
Fri Jan 09 21:50:00 UTC 2026: # WWE SmackDown from Berlin to Air on Tape Delay in the US, Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre Headlines
The Story:
WWE’s SmackDown emanating from Berlin on January 9, 2026, will air on tape delay in the United States at its usual time of 8 p.m. ET on USA, despite being streamed live on Netflix for most of the globe. This means spoilers will be available for U.S. viewers who seek them out. The show is headlined by a “Three Stages of Hell” match between current WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, alongside other notable matchups including Trick Williams vs. Rey Fenix, and a tag team feud involving The Wyatt Sicks and The MFTs.
Key Points:
- WWE SmackDown from Berlin airs January 9, 2026, streamed live on Netflix (excluding the US).
- U.S. broadcast airs on tape delay at 8 p.m. ET on USA.
- Main event: Cody Rhodes defends the WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre in a “Three Stages of Hell” match.
- Trick Williams faces Rey Fenix.
- The Wyatt Sicks and The MFTs continue their tag team rivalry.
Key Takeaways:
- WWE continues to experiment with broadcast strategies, utilizing streaming platforms like Netflix for live global distribution while maintaining traditional television airings in the US.
- The tape-delay broadcast for US audiences creates a potential for spoilers, influencing viewership habits.
- The Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre match suggests a continued focus on established rivalries and championship storylines.