This Friday, SmackDown returned to its three-hour format on the USA Network, but fans shouldn’t expect this longer runtime to last indefinitely. Brian Alvarez of the Brian and Vinnie Show revealed that this extended format is likely only planned for the first half of 2026, similar to how it was in 2025. He noted that the network seems to be following a recurring pattern with repeat programming. Last year, SmackDown ran as a three-hour show for several months before reverting to two hours, and it appears this approach will be repeated in 2026.
Alvarez mentioned that during the first three-hour SmackDown of the year, there were remarks hinting this might just be a one-time occurrence. He stated, "This was the first three-hour SmackDown, and they made comments that suggested it was an annual blip. Last year’s show was three hours early in the year and then dropped back to two hours."
He further explained that insiders had already informed him about this plan before the three-hour format was announced in January. Alvarez shared, "When the January announcement was made about returning to three hours, we were told it would likely be the same as last year—a three-hour show during the first half."
This extended broadcast seems to be part of a larger network strategy to test strong lead-ins for other programming. Alvarez also mentioned that new shows aimed at wrestling fans could debut later in 2026. He said, "They want to find a show similar to the Braun Strowman show that wrestling fans can follow after SmackDown, probably starting later this year."
Although Alvarez believes that "three hours is too long for any wrestling show," he admitted that the first three-hour episode of 2026 exceeded expectations, thanks to the introduction of fresh talent from NXT and the independent circuit. Wrestlers like Trick Williams, Jordynne Grace, Jevon Evans, and Matt Cardona brought new energy to WWE, making the extended broadcast worthwhile for the time being.
However, the extended runtime might not last much longer. If the rumored post-SmackDown project gets approved, the show could return to its usual format by summer.
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Fan Take: For WWE fans, this news highlights the company’s ongoing efforts to innovate and engage the audience with fresh talent and new programming. The temporary three-hour show could serve as a valuable experiment, potentially shaping the future structure of WWE broadcasts and keeping the product dynamic.
