50 Facts About WWE Friday Night Smackdown

The Birth of WWE Friday Night SmackDown

WWE Friday Night SmackDown has been a cornerstone of professional wrestling since its inception. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its origins and early days.

1. Origin and Name: The Rock named the show, wanting a title that reflected the brand's intensity and energy. "SmackDown" signifies a decisive blow, embodying the wrestlers' competitive spirit.

2. Initial Concept: The first episode was meant to be an all-women's show. This idea was later scrapped, and it became a platform for both male and female wrestlers.

3. Launch Date: The inaugural episode aired on April 29, 1999, on UPN. This marked a significant moment in WWE history, introducing a second weekly brand to compete with Monday Night Raw.

4. Brand Extension: SmackDown's creation was part of WWE's brand extension strategy, aiming to create separate rosters and storylines for each brand. This move increased viewer interest and engagement.

Evolution and Network Changes

SmackDown has undergone several transformations, including changes in its airing schedule and network.

5. Move to Friday Nights: Initially airing on Thursday nights, SmackDown moved to Friday nights on September 9, 2005. This change helped the show capitalize on the growing Friday night audience.

6. Network Changes: Over the years, SmackDown has switched networks multiple times. It moved from UPN to The CW in 2006, then to MyNetworkTV in 2008, Syfy in 2010, and back to Thursday nights on Syfy in 2015. The show returned to Friday nights on the USA Network in 2016 and later moved to Fox in 2019 before returning to the USA Network in 2024.

7. International Broadcasts: SmackDown has been broadcast from over 100 arenas, 100 cities and towns, and nine countries, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Mexico, France, Saudi Arabia, and Germany.

8. Live Format: Before switching to its current live format, taped episodes premiered a few hours earlier in Ireland and the United Kingdom due to time differences.

Celebrations and Cultural Impact

SmackDown has celebrated numerous milestones and made a significant cultural impact.

9. Anniversary Celebrations: SmackDown celebrated its 15th anniversary on October 10, 2014, and the 1000th episode on October 16, 2018. These milestones highlighted the show's enduring popularity and impact on professional wrestling.

10. Opening Themes: The show has had several opening themes over the years. The first version was an instrumental composed by Jim Johnston, used only on September 23, 2004, for SmackDown's 5th Anniversary. Another version, "Rise Up 2006," was performed by Ryan McCombs and used from March 24, 2006.

11. Cultural References: On July 10, 2007, Merriam-Webster added "SmackDown" to its dictionary, recognizing its cultural significance in American television.

The SmackDown Live Era and Beyond

The SmackDown Live era brought significant changes to the show's format and content.

12. SmackDown Live Era: From 2016 to 2019, the show was known as SmackDown Live. This period saw more live events and a focus on building towards major pay-per-view events.

13. Fox Era: When SmackDown moved to Fox in 2019, it marked a return to over-the-air broadcast television and Friday nights. This move aimed to increase viewership and reach a broader audience.

14. USA Network Return: On September 13, 2024, SmackDown will return to the USA Network, marking another chapter in its network history.

The SmackDown Roster and Championships

SmackDown's roster and championships have been integral to its success.

15. SmackDown Roster: The show features characters from the SmackDown brand, with WWE employees assigned to work and perform. This roster includes a diverse range of wrestlers, from established stars to up-and-coming talent.

16. Flagship Program: SmackDown is considered one of WWE's two flagship programs, along with Monday Night Raw. Both shows are integral to WWE's success and longevity in the professional wrestling industry.

17. Historical Significance: SmackDown has played a crucial role in shaping WWE's history. It has been the platform for many memorable moments, including title changes, shocking twists, and iconic matches.

18. Championships: Over the years, SmackDown has seen numerous championship reigns. The show has been home to many title holders, including the WWE Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and other divisional titles.

