Does WWE Still Have SmackDown and Raw?By Coder| September 29, 2023 Wrestling Blogs Does WWE Still Have SmackDown and Raw? World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is a global phenomenon that has entertained millions of fans for decades. With its larger-than-life characters, intense storylines, and jaw-dropping matches, WWE has captured the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts around the world. Two of its flagship shows, SmackDown and Raw, have become household names in the industry. But do they still exist? Let’s dive into the current state of these iconic WWE brands. The Brand Split In 2002, WWE introduced the brand split, which divided its roster into two separate entities: SmackDown and Raw. This move aimed to create competition between the two shows and provide more opportunities for wrestlers to shine. Each brand had its own unique set of championships and storylines, creating distinct identities for both shows. The Evolution of SmackDown SmackDown, often referred to as “The Blue Brand,” was initially launched as a Thursday night show but later moved to Friday nights. Over the years, it has showcased some incredible talent and unforgettable moments. From the emergence of superstars like The Rock and John Cena to iconic matches such as Eddie Guerrero vs. Brock Lesnar at No Way Out 2004, SmackDown has left an indelible mark on WWE history. Underline text: SmackDown has always been known for its fast-paced action and compelling storylines. Bold text: The brand continues to produce top-tier matches that keep fans on the edge of their seats. List item: Superstars like Roman Reigns, Sasha Banks, and Daniel Bryan have recently made SmackDown their home. The Legacy of Raw Raw, also known as “The Red Brand,” is WWE’s longest-running weekly episodic television program. Since its inception in 1993, Raw has been a breeding ground for legendary rivalries and unforgettable moments. The show has witnessed countless championship changes, shocking returns, and the birth of iconic factions like D-Generation X and The Shield. Underline text: Raw continues to be the flagship show of WWE, providing fans with three hours of non-stop entertainment every Monday night. Bold text: The brand showcases a mix of established superstars and rising talent from WWE’s developmental system, NXT. List item: Legendary wrestlers like Randy Orton, Drew McIntyre, and Charlotte Flair currently call Raw their home. The Current Landscape In recent years, WWE has made some changes to its brand split format. While SmackDown and Raw still exist as separate shows, they have become more interconnected than ever before. Superstars occasionally move between brands through draft or wildcard rules, allowing for fresh matchups and unexpected alliances. This crossover has enhanced the overall viewing experience for fans. The introduction of pay-per-view events featuring both brands has further blurred the lines between SmackDown and Raw. Events like WrestleMania, Survivor Series, and Royal Rumble showcase interbrand matches that ignite excitement among fans who eagerly await clashes between their favorite superstars from different shows. It is evident that SmackDown and Raw still play significant roles in WWE’s programming. Despite changes to the brand split structure, both shows continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their unique storytelling styles and high-quality matches. In Conclusion So, to answer the question – “Does WWE still have SmackDown and Raw?” – the answer is a resounding yes. These two flagship shows remain at the core of WWE’s programming, offering fans a weekly dose of thrilling wrestling action. Whether you’re a fan of the high-energy atmosphere of SmackDown or the long-standing legacy of Raw, there’s something for everyone in the world of WWE.
