Major change coming to WWE SmackDown in 2025
There will be a major change coming to WWE SmackDown next year. Tonight's edition of the blue brand was taped following last week's show at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut.
It was announced today that a massive change will be coming to SmackDown beginning with the January 3, 2025, episode in Phoenix, Arizona. In an article published on WWE's official website today about where to watch the company's programming, it was revealed that the show would officially be expanded to three hours next month.
"SmackDown continues to air on USA Network every Friday night at 8/7 C in the U.S. At the start of 2025, SmackDown will expand to three hours starting with the Jan. 3 episode from Phoenix, Arizona," stated the article.
Tonight's episode of SmackDown is shaping up to be an eventful show. Bianca Belair and Naomi will be defending the Women's Tag Team Championship against Nia Jax and Candice LeRae. Jade Cargill used to be The EST's tag team partner but has not returned to WWE television since she was brutally attacked last month on the blue brand.
Johnny Gargano is also scheduled to have a singles match against Alex Shelley of the Motor City Machine Guns later tonight as well. #DIY captured the WWE Tag Team Championship from MCMG on the December 6 edition of SmackDown.
WWE rumored to introduce a new title for The Bloodline on SmackDown
The company may be planning on introducing a new championship specifically for The Bloodline in the coming weeks.
It was reported on WrestleVotes Radio on Backstage Pass that the company could be planning on introducing the 'Tribal Chief Championship' for The Bloodline. Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns are scheduled to square off in a Tribal Combat Match on RAW's Netflix premiere on January 6, 2025.
Solo Sikoa took charge of the Ula Falla and claimed that he was the new Tribal Chief, following Reigns' defeat at WrestleMania XL. He also recruited new members into his faction. However, the OTC has not acknowledged Solo and the two continue to battle to be The Head of the Table.
The promotion recently introduced the Transfer Window, allowing stars to change brands ahead of the 2025 WWE Draft. Logan Paul announced that he was the newest member of RAW's roster earlier this week. It will be interesting to see if any more stars decide to leave SmackDown in the weeks ahead.