Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 13, 2024 7:37 am GMT
WWE fans are buzzing with excitement as new reports suggest that “WWE SmackDown” will expand to a three-hour format starting January 3, 2025. This change, which would bring the show more in line with “WWE Raw,” has sparked curiosity about the potential impact on viewership and competing wrestling programs.
Proposed Change to SmackDown’s Format
Rumors circulating in wrestling news circles indicate that WWE is set to make a significant change to “SmackDown.” According to reports from “WrestleVotes,” the show will move to a three-hour format when it begins airing on the USA Network next year. This expansion reflects a shift in WWE’s strategy as they aim to increase viewership and engagement.
– Current Format: Two-hour episodes
– New Format: Three-hour episodes starting January 3, 2025
– Broadcast Network: USA Network
Dave Meltzer of the “Wrestling Observer Newsletter” analyzed the financial implications of this shift, explaining that while USA Network pays less per hour compared to FOX ($96.3 million vs. $102.5 million), the expense of the additional hour is generally minimal. Meltzer categorized this investment as “low-risk, high-reward” for WWE, which could facilitate further growth in its audience.
However, the challenge remains: Fridays are known for having a tough viewership landscape. Many viewers have other plans on Friday nights, prompting questions about whether this new format will attract the audience WWE seeks.
Impact on Competing Programming
The decision to expand “SmackDown” could also affect rival wrestling shows, particularly “AEW Rampage,” which currently airs on Fridays at 10 PM. With the shift to a longer “SmackDown,” industry insiders speculate that changes may be on the horizon for “Rampage.”
– Potential moves by AEW:
– Shift airtime to avoid competition
– Cancel the show altogether
This competitive edge could reshape the wrestling landscape, particularly judging by the fan engagement each program garners.
Upcoming Streaming Changes
In addition to the shift in airing times, WWE is also making moves in the streaming domain. As part of its new agreements, “SmackDown” will transition its next-day streaming from Hulu to Peacock starting October 2023.
– Streaming Timeline:
– “SmackDown” shifts to Peacock in October 2023
– “Raw” episodes to be available on Netflix starting January 2024
– Current Hulu deal for “Raw” ends at the close of 2023
The streaming pivot reflects WWE’s strategy to increase views across platforms. Furthermore, as “NXT” prepares to launch its streaming service on The CW, fans may see an overall enhancement in WWE content availability.
Trademark Filings Indicate New Branding
WWE is also looking to refresh its image as it files several trademark applications related to a new “SmackDown” logo. The newly proposed designs include the stylized name “SMKDWN,” a move that aligns with modern branding strategies prevalent in the entertainment industry.
- Trademark Filings:
- New logo features interconnected letters “S” and “D.”
- Intended for use across various entertainment platforms and merchandise.
- Categories of trademark protection can include:
- Entertainment services for sports programming
- Clothing and merchandise
- Mobile applications for streaming content
- Expanded branding could also lead to increased merchandise sales and global recognition.
The trademark filings, particularly the new “SMKDWN” logo, imply that WWE is not just aiming for a programming shift but also focusing on revitalizing its brand image.
Conclusion: A Potential Game-Changer for WWE
As WWE gears up for these changes, fans are left wondering about the future of “SmackDown” and its potential impacts on both viewership and competition in the wrestling arena. With the new three-hour format, future streaming opportunities, and fresh branding strategies on the horizon, WWE is poised for a new chapter.
We don’t know yet how well these changes will work, but one thing is certain: wrestling fans are paying attention. The decisions WWE makes now could shape its future for a long time. This will keep fans interested and create a lot of excitement in the coming weeks and months.