19. SmackDown Tag Team Championship: Introduced in 2016, the SmackDown Tag Team Championship has been a significant part of the show's history. This title has seen many memorable reigns and matches, often featuring top teams in the WWE.

20. US Title Reigns: SmackDown has also been the platform for many US Title reigns. The show has seen a variety of wrestlers hold this title, each contributing to the rich history of the championship.

Women's Division and Tag Teams

SmackDown has been pivotal in the development of WWE's women's division and tag team wrestling.

21. Women's Division: SmackDown has played a crucial role in the development of WWE's women's division. The show has featured many female wrestlers who have gone on to become icons in the industry, including names like Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, and Ronda Rousey.

22. SmackDown Women's Championship: Introduced in 2016, the SmackDown Women's Championship has been a significant part of the show's history. This title has seen many memorable reigns and matches, often featuring top female wrestlers in the WWE.

23. SmackDown Tag Team Champions: The SmackDown Tag Team Champions have been a staple of the show. Teams like The Usos, The New Day, and The Revival have all held this title, contributing to the rich history of tag team wrestling on SmackDown.

24. SmackDown Women's Champions: The SmackDown Women's Champions have also made significant contributions to the show. Women like Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, and Becky Lynch have all held this title, each leaving their mark on the WWE women's division.

Iconic Superstars and Memorable Moments

SmackDown has featured a diverse range of superstars and unforgettable moments.

25. SmackDown Superstars: Over the years, SmackDown has featured a diverse range of superstars. From legendary names like The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin to modern-day stars like Roman Reigns and Sasha Banks, the show has consistently delivered high-quality performances.

26. SmackDown Legends: The show has also been home to many wrestling legends. Names like Eddie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio, and Edge have all made significant contributions to SmackDown's history, each leaving their mark on the WWE universe.

27. SmackDown Moments: SmackDown has been the platform for many memorable moments in WWE history. From shocking twists and turns to iconic matches and title changes, the show has consistently delivered moments that fans will never forget.

Rivalries and Storylines

The rivalries and storylines on SmackDown have captivated audiences for years.

28. SmackDown vs. Raw: The rivalry between SmackDown and Monday Night Raw has been a defining aspect of WWE's history. Both shows have pushed each other to new heights, creating some of the most memorable moments in professional wrestling.

29. SmackDown Storylines: The show's storylines have been a key factor in its success. From epic feuds to dramatic twists, SmackDown's storylines have captivated audiences and kept them engaged week after week.

Pay-Per-View Events and Live Shows

SmackDown has been a precursor to many major pay-per-view events and live shows.

30. SmackDown Pay-Per-View Events: SmackDown has been the precursor to many major pay-per-view events. The show often builds towards these events, creating anticipation and excitement among fans.

31. SmackDown Live Events: The show has also been a platform for live events. SmackDown has traveled extensively, hosting live shows in various cities and countries around the world.

Ratings and International Reach

Despite the rise of other entertainment options, SmackDown remains a popular show with a significant international reach.

32. SmackDown Ratings: Despite the rise of other entertainment options, SmackDown remains one of the most watched television shows on Friday nights in the United States. Its consistent ratings are a testament to its enduring popularity.

33. SmackDown International Reach: The show's international reach is significant. SmackDown is broadcast in multiple countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Mexico, France, Saudi Arabia, and Germany.

Fan Engagement and Community

SmackDown has a dedicated fan base that actively engages with the show.

34. SmackDown Fan Engagement: The show has a dedicated fan base. Fans actively engage with the show through social media, attending live events, and participating in various fan activities.

35. SmackDown Community: The SmackDown community is known for its passion and dedication. Fans often create their own content, share theories, and discuss the latest developments in the show's storylines.

Impact on Pop Culture and WWE

SmackDown has had a significant impact on pop culture and WWE's overall strategy.

36. SmackDown Impact on Pop Culture: SmackDown has had a significant impact on pop culture. The show has been referenced in various forms of media, including music, film, and television.

