This is both the easiest and best way for WWE to utilise their SmackDown TV time on the USA Network. Raw is often a show that shoves the in-ring wrestling product to the background in order to advance storylines, feature promos and build towards a pay-per-view event with short matches. There's no reason that SmackDown shouldn't move predominantly in the opposite direction. SmackDown could be a show that focuses almost entirely on the in-ring product, apart from a few exclusive angles. The spotlight could be placed on the workers rather than the storylines, with performers such as Cesaro and Neville, who struggle on the mic, given the opportunity to play to their strengths. They are far more at home putting on a 20-minute clinic between the ropes than trying to speak convincingly from a script for the same amount of time. NXT benefited greatly from a focus on wrestling during its meteoric rise as a brand and there's no reason that the USA Network refresh can't do the same for SmackDown. There is a huge portion of the WWE fanbase that is clamouring to see more of a focus on wrestling and SmackDown could see a ratings turnaround if it chooses to cater to that audience.
Freelance film journalist and fan of professional wrestling. Usually found in a darkened screening room looking for an aisle seat and telling people to put away their mobile phones. Also known to do a bit of stand-up comedy, so I'm used to the occasional heckle.