WWE SmackDown is set for a major format change tonight.
WWE is kicking off 2026 with tonight’s episode of SmackDown, which will emanate live from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. The company has an impressive lineup for the show, and tonight the blue brand will also revert to a three-hour format.
It was reported back in November 2025 that WWE and USA Network had decided to move SmackDown back to three hours in 2026, beginning with the January 2 episode. WWE also confirmed the change on the December 12, 2025, episode of the blue brand.
It’s worth noting that WWE moved SmackDown to a three-hour format at the beginning of 2025 following RAW’s move to Netflix. However, it reverted to being two hours in July.
What’s Scheduled For Tonight’s Episode Of WWE SmackDown?
WWE has an entertaining card for tonight’s episode of SmackDown, including a big title match.
After announcing that he will face Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship in a Three Stages of Hell match on the January 9, 2026, episode of SmackDown in Berlin, Germany, Drew McIntyre will reveal the stipulation for each stage tonight.
Damian Priest and Aleister Black will take their rivalry to the next level when they collide in an Ambulance Match.
Ahead of their title match on the January 5 episode of WWE RAW, Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY will team up with Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair to take on Women’s Tag Team Champions The Kabuki Warriors, Nia Jax, and Lash Legend in a massive eight-woman tag team match.
Giulia will get the opportunity to regain the Women’s United States Championship as she takes on Chelsea Green tonight.
Michin was supposed to face WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill tonight. However, the status of the match is in question after Michin reportedly sustained a shoulder injury during the recent WWE Holiday Tour.
It will also be interesting to see if new United States Champion Carmelo Hayes follows in the footsteps of the last two champions and continues the open challenges.
It also appears that the venue might’ve spoiled Randy Orton’s return, but nothing is confirmed so far.
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