WWE isn’t wasting any time in 2026.
Next week’s SmackDown will air live on January 2 and marks the show’s official return to a three-hour format. WWE has already announced three major matches for the broadcast, giving fans a preview of what’s coming as the new year begins.
The biggest match announced is a massive 8-woman tag team match. It’s Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, Rhea Ripley, and IYO SKY teaming up against Nia Jax, Lash Legend, Asuka, and Kairi Sane.
Another matchup sees Jade Cargill taking on Michin, with serious consequences. WWE confirmed that if Michin wins, she gets a future title shot.
The third match pits Damian Priest against Aleister Black,
These match announcements come on the heels of SmackDown’s final 2025 episode, which was pre-taped on December 19. Starting January 2, the blue brand goes back to airing live every Friday, now with a full three-hour runtime.
WWE isn’t holding back to start the year. If this is how 2026 begins, the rest could get wild.
Which of these matches are you most looking forward to when SmackDown goes live next week? Do you think moving back to 3 hours is the right call? Drop your thoughts below.
December 26, 2025 9:22 pm
