A significant shift in the WWE’s television landscape is set to take place early next year, as SmackDown will return to its original three-hour format starting January 2, 2026. The move, which was announced live on the December 12th edition of SmackDown, marks a pivotal moment in the show’s history and will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the WWE’s Friday night programming.
Why the Change?
Sources close to WWE management indicate that the decision to expand SmackDown to three hours was made in an effort to provide fans with a more comprehensive and immersive viewing experience. With the growing popularity of WWE’s premium live events and the increasing demand for content on various digital platforms, the company believes that a longer broadcast will allow them to deliver more storylines, matches, and surprises to the audience.
“We want to give our fans as much WWE as possible,” said a WWE insider. “With the three-hour format, we’ll be able to showcase our talent in a more substantial way, which will ultimately benefit the show and the company as a whole.”
Impact on Storylines and Match Selection
The expanded format will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the development of storylines and match selection for SmackDown. With more time available, writers will be able to delve deeper into complex narratives and introduce new plot twists, keeping viewers engaged and invested in the characters and storylines.
Moreover, the extended broadcast will provide more opportunities for wrestlers to showcase their skills and build momentum leading up to major events. The increased time will also allow for a greater range of match types and formats, potentially featuring more tag team and handicap matches, as well as unique stipulations.
“We’re excited to see how the writers will use this extra time to tell more engaging stories and give our talent the opportunity to shine,” said a WWE Superstar, who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase our skills and build up to the major events.”
A New Era for SmackDown
The three-hour format will mark a new era for SmackDown, which has undergone significant changes in recent years. From its humble beginnings on UPN in the early 2000s to its current status as one of the WWE’s flagship shows, SmackDown has evolved into a staple of the professional wrestling landscape.
With the expanded format, SmackDown is poised to take its place alongside Monday Night Raw as one of the premier destinations for WWE fans. The show’s increased emphasis on storytelling and character development will appeal to a broader audience, attracting both casual and die-hard fans.
“We’re thrilled to be returning to a three-hour format,” said WWE President Nick Khan in a statement. “SmackDown has always been a show that prides itself on delivering for our fans, and this change will only continue to enhance the viewing experience.”
A Glimpse into the Future
As SmackDown embarks on this new chapter, fans can expect a plethora of exciting developments and surprises in the coming months. With a longer broadcast comes more opportunities for unexpected twists and turns, and the WWE is likely to capitalize on this by introducing new storylines, matches, and feuds.
The expanded format will also provide a platform for WWE’s up-and-coming talent to gain more exposure and build momentum. With the increased emphasis on storytelling and character development, fans can expect to see a fresh crop of wrestlers emerging as top contenders.
The Road Ahead
As SmackDown prepares to return to its three-hour format, fans can look forward to a more immersive and engaging viewing experience. With a longer broadcast comes more opportunities for storytelling, match selection, and surprises, making this a pivotal moment in the show’s history.
As one WWE Superstar noted, “This is a great opportunity for us to take our show to the next level and provide fans with a viewing experience that’s unlike anything else in professional wrestling.”
With the expanded format set to launch on January 2, 2026, fans can expect a thrilling ride ahead. Will SmackDown be able to sustain the momentum and maintain its position as one of the WWE’s flagship shows? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the future of SmackDown has never looked brighter.