WWE SmackDown’s USA Network Debut: Match Cut Short Due to Time Constraints

One big thing: SmackDown’s USA Network premiere runs long

WWE SmackDown’s return to USA Network after five years on FOX saw a match cut short due to time constraints.

What happened:

• The show opened with a 40-minute commercial-free segment featuring Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
• Roman Reigns made a surprise return to aid Cody against Solo, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, and Jacob Fatu.
• A subsequent match between Michin and Piper Niven was cut short, barely getting started.

Why it matters:

This incident highlights the challenges of live TV production in wrestling, where main events can sometimes overshadow other planned segments.

By the numbers:

• 40 minutes: Length of the opening segment
• 5 years: Time since SmackDown last aired on USA Network

The big picture:

The premiere episode prioritized star power and storyline development, focusing on Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns. This strategy may set the tone for future shows on the new network.

What’s next:

• A contract signing segment closed the show, setting up Cody and Roman vs. Solo and Jacob at the upcoming Bad Blood event.
• Fans will be watching to see if time management improves in future episodes.

What do you think about WWE’s decision to cut a match short for time? Was it the right call to focus on the main event storyline? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.