If there’s one thing to know about the Paul Levesque era of WWE, it’s that every detail matters—no line, moment, or background shot is without purpose. That philosophy was on full display during this week’s WWE SmackDown, as a small but significant comment could signal a major roster shakeup in the near future.
During the opening promo segment featuring Cody Rhodes, RAW’s Chad Gable—alongside The Creed Brothers—surprisingly made an appearance on the blue brand. While it might seem odd for RAW Superstars to crash SmackDown, Gable quickly explained that “the transfer window is about to open,” hinting at a potential move to SmackDown. He further noted that SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis was already working behind the scenes to bring him over.
To add fuel to the fire, Michael Cole followed up on commentary, stating that when RAW officially moves to Netflix in January 2025, fans can expect significant changes to both SmackDown and NXT. Cole’s comment left little doubt that trades, roster shake-ups, and call-ups from NXT are on the horizon as WWE prepares for a new era across its brands.
What Does This Mean for WWE?
Roster Trades and NXT Call-Ups: WWE has teased a “transfer window” concept, which opens the door for Superstars to swap brands. This could see major names move between RAW and SmackDown, as well as emerging talent from NXT getting called up to the main roster. It’s a fresh and exciting way to bolster the rosters ahead of RAW’s move to Netflix and the rumored third hour of SmackDown.
Commentary Shake-Up: Michael Cole’s mention could also serve as a transition for WWE’s broadcast teams. With rumors of Pat McAfee returning to SmackDown commentary, it makes sense for Michael Cole to head back to RAW, while Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett are said to be joining Corey Graves on the blue brand. These moves will give WWE’s commentary teams a refreshed dynamic heading into 2025.
The Third Hour of SmackDown: Another significant takeaway is the speculation surrounding SmackDown expanding to a three-hour format. If this happens, the blue brand will need a deeper roster to fill the extra time, and the “transfer window” could be WWE’s storyline explanation for these roster additions.
Why This Matters
WWE is clearly preparing for a seismic shift in 2025 as it adjusts to new deals and platforms. The “transfer window” could be a game-changing way to keep storylines fresh, create buzz around Superstar moves, and elevate talent from NXT. It also ties into WWE’s growing partnership with Netflix, giving fans plenty to look forward to as WWE embarks on a new era.
For now, details are scarce, but the groundwork is being laid. Keep an eye on SmackDown, RAW, and NXT in the coming months because when the “transfer window” officially opens, the WWE landscape could look very different.
WWE is gearing up for a monumental shift in how fans will experience Monday Night Raw. Starting January 6, 2025, the red brand will move away from traditional cable television and onto the Netflix streaming platform, marking a bold new era for the company. But that’s not the only shake-up in store—according to recent reports, Raw will also adopt a live-streaming format on Netflix, airing in real-time no matter the location of its taping.
Live Streaming Across All Time Zones
Traditionally, Raw episodes taped outside North America have aired at the usual 8 PM EST time slot in the U.S., albeit on a tape delay due to time zone differences. However, starting in 2025, fans can expect live broadcasts regardless of the taping’s origin. For instance, when Raw heads to Europe in March 2025 for shows in Brussels, Glasgow, and London, American viewers will be able to tune in live during the afternoon. For those unable to watch live, the episodes will be available on Netflix as Video-On-Demand (VOD) shortly after they air.
This change aligns with the flexibility and immediacy that streaming platforms like Netflix offer, enabling WWE to further cater to its global audience. Fans worldwide will have the option to watch Raw as it happens, adding a fresh layer of excitement to the weekly flagship show.
Runtime Flexibility Adds Intrigue
In addition to the move to Netflix, Raw’s runtime appears to be evolving as well. While the show traditionally ran for three hours—or two hours in its current temporary format—new reports suggest that WWE may adopt a more flexible runtime. Details remain unconfirmed, but this shift could allow WWE greater freedom to tailor episodes based on storytelling and content needs, rather than adhering to a rigid broadcast schedule.
