Friday Night SmackDown Tonight marks the first SmackDown episode of 2026 and the return of the show’s three-hour format. WWE has announced multiple matches for the January 2 episode, including a major eight-woman tag team bout, a singles match with title implications, and a continuation of a long-running rivalry.
The Friday Night SmackDown episode will air live and is expected to set the direction for SmackDown as WWE begins the new year.
What Time Is Friday Night SmackDown Tonight?
For viewers asking what time is Friday Night SmackDown tonight, the January 2, 2026 episode is scheduled to air live at:
- United States: 8:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CT / 5:00 PM PT
- Canada: 8:00 PM ET
- United Kingdom: Early hours of Saturday morning
- India: Saturday morning local time
In the United States, Friday Night SmackDown Tonight will air live on USA Network. International viewers can watch SmackDown via Netflix, with start times adjusted to local time zones.
Where Is Friday Night SmackDown Tonight?
WWE SmackDown will take place live from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. The arena is a regular stop for televised WWE events and will host the first live SmackDown broadcast of 2026.
Announced Matches For Friday Night SmackDown Tonight
WWE has confirmed the lineups for the following matches for the January 2 episode:
- Eight-Woman Tag Team Match:
Alexa Bliss, Charlotte, Rhea Ripley & IYO SKY vs Nia Jax, Lash Legend, Asuka & Kairi Sane - Jade Cargill vs Michin
If Michin wins, she earns a future title opportunity - Damian Priest vs Aleister Black
The January 2 broadcast will also be the first SmackDown to air in a three-hour format, beginning this week.
Friday Night SmackDown Preview
With SmackDown returning to extended runtime, Friday Night SmackDown Tonight is expected to feature longer matches, more storyline progression and increased roster involvement. The continuation of the Damian Priest–Aleister Black rivalry and the high-profile women’s tag match are set to headline the night as WWE kicks off 2026.