37. SmackDown Influence on WWE: The show has influenced WWE's overall strategy. SmackDown has been instrumental in shaping WWE's brand extension policy, which has led to the creation of multiple brands and storylines.

Legacy and Future Prospects

SmackDown's legacy extends beyond its current format, contributing to WWE's future plans.

38. SmackDown Legacy: SmackDown's legacy extends beyond its current format. The show has played a crucial role in shaping WWE's history, contributing to the development of many wrestlers and storylines that continue to influence the industry today.

39. SmackDown Future Prospects: As the show continues to evolve, it remains an integral part of WWE's future plans. With its consistent ratings and dedicated fan base, SmackDown is poised to remain a flagship program for years to come.

Rivalries and Revolutions

SmackDown has been at the forefront of rivalries and revolutions in professional wrestling.

40. SmackDown vs. AEW: The rivalry between SmackDown and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has been a significant aspect of professional wrestling in recent years. Both shows have pushed each other to new heights, creating some of the most memorable moments in the industry.

41. SmackDown Women's Revolution: The women's division on SmackDown has been at the forefront of WWE's women's revolution. The show has featured many female wrestlers who have become icons in the industry, advocating for greater representation and equality.

42. SmackDown Tag Team Revolution: The tag team division on SmackDown has also seen significant growth. The show has featured many top tag teams, each contributing to the rich history of tag team wrestling in WWE.

Champions and Legends

SmackDown has seen numerous champions and legends who have left their mark on the show.

43. SmackDown Champions: Over the years, SmackDown has seen numerous champions. From legendary names like The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin to modern-day stars like Roman Reigns and Sasha Banks, the show has consistently delivered high-quality performances.

44. SmackDown Legends: The show has also been home to many wrestling legends. Names like Eddie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio, and Edge have all made significant contributions to SmackDown's history, each leaving their mark on the WWE universe.

Iconic Moments and Storylines

SmackDown has been the platform for many iconic moments and captivating storylines.

45. SmackDown Moments: SmackDown has been the platform for many memorable moments in WWE history. From shocking twists and turns to iconic matches and title changes, the show has consistently delivered moments that fans will never forget.

46. SmackDown Storylines: The show's storylines have been a key factor in its success. From epic feuds to dramatic twists, SmackDown's storylines have captivated audiences and kept them engaged week after week.

Pay-Per-View Events and Live Shows

SmackDown has been a precursor to many major pay-per-view events and live shows.

47. SmackDown Pay-Per-View Events: SmackDown has been the precursor to many major pay-per-view events. The show often builds towards these events, creating anticipation and excitement among fans.

48. SmackDown Live Events: The show has also been a platform for live events. SmackDown has traveled extensively, hosting live shows in various cities and countries around the world.

Ratings and International Reach

Despite the rise of other entertainment options, SmackDown remains a popular show with a significant international reach.

49. SmackDown Ratings: Despite the rise of other entertainment options, SmackDown remains one of the most watched television shows on Friday nights in the United States. Its consistent ratings are a testament to its enduring popularity.

50. SmackDown International Reach: The show's international reach is significant. SmackDown is broadcast in multiple countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Mexico, France, Saudi Arabia, and Germany.

SmackDown's Enduring Legacy

WWE Friday Night SmackDown isn't just a show; it's a cornerstone of professional wrestling. From its debut in 1999 to its current status, SmackDown has consistently delivered unforgettable moments, epic storylines, and legendary matches. The move to different networks, including its upcoming return to the USA Network in 2024, shows its adaptability and enduring appeal. With a rich history of iconic wrestlers and groundbreaking events, SmackDown has shaped WWE's landscape and continues to captivate fans worldwide. Its influence extends beyond the ring, impacting pop culture and setting standards in sports entertainment. As SmackDown evolves, it remains a vital part of WWE's future, promising more excitement and memorable moments for years to come. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the show, SmackDown's legacy is undeniable and ever-growing.