Starting the year 2026 with excitement, WWE SmackDown will return to a three-hour format beginning January 2nd. Previously running for two hours since the summer, the show’s extension by an additional hour coincides with the start of WrestleMania season, offering fresh opportunities for the program.
Here are six key updates for WWE SmackDown as it expands to three hours:
6. Refreshed commentary team
Beginning with the January 5th WWE Raw episode, Corey Graves and Michael Cole will feature together on the broadcast. Meanwhile, Wade Barrett and Joe Tessitore will take over commentary duties for SmackDown as it kicks off the new year. With the show now running three hours, there is potential for increased involvement from Barrett and Tessitore in storylines, especially given the past connection between Wade Barrett and Drew McIntyre.
For more details, please click the “Next Page” button below.
—
Fan Take: Extending SmackDown to three hours signals WWE’s commitment to delivering more content and enriching storylines during the crucial WrestleMania season. This change could intensify rivalries and create more dynamic moments, making the show a must-watch for fans eager for fresh developments in WWE.
