SmackDown reportedly set to undergo a major change on USA Network after Raw moves to Netflix in January 2025
USA Network is set to make a major change to SmackDown programming following Raw's move to Netflix next year in January.
Raw and SmackDown (via @WrestleOps/X)
SmackDown made its return to the USA Network last week. It was a spectacular show to kick off a new era. In its first episode, the blue brand saw some significant changes on its new home. It is just the beginning, as the show is set to undergo a massive alteration going forward after the debut of Raw on Netflix, as per some recent reports.
According to WrestleVotes, the USA Network is going to give an extra hour to SmackDown after Raw moves to Netflix in January. This means that from January 3, the blue brand will be a three-hour show for the first time ever. Not only that, the report further added that the show is going to be available on Netflix after the live broadcast is over on the USA Network.
Moreover, it will mark the first time that both of WWE’s weekly shows are three hours each. Other than that, Raw will also see some significant change before it moves to Netflix. Stars such as The Rock and John Cena are expected to play a prominent part on Raw during the initial months of the move to the streaming giant.
It has already been revealed that WWE will receive flexible timing for Monday Night Raw. It is going to provide a sense of unpredictability to the weekly programming as well. That being said, these deals are going to have a major impact on WWE that will shape the future of the company. Triple H has dubbed it a ‘game-changing’ move for the years to come.
Mercedes Mone expressed concerns over Raw turning to a two-hour show before moving to Netflix
WWE’s deal with the USA Network for broadcasting Raw will be coming to an end in October. Therefore, in order to fill up the time between October and December before moving to Netflix, Raw will shift to a two-hour show on the USA. This decision drew mixed reactions from many. Now, former WWE star Sasha Banks, a.k.a. Mercedes Mone, has voiced concerns over this transition.
Writing in her Mone Mag Newsletter, the AEW TBS Champion said that a two-hour show is going to snatch the opportunity to shine from a lot of talent. Mone stated that she has mixed feelings regarding this transition. It might lead to less showing of female talent on the show, averred Mone.
I’ve always loved having that extra hour because it gives more performers a chance to shine. Losing that time could mean fewer opportunities for the roster. It’s hard enough for talent, especially women to get TV time.Mercedes Mone via Mone Mag
However, the 32-year-old looked hopeful about Raw’s move to Netflix. She said that she is positive that there would be a lot of new ways for WWE to push more talent on the streaming giant. Therefore, the CEO believes that there will be more entertainment for fans and more growth in the business.
Anugrah Tyagi
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