WWE SmackDown Expansion Likely as Talks Continue with USA Network

WWE SmackDown is reportedly set for a major change in 2025, as the show will expand to a three-hour format starting January 3, 2025, on the USA Network. This will be the first time since 2019 that SmackDown has run for three hours, and fans are eager to see how the additional time will impact the weekly program.

According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, the negotiations for the extended show are currently ongoing, with USA Network and WWE working on finalizing the deal. While nothing has been officially confirmed by WWE or USA Network, the report aligns with the information shared by WrestleVotes about SmackDown’s potential expansion.

“As far as how this works financially, we are just told that negotiations are ongoing with USA.”

Meltzer also noted that while WWE Raw is set to move to Netflix in January 2025, the show will remain two hours on the USA Network until its transition. Upon moving to Netflix, Raw will revert to its three-hour runtime, giving both of WWE’s flagship shows expanded airtime.

With SmackDown expected to return to a three-hour format and Raw heading to Netflix, WWE is making big changes for 2025. The potential impact of this additional airtime will be something fans and analysts will be watching closely.

How do you feel about SmackDown potentially expanding to three hours? Do you think this will enhance the show, or could it impact the pacing of the episodes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!