WWE made big mistake with SmackDown format change, says ex-employee

Dutch Mantell shared his perspective on SmackDown’s upcoming transition to a three-hour format during a recent episode of Smack Talk. The change comes as part of WWE’s programming shifts, which include RAW’s move to Netflix and SmackDown’s relocation to USA Network.

Mantell reflected on the challenges of maintaining audience engagement during extended broadcasts.

Going to three hours? I don’t know. I hope the people know. Remember the third hour on any show is tough. Really, really, tough. A football game, even if it’s exciting, for three hours, you’re going, ‘God!’ You keep looking at your watch. When is this thing gonna be over? But we’ll see what they can do. We’ll see what the creative team comes up with.

SmackDown prepares for historic format change in 2025

The blue brand’s expansion marks a significant milestone in its 25-year history. WWE confirmed SmackDown will debut its three-hour format on January 3, 2025, broadcasting live from Phoenix on USA Network. The show has maintained its two-hour structure since its Thursday night premiere on April 29, 1999.

This development follows several scheduling adjustments for WWE’s weekly programming. RAW transitions to Netflix on January 6, 2025, with its premiere set for Inglewood’s Intuit Dome. Additionally, WWE recently revived Saturday Night’s Main Event, featuring Cody Rhodes successfully defending his Undisputed WWE Championship against Kevin Owens.

The timing of SmackDown’s format change aligns with the beginning of the Road to WrestleMania XLI, scheduled for April 19 and 20 in Las Vegas.