WWE Rumors: FOX planning to make HUGE change to SmackDown Live in October
The WWE and FOX may be considering making SmackDown Live a three-hour show, just like RAW, when the blue brand joins the broadcast network in October.
The Move
Last year, FOX and WWE agreed on a five-year broadcasting deal for the network to host SmackDown, worth US$205 million per year.
This deal will see FOX take over for USA Network - who decided not to retain the broadcasting rights, but will still air Raw and, starting in September, NXT.
What's the plan?
According to Dave Meltzer, who spoke on Wrestling Observer Radio, there are discussions about SmackDown being extended to three hours once Fox takes over.
Meltzer also reported that during these discussions, it was suggested that the third hour of the show will be shown on WWE Network or on Fox Sports 1.
This rumor comes off the heels of WWE announcing the move of NXT to the USA Network earlier this week, as well as the developmental brand being extended to two hours.
This move puts the company's developmental brand in direct competition with All Elite Wrestling, who are set to launch their own show on TNT this October.
What's next for SmackDown?
WWE SmackDown Live will continue to air on Tuesday nights for the time being, before the huge debut on Fox on October 4th.
The debut episode will feature several stars from both past and present, with The Undertaker, Sting, Kurt Angle, Mick Foley, Booker T, Hulk Hogan and many other legends being announced for the show.
In addition to these guests, the show will also feature a triple threat match between current WWE Champion Kofi Kingston, Dolph Ziggler and Randy Orton for the Championship.
Are you excited for SmackDown on Fox? What changes do you think they'll make? Share your ideas in the comments below.