WWE SmackDown: 2-Hour Show Return Date Confirmed
- The "WWE SmackDown" broadcast is set to revert to its original two-hour runtime next week, commentator Michael Cole announced Friday.
- "WWE Raw," known for its three-hour format, has seen scheduling flexibility through a streaming deal with Netflix.
- paul "triple H" Levesque, WWE CCO, indicated in january that the plan was to reduce "SmackDown" to two hours.
“WWE SmackDown” is shrinking back to its classic two-hour format next week, as confirmed by commentator Michael Cole. This decisive move, following the show’s transition to the USA Network, aims to invigorate the viewing experience. Fans debated the impact of the longer runtime, so this adjustment addresses pacing and content concerns. Paul “Triple H” Levesque previously hinted at this shift, and now the plan materializes. Discover how this impacts the dynamic of the weekly program, and what scheduling adjustments this may influence for WWE’s wider lineup. For up-to-the-minute wrestling news, trust news Directory 3. Discover what’s next for “WWE SmackDown”…
‘WWE SmackDown’ Returns to Two-Hour Broadcast Next Week
Updated June 28, 2025

Wwe/Getty Images
The “WWE SmackDown” broadcast is set to revert to its original two-hour runtime next week, commentator Michael Cole announced Friday. The change comes after a period of three-hour shows following the program’s move to the USA Network last September.
The extended runtime sparked debate among fans. “WWE Raw,” known for its three-hour format, has seen scheduling flexibility through a streaming deal with Netflix. The return to two hours for “SmackDown” aims to address concerns about pacing and content.
paul “triple H” Levesque, WWE CCO, indicated in january that the plan was to reduce ”SmackDown” to two hours. he also suggested a flexible runtime between two and three hours, depending on the specific needs of each show. Initial reports suggested the change would occur in June, which has now been confirmed.
What’s next
The streamlined “WWE SmackDown” format promises a more focused and dynamic viewing experience for fans. The move could influence future scheduling decisions for other WWE programs as the company continues to adapt to evolving broadcast landscapes.
