WWE SmackDown set to return to its two-hour format

Since its arrival on USA Network, WWE SmackDown has undergone several changes, including the criticized three-hour format, currently in effect. However, this will change again very soon, as reported by Bodyslam and Wrestling Observer. Although there is no exact date, everything points to the change taking place this summer.

Dave Meltzer, a journalist from Wrestling Observer, pointed out that the change will take place when Bran Strowman's cooking show, "Everything on the Menu," returns to the USA Network lineup. The show was renewed for a second season, scheduled to premiere this summer. The show will air in the 10 P.M. time slot, which usually occupies the third hour of SmackDown.

The first season of "Everything on the Menu" also aired on Fridays in the 10 P.M. slot in 2025. Although the premiere date of the second season has not been officially announced yet, Bodyslam indicated that it will take place in "a few weeks". So far, the TV schedule published online by USA Network only goes up to May 8, where SmackDown continues to be advertised as a three-hour show.

This second stage of the blue brand with a three-hour format began with the first episode of 2026, aired on January 2. The format change was once again criticized by a large sector of fans, who considered three hours to be an excessive duration for a weekly show. This, coupled with the negative ratings recent episodes of SmackDown have received on Cagematch. This data was used by WWE itself in a promo by Pat McAfee, making it clear that they are fully aware of the audience's criticisms.

It remains to be seen when the new change will take place and if it will be permanent. Despite the criticisms, USA Network has found in the third hour of SmackDown a perfect content to maintain audience performance on Friday nights. That is why, once the second season of "Everything on the Menu" concludes, perhaps the channel will reconsider bringing back the three-hour format of the blue brand.