Overview
- Michael Cole and Corey Graves announced the format change during the Dec. 12 broadcast.
- The first three-hour episode will originate from KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, on Jan. 2, 2026.
- SmackDown previously ran three hours in early 2025 before reverting to two hours in June.
- WrestleVotes had reported last month that the Jan. 2 expansion was likely, now confirmed on-air.
- BodySlam reports WWE is evaluating creative changes and a roster boost for the New Year, as fan response to longer shows remains split.