WWE SmackDown to Return to 2 Hours in June 2025 – As noted via WrestleVotes, WWE SmackDown is set to become a 3-hour show starting in January 2025. This change means WWE will have 6 hours of weekly first-run programming, with RAW also continuing its 3-hour format when it moves to Netflix.
Joey Votes, speaking on Wrestlevotes Radio (via Sportskeeda’s Backstage Pass Patreon), revealed that the 3-hour format for SmackDown is only planned to be temporary, lasting for six months. He mentioned, “Something else we wanted to touch on quickly when we mentioned that SmackDown will be moving to three hours. As of right now, the chatter internally is that is only for 6 months. [3 hours] is gonna start in January when Raw moves to 3 hours. The plan right now is that 6 months down the road, SmackDown then goes back to 2 hours.”
However, as with many WWE decisions, plans could change depending on the show’s performance. If USA Network is pleased with SmackDown’s ratings on Friday nights, there’s potential for WWE to be offered more money to keep the 3-hour format longer. With WrestleMania season beginning in January and major stars like The Rock and John Cena potentially returning, the additional hour may serve to fit in more high-profile segments and matches during this crucial time of year.
WWE SmackDown to Return to 2 Hours in June 2025
