Steve Carrier on December 20, 2024
It’s official: WWE SmackDown is getting bigger—literally. WWE has announced that SmackDown will expand to a three-hour format starting with the January 3, 2025, episode. The show will continue to air every Friday at 8 p.m. ET on USA Network, delivering even more action and drama to fans.
The announcement ends months of speculation and confirms the change just in time for WWE’s new year shakeup. WWE’s website broke the news, stating, “SmackDown continues to air on USA Network every Friday night at 8/7 C in the U.S. At the start of 2025, SmackDown will expand to three hours starting with the Jan. 3 episode from Phoenix, Arizona.”
This move aligns with WWE’s broader strategy to evolve its programming heading into 2025. Monday Night Raw is also undergoing changes as it transitions to Netflix, although details on Raw’s runtime are still under wraps.
Fans have been divided on the news, with some excited for more content and others worried about potential overexposure. SmackDown’s two-hour format has long been praised for its focused storytelling and fast pace. Expanding to three hours could change the dynamics significantly, but it also opens the door for more matchups and storylines.
The first three-hour SmackDown from Phoenix promises to set the tone for WWE’s revamped programming slate. Whether this shift revitalizes the show or presents new challenges, fans are gearing up for what’s next.
What are your thoughts on Smack Down’s move to three hours? Will it add value or stretch the content too thin? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
December 20, 2024 4:22 pm
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