Star-Studded Netflix Debut
The premiere episode of Raw on Netflix will emanate live from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and the company is pulling out all the stops. WWE has already announced appearances from major stars, including 16-time World Champion John Cena and former Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. Other top names like Cody Rhodes and Bianca Belair are also slated to appear, promising a blockbuster debut for Raw’s streaming era.
Pat McAfee is making his highly anticipated return to WWE commentary, just in time for RAW’s debut on Netflix this January. The charismatic broadcaster, who stepped away in August to focus on his role with ESPN’s College GameDay, confirmed the news via Twitter following an announcement by Triple H at a Netflix media event earlier this week.
McAfee’s return reunites him with longtime commentary partner Michael Cole, a pairing fans have praised for their energy and chemistry. reflecting his excitement, McAfee wrote on X:
“An absolute honor to be asked back… A childhood dream realized every single time I’m lucky enough to be in an arena with the @WWE Universe.
Can’t wait to be talking into a microphone next to @MichaelCole again.. He’s the [GOAT].
I’m excited to tell the worldwide audience on Netflix how great the WWE Superstars are… and how big of scumbags some of ‘em are too. Let’s go.”
An absolute honor to be asked back.. A. Childhood dream realized every single time I’m lucky enough to be in an arena with the @WWE Universe.
Can’t wait to be talking into a microphone next to @MichaelCole again.. He’s the 🐐.
McAfee’s return coincides with a groundbreaking move for WWE, as RAW becomes the first weekly wrestling program to premiere on Netflix. This new platform is expected to broaden WWE’s global reach, offering fresh opportunities to connect with a diverse audience. With McAfee at the commentary table, the broadcast promises to deliver the blend of humor, passion, and sharp analysis that made him a fan favorite.
The McAfee-Cole Dynamic
McAfee’s partnership with Michael Cole has been celebrated for revitalizing WWE commentary. Cole, who has referred to McAfee as a “game-changer,” will no doubt benefit from the return of his high-energy co-host. The duo’s infectious camaraderie and knack for storytelling have added an extra layer of excitement to WWE broadcasts, making their reunion one of the most anticipated aspects of RAW’s Netflix era.
A Warm Welcome Back
Fans and Superstars alike have expressed enthusiasm for McAfee’s return, viewing his unique voice as a perfect fit for WWE’s evolving presence in the streaming world. With his trademark wit and ability to connect with audiences, McAfee’s commentary is set to elevate WWE’s Netflix debut and reintroduce viewers to the magic of Monday night wrestling.
The New Day, one of WWE’s most celebrated factions, reached a bittersweet milestone during their tenth-anniversary celebration on this week’s episode of WWE Raw. What could have been a triumphant moment for the trio of Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston, and the returning Big E instead turned into a shocking display of turmoil, signaling a dramatic shift for the iconic group.
Big E Returns, But Unity Shatters
The segment began with General Manager Adam Pearce inviting Woods and Kingston to the ring, where the duo addressed their recent struggles. Tensions between them had been brewing for weeks, culminating in a heated argument just days earlier. Both men expressed gratitude to the fans for supporting their decade-long journey but hinted that trouble was brewing, assuring the audience, “It’s not your fault.”
Before they could elaborate, Big E’s entrance music hit, drawing an eruption of cheers from the crowd. Big E, who had been sidelined with a career-threatening neck injury since 2022, made an emotional return. However, the excitement quickly gave way to tension as Big E voiced his concerns about the ongoing discord between his longtime teammates.
Big E shared heartfelt words about how Woods and Kingston stood by him through his darkest days, vowing to return the favor by becoming their manager until he was medically cleared to compete. It was a selfless offer—but one that wasn’t met with the gratitude he might have expected.
Woods and Kingston Lash Out
To the audience’s shock, both Woods and Kingston rejected Big E’s proposal. Woods, visibly upset, accused Big E of only stepping in after weeks of infighting, suggesting that his return felt too little, too late. Kingston’s response cut even deeper. In a bitter tirade, Kingston dismissed Big E’s injury struggles, pointing out how legends like Kurt Angle managed to return to the ring after similar setbacks.
