With Smackdown going live on Tuesday nights, it seems that WWE will once again do a brand split as Variety is also reporting that a draft will be held before the first live Smackdown to determine who will appear on what show.
The story says that each show will feature a different cast and writing teams, bringing back the in-house competition that the company lacks at the time being. Raw and Smackdown will most likely be run by the McMahon kids, each getting a show for storyline purposes.
“WWE’s flagship programs will both leverage the incredible depth of our talent roster, distinct storylines and the unpredictable nature of live TV,” said WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon. “This move will undoubtedly build more excitement and deepen engagement with our fans around the world.”
It’s unclear how titles will be spread and defended and if the World title will be back for the brand that doesn’t get the WWE World Heavyweight title. It could be that WWE will run with one heavyweight title that is defended on both shows which means the champion will be pulling double duty.
WWE originally did the brand extension in 2002 after WrestleMania X8 and then it was decided to discontinue the brand split in August 2011, putting everyone on the same roster again.
