Big changes are on the horizon for WWE Friday Night SmackDown. Earlier this month, Triple H announced that the blue brand, currently airing on the USA Network, will be returning to its traditional two-hour format later in 2024.
According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, this shift is expected to happen sometime between May and June, shortly after WrestleMania 41. WWE reportedly plans to keep SmackDown in its current three-hour format through the spring, as the company believes it has enough compelling content to sustain the additional hour until then.
The End of the Three-Hour Experiment
SmackDown’s move back to two hours will mark the conclusion of the show’s recent experiment with an extended runtime. While the three-hour format has allowed WWE to showcase more talent and stories, it has also been met with mixed reactions from fans, many of whom feel that the additional hour dilutes the show’s pacing and impact.
A return to two hours would bring SmackDown back to its roots and align it with what many fans consider its most successful format. Historically, the two-hour structure has been praised for delivering a tighter, more action-packed product, and this change is likely to be welcomed by a majority of WWE’s fanbase.
What This Means for WWE Programming
The timing of the change is significant. WrestleMania 41, which will take place in April, is traditionally a reset point for WWE’s storylines and programming. By scaling SmackDown back to two hours following the biggest event of the year, WWE can adjust its creative direction and focus on crafting concise, high-quality episodes for the remainder of 2024.
SmackDown’s Future on USA Network
This announcement comes as SmackDown continues its current run on the USA Network. The show’s move to the network in late 2024 was part of WWE’s massive deal with NBCUniversal, following the expiration of its previous agreement with FOX. Fans will be keeping a close eye on how this programming change impacts SmackDown’s presentation under its new home.
As WWE gears up for this transition, it’s clear that Triple H and the creative team are looking to optimize SmackDown’s format to keep fans engaged while delivering the best product possible.
For now, fans can look forward to an exciting few months leading into WrestleMania 41, with the blue brand wrapping up its three-hour run in style before heading back to its classic two-hour format later this year.
Wrestling News Blog 