in New York early 2026 highlights WWE’s commitment to optimizing fan experience and live event impact during a crucial period of its calendar. As one backstage source summarized:
“WWE’s live event scheduling is always fluid. Changes like this keep the product fresh and allow the company to respond dynamically to market needs and operational realities without compromising show quality.”[1]
Fans are encouraged to check their tickets and official WWE communications for the latest updates on venue arrangements and refunds. With both shows still delivering in New York, the shift promises a unique start to WWE’s 2026 live event season.
