WWE SmackDown Expanding to a 3-Hour Show in January 2025 – WWE SmackDown is reportedly set to expand to three hours in the near future, marking a significant change for the show, which has maintained a two-hour format since its debut.
According to a fresh report from WrestleVotes via WrestleVotes Radio, SmackDown will extend its runtime by an hour starting on January 3, 2025, coinciding with RAW’s move to Netflix. Once RAW shifts platforms, SmackDown will air its new three-hour format on USA Network.
While some fans are excited about the potential for longer, more detailed storytelling, others are concerned that the additional hour might lead to pacing issues or overexposure. WWE’s decision to extend SmackDown signals their confidence in the show’s ability to maintain viewership while offering more content on a weekly basis.
Though WWE has yet to officially announce the format change for SmackDown, it has been confirmed that RAW will temporarily return to a two-hour format on October 7, 2024. This two-hour version will remain in place until January 2025, when RAW resumes its three-hour length on Netflix.
Recent updates to SmackDown
SmackDown is already undergoing significant transformations. Last week’s premiere episode on USA Network debuted a fresh logo, signaling the show’s evolving brand. Additionally, the new theme song, “Neva Play” by Megan Thee Stallion featuring RM of BTS, was introduced.
To commemorate the occasion, several WWE legends were present. Vickie Guerrero and Rob Van Dam were seen in the audience, while stars like World Heavyweight Champion Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, William Regal, and Bobby Roode made on-screen appearances.
WWE SmackDown Expanding to a 3-Hour Show in January 2025