The two berated their former ally, questioning his commitment to the group and casting doubt on his future in the ring. Woods delivered the harshest blow, claiming Big E would never be medically cleared and telling him to walk away for good.
A Fractured Family
Despite Big E’s attempt to mend fences with a final offer of a group hug, Woods and Kingston stood firm. The once inseparable trio seemed irreparably broken as Woods and Kingston clasped hands in the ring, declaring themselves a two-man unit. Big E, left standing alone, watched on in a poignant moment that marked the end of an era.
What’s Next for The New Day?
The New Day’s decade-long legacy is one of camaraderie, innovation, and record-breaking success. But with this unexpected turn of events, fans are left wondering if this marks the permanent dissolution of the group or the beginning of a heated rivalry among its former brothers.
With Big E’s return to Raw and his promise to be present every week, the story is far from over. Whether reconciliation or further betrayal is on the horizon, The New Day’s 10th-anniversary celebration will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal chapter in their storied WWE history.
Stay tuned to see how this emotional saga unfolds—and whether Big E can find his way back into the hearts of his former brothers in the weeks to come.
After weeks of speculation and anticipation, WWE has officially added a new midcard title for the women’s division on Monday Night RAW: the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. This announcement follows the recent introduction of the Women’s United States Championship on SmackDown, creating parity across WWE’s brands for their female Superstars.
While many expected this reveal to happen much sooner, especially with the Women’s U.S. Championship tournament already underway, WWE chose an unexpected moment to debut the new title. The announcement was made just before RAW went on the air, and a clip of the unveiling was shared online by wrestling media personality Stephanie Hypes. Fans later got to see the segment as part of the RAW broadcast, but the timing left many scratching their heads.
During the segment, Adam Pearce presented the new championship, explaining its significance as a “workhorse title” designed to highlight the depth and talent of RAW’s women’s roster. The belt itself is a sleek design, echoing the classic look of the men’s Intercontinental Championship but with a white strap to distinguish it as part of the women’s division.
This move marks another significant step in WWE’s continued efforts to elevate women’s wrestling and provide more opportunities for meaningful feuds and matches beyond the main titles. The Women’s Intercontinental Championship has the potential to showcase emerging talent, provide new storyline opportunities, and create a fresh platform for stars looking to break through to the next level.
As WWE expands its title landscape for women, the next question is: which Superstar will step up to claim the inaugural championship? With RAW’s loaded roster, the possibilities are endless, and fans are eager to see how this new championship shapes the future of the division.
With most of WWE’s stars gearing themselves up for Survivor Series: WarGames on November 30, the company has been taping episodes of “WWE Raw” and “WWE SmackDown,” with the November 18 episode of “Raw” being the latest example. However, the show being taped meant that a number of things that happened live ended up being changed for the televised broadcast.
Matches Filmed Out of Sequence
According to Fightful Select, the November 18 episode wasn’t shown in the same order it was filmed. For example, viewers were greeted with the electrifying return of Rhea Ripley, who was revealed as the final member of the women’s WarGames team. However, this major moment was actually taped at the end of the show, not the beginning as it aired.
Meanwhile, the hard-hitting clash between Bronson Reed and Seth Rollins—which saw Reed secure a massive win, followed by an intense confrontation involving Solo Sikoa—aired as the main event. For those in attendance, though, it was the first match of the evening.
WWE also made post-production tweaks to enhance the televised experience, adding commentary lines and refining audio during certain segments to ensure the show delivered maximum impact.
Why WWE Tapes Multiple Episodes
The November 18 Raw taping is just the beginning of WWE’s holiday season adjustments. By the end of 2024, the company has plans to film three additional episodes of Raw and SmackDown back-to-back with live broadcasts.
November 22 SmackDown: The November 29 episode will be taped after the live show.
December 13 SmackDown: The December 20 episode will be taped on the same night.
December 16 Raw: WWE will record the December 23 episode following the live event.
The reasoning for these tapings? WWE wants to give its roster and crew some much-deserved downtime during the Christmas season. While the motive for taping the November 29 episode of SmackDown hasn’t been disclosed, the December tapings are aimed at ensuring talent and staff have an extended holiday break.
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