WWE SmackDown is set to return to 2 hours in a few weeks, bringing the extended period to an end until further notice.
As reported by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Daily Update, the final 3-hour SmackDown until further notice will take place on June 26, meaning that the July 3 edition will be the first to revert back to the original runtime:
The final three-hour episode of SmackDown for the next several months will be on 6/26. Many thought it would be this past weekend. But it is another month. The Braun Strowman Everything on the Menu show will be starting at 11 p.m. until July, when it likely moves to 10 p.m.
It should be noted that the July 3 SmackDown is expected to be taped ahead of time to give staff time off for the July 4 weekend.
The show as extended by an hour as the USA Network needed programming for the 10 pm until 11 pm slot on Friday nights. The extension first took place in early 2025, but was reverted back in the summer. With SmackDown gaining the extra hour again in early 2026, it is likely that this could be the pattern for the foreseeable future.
Final WWE SmackDown Over 2 Hours To Be Taped Overseas
The June 26 SmackDown will serve as the go-home show for Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia, which will also see the King and Queen of the Ring finals take place. While this show has previously taken place in the Kingdom, this year the show will emanate from the O2 Arena in London, England. However, the show will be taped on June 23 [Tuesday], and will air in the USA on the following Friday.
It is currently unknown if the show will air live on Netflix on Tuesday or if fans will have to wait.
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