WWE announces big changes to SmackDown

WWE Smackdown is going to air live with its own roster of wrestlers.

WWE is mixing things up with some pretty big changes to SmackDown. 

Starting in July, SmackDown is moving to a live timeslot on USA Network and will feature a roster of performers distinct from Raw. The rosters will be set after “an imminent Superstar draft.”

The first live edition of SmackDown will be July 19 and it’ll air at 8 p.m. ET every week of the year. 

Stephanie and Shane McMahon are already vying for control of the new show. 

“WWE’s flagship programs will both leverage the incredible depth of our talent roster, distinct storylines and the unpredictable nature of live TV,” Vince McMahon said in a statement. “This move will undoubtedly build more excitement and deepen engagement with our fans around th­e world.”