Update on “Smackdown” Moving in January; Why Move May Have Been Delayed

A recent press release by Syfy has led to more speculation regarding WWE’s second most-viewed program, “Smackdown,” moving to a new night, likely Thursday night. The press release noted that its new show, “12 Monkeys” will debut on Friday, Jan. 16, 2015 at 9 p.m. EST. This is the same time that the second hour of “Smackdown” airs, which is why the rumors have been rejuvenated.

PWInsider has published a report on the matter, noting that WWE sources have confirmed “Smackdown” will move to a new night in January. The move, which was originally planned for October of 2014, was reportedly held off due to CBS and the NFL launching “Thursday Night Football.” Its viewership is on par with ESPN’s “Monday Night Football,” which has been a catalyst in “Monday Night Raw” receiving some of its lowest viewership in all of 2014.

While the new night has not been confirmed, many in WWE do believe “Smackdown” will move to Thursday nights. Even further, the feeling within WWE is that past moves by the company, including a WWE production truck advertising “Smackdown” airing on Thursday nights, were in line with WWE’s previous plans. Though, the plans were held off when the company found out that CBS would be airing NFL games on that same night.

Editor’s Note

While I wanted WWE to move “Smackdown” as soon as possible, I completely understand why the move was put on hold. It’s best to wait until January so “Smackdown” begins its transition without such stiff competition. When reports first surfaced, I was surprised that WWE was going to move the show to Thursday nights, going head-to-head with the NFL two nights a week.