Joe Hendry Tipped for Permanent SmackDown Call-Up – WWE is reportedly preparing to refresh the SmackDown roster as the blue brand expands to a three-hour format beginning in January 2026. As part of those plans, NXT standout Joe Hendry is said to be a strong candidate for a full-time move to the main roster.
According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, internal discussions have taken place regarding Hendry being called up permanently to SmackDown. The report also notes that the USA Network has been particularly keen on adding Hendry to the show as it enters its expanded format. With an additional hour of weekly television, WWE is expected to need more depth and new personalities to fill out the program consistently.
Hendry’s potential call-up would not come as a surprise given his current contract situation. Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select previously reported that when Hendry officially signed with WWE, he was placed on a main roster-level deal rather than a traditional NXT contract. That detail has long fueled speculation that WWE viewed him as someone earmarked for a quicker transition to either RAW or SmackDown.
Momentum behind Hendry continued this week, as he appeared on tonight’s SmackDown episode, which was taped on December 19. On the broadcast, Hendry defeated The Miz in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight, picking up a notable win against a former WWE Champion. The match served as a high-profile showcase for Hendry on a main roster platform and added further weight to reports suggesting WWE is testing him in a more prominent role.
SmackDown’s move to three hours officially begins on January 2, 2026, marking the first episode of the new year. The expansion comes as WWE builds toward the Royal Rumble, which is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia on January 31. With major events on the horizon and additional television time to fill, WWE is expected to lean more heavily on call-ups and roster adjustments in the coming weeks.
If Hendry is indeed brought up full-time, it would represent a significant step forward in his WWE career and signal strong confidence from both WWE and its broadcast partner. As always, WrestlingAttitude.Com will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more details emerge.
Joe Hendry Tipped for Permanent SmackDown Call-Up
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