WWE SmackDown will go back to a three-hour format again on January 2, 2026but this time, the company knows it needs backup.
According to a report from BodySlam.net, WWE is planning a roster boost for the blue brand as the show prepares to jump back to a 3-hour format early next year. Internal discussions have made it clear: the blue brand cant carry that extra hour without serious reinforcements.
And its not just about adding more wrestlers. Behind the curtain, WWE reportedly understands that things need fixing on multiple fronts, including the creative side.
This comes after Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live noted that the company doesnt expect SmackDown to stay three hours for all of 2026. Instead, its likely a short-term move that could fade away quietly by midyear:
Thats exactly what happened in 2025, when WWE expanded SmackDown to three hours in January but quietly cut it back by July. The change drew mixed reactions from fanssome appreciated the extra content, while others felt it stretched too thin without the roster depth to make it worthwhile.
This time, WWE seems to be playing it smarter. Instead of letting SmackDown drown under the weight of a third hour, the company is actively working to strengthen the brand with new talent and creative resources.
Whether that means call-ups from NXT, big returns, or brand switches remains to be seen. But one things clearWWE doesnt want a repeat of last years burnout.
What do you thinkcan a roster boost actually fix SmackDowns 3-hour problem, or is two hours still the sweet spot? Drop your thoughts and let us know how YOU would shake up the blue brand.
