WWE SmackDown officially returns to a three-hour format on January 2, 2026, from KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, featuring multiple high-stakes matches to kick off the new year.
Announced Matches for January 2:
- Ambulance Match: Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black
- 8-Woman Tag Team Match: Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, Rhea Ripley & IYO SKY vs. Nia Jax, Lash Legend, Asuka & Kairi Sane
- Singles Match: Jade Cargill vs. Michin (if Michin wins, she earns a future title shot)
The headlining Ambulance Match between Priest and Black was announced via WWE's social media on December 27. This brutal stipulation is expected to serve as the blow-off to their months-long rivalry that has included a Last Man Standing Match and multiple weapons-based confrontations.
The women's division showcase brings together former rivals and champions in an unlikely alliance, with Bliss, Flair, Ripley and Sky uniting against the heel faction.
The January 2 episode airs live at 8 PM ET on USA Network.
