USA Network has confirmed that WWE Smackdown will be debuting on their network this January 7. They describe the premiere as a "live action WWE Powerhouse." However, it isn't clear if that will mean airing the episode live. WWE tape the show on Tuesday nights. It could be that USA are just describing the content as "live action" in terms of the matches. The show will be airing at 8pm eastern, with a 10pm finish time. The debut will be the 855th episode, coming from Laredo, Texas. This means that USA will now be the exclusive cable home to WWE's two biggest brands. Viewers will be able to watch Raw on Monday from 8-11, with Smackdown on the same channel later in the week in the Thursday 8-10 slot. It is a good move for WWE, one which they are going to support by giving the Smackdown brand a major push. Viewers should expect stronger offerings in terms of matches and segments. As for the rumours of it going live, USA did say "live action powerhouse" so maybe that could be an option. The problem is that taping on a Thursday would have major implications for WWE's touring schedule and wrestler's assigned time off.
