WWE has big plans for Joe Hendry as SmackDown gets extended by three hours [Report]

With SmackDown set to extend its runtime to three hours, the WWE roster will need additions and changes to fill the extra hour. This has sparked rumors that Joe Hendry could be one of the wrestlers promoted to the main roster. Hendry, 37, first appeared on the main roster during the Royal Rumble in January and made a surprise showing at WrestleMania in April, stepping in for the injured Kevin Owens in a match against Randy Orton.

Reports from WrestleVotes and Fightful Select indicate that Hendry is being considered for a permanent spot on SmackDown, with the USA Network keen to feature him on their program and WWE seeming receptive to the idea. Hendry is scheduled to appear on tonight’s SmackDown episode, where he will compete against The Miz and host a Christmas concert. Since joining WWE from TNA, Hendry has regularly appeared on NXT television and live events in 2025, also participating in WWE overseas events as well as matches involving The Miz.

Friday’s episode will also showcase Charlotte Flair competing alongside the Rush Legends, Julia and Kiana, in a tag team match against Chelsea and Alba Fire, with Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre in their respective corners, plus Ilya Dragunov challenging Carmelo Hayes for the US Championship.

Beyond Hendry, WWE is contemplating other call-ups as SmackDown expands. Despite Hendry’s somewhat polarizing style—favoring humorous segments and viral music over traditional wrestling—he has cultivated a strong fanbase. Other names under consideration for promotion include Sol Luka, especially after his notable victory over Bayley, as well as Trick Williams and Jevon Evans, all of whom WWE is evaluating for the next wave of main roster talent.

Fan Take: This potential call-up signals WWE’s commitment to diversifying its roster with unique personalities like Joe Hendry, which could bring fresh energy and creativity to SmackDown. For fans, it means more exciting and varied content as the brand expands, potentially elevating both entertainment and in-ring storytelling.