WWE SmackDown will officially revert to its two-hour runtime by mid-2025, as confirmed by WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque. After debuting its first-ever three-hour episode in January 2025, the popular Friday night show is set to transition back to a more concise format—a move welcomed by many fans and critics alike.
Triple H Confirms the Change on The Pat McAfee Show
During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Triple H confirmed that the three-hour format for SmackDown is temporary. “For right now, [it’s three hours], and then it switches back to two,” he said. While an exact date was not provided, reports from Wrestlenomics’ Brandon Thurston and WrestleVotes indicate that the transition will occur in June 2025.
The news comes after WWE’s decision to experiment with longer runtimes for its programming. However, the shift back to two hours reflects the company’s efforts to find the optimal balance between match quality, storytelling, and audience engagement. Speaking on the SI Media Podcast, Triple H elaborated, “Sometimes three hours can feel long; sometimes two hours is not enough. Somewhere in the middle to me is the sweet spot.”
What Fans and Experts Are Saying
The announcement has sparked significant discussion within the wrestling community. Many fans believe the shorter runtime will enhance SmackDown’s pacing, reducing filler segments and making each episode feel more dynamic. However, there are concerns that the change could result in less airtime for midcard talent and emerging storylines.
Wrestling analyst Bryan Alvarez noted, “A two-hour show forces WWE to prioritize its strongest content. It ensures that every segment on the card counts, but it also means certain wrestlers might be sidelined.” Despite these challenges, the decision aligns with a broader trend in the wrestling industry to focus on quality over quantity.
The Impact on WWE Programming
WWE SmackDown will officially transition back to its traditional two-hour runtime by mid-2025, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque revealed recently. The Friday night staple, which debuted its first-ever three-hour episode in January, will streamline its programming after a six-month experimental period—a decision praised by fans and analysts alike.
