WWE SmackDown has been electrifying wrestling fans since its 1999 debut, standing as WWE’s second flagship show behind Raw. Today, the blue brand airs live every Friday night on USA Network in the US, while Netflix streams it globally in over 50 countries. From traditional TV broadcasts to digital platforms and free streaming options, this guide covers the answer to where to watch WWE SmackDown worldwide, ensuring you never miss the high-flying action and dramatic storylines.
WWE SmackDown Stream
WWE SmackDown airs every Friday at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT on USA Network in the United States. Other than this, it can be streamed online on Netflix across the world. It has been streamed on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the past, but it is now labeled as Friday Night SmackDown.
Watching WWE SmackDown Live (Traditional TV)
United States SmackDown Stream
WWE SmackDown airs live every Friday night on USA Network in the following US regions:
Contiguous United States (48 states)
SmackDown broadcasts at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT on USA Network, available through most cable and satellite providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, DirecTV, Dish Network, and Verizon Fios. Viewers should check local listings for any regional variations.
Alaska & Hawaii
Due to time zone differences, USA Network airs SmackDown on a tape delay in Alaska and Hawaii. Typically, the show airs at 6 PM AKST (Alaska) and 7 PM HST (Hawaii). Some providers may offer East Coast feeds for live viewing—check with your cable/satellite provider for options.
Puerto Rico
USA Network is available in Puerto Rico through major cable providers like Liberty Puerto Rico, DIRECTV, and Dish Network. SmackDown airs at the same time as the Eastern US (8 PM ET/7 PM CT). Spanish commentary may be available via secondary audio (SAP).
International Countries
WWE SmackDown is available on Netflix in select regions, airing on Saturdays (typically the day after the live Friday broadcast in the US). This streaming option provides fans with an easy way to catch up on the latest episodes without needing a traditional TV subscription.
Regions Where SmackDown Streams on Netflix
Americas: Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru
Canada
Europe: Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom
Middle East & Africa: Egypt, Israel, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia
Asia-Pacific: Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka
New episodes are added weekly on Saturdays, though exact release times may vary by region. Netflix may offer multiple audio tracks and subtitles, including local language dubs where available. If you already have a Netflix subscription, SmackDown is included at no extra charge.
In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
WWE SmackDown is available for free on BILD, one of Germany’s largest news platforms. Here’s what you need to know: Platform: BILD.de (website) or the BILD app (available on iOS and Android). SmackDown airs on delay, typically shortly after the US broadcast (Friday nights). Exact upload times may vary, but episodes are usually available by Saturday.
It is cost-free (no subscription required, but ads may be included). The broadcast is in English with German subtitles (no full German dub). Some highlights and clips may also be available in BILD’s sports section.
Other Remaining Countries
Belgium and France: You can watch WWE SmackDown on the AB1 network
Cambodia: Watch WWE SmackDown on Hang Meas HDTV
Bulgaria: SmackDown streams on Nova Sport
Caribbean: Watch WWE SmackDown on Rush Prime
Italy: SmackDown streams on DMAX
Japan: Watch WWE SmackDown on Abema
Philipines: Catch SmackDown live on TAP Sports
South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa: Catch SmackDown on Supersport
South Korea: Watch WWE SmackDown on IB Sports
WWE SmackDown Streaming History
WWE SmackDown has shifted its streaming to multiple networks over the years. Initially, it began on the United Paramount Network (UPN), where it aired from 1999 to 2006. From 2006-2008, The CW Network began to stream SmackDown and went to MyNetworkTV for two years after that. Syfy hosted it from 2010 to 2015.
The show began getting appreciated when it shifted to USA Network in 2016. The brand split was introduced in WWE, and SmackDown came up as a land of opportunities for several new superstars. This stint on USA Network lasted till 2019. In 2019, SmackDown was able to grab its biggest deal to date with FOX Network. It was a game-changer move, and the blue brand became the flagship show at the time, beating Raw in ratings almost every week.
SmackDown came back to USA Network in 2024 in what was revealed as a five-year deal. Other than the US, the show is streamed on Netflix. WWE had a $5bn and a 10-year deal with the biggest streaming platform in the world, Netflix, to kick off this year. Netflix is the new home for WWE.
Last Thoughts on Where to Watch WWE SmackDown
You have got tons of ways to watch SmackDown these days. If you are old-school, USA Network’s got your Friday night wrestling fix. Netflix is showing it in most countries now. And for my German and African friends – BILD and SuperSport have your back with free or same-week broadcasts. Honestly, between cable, streaming apps, and free channels, there is no excuse to miss John Cena’s latest drama or LA Knight’s mic drop moments.
FAQS for Where to Watch WWE SmackDown
Where can I watch WWE SmackDown live in the US?
You can catch SmackDown live every Friday at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT on USA Network through cable providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, or DirecTV. Alaska and Hawaii get it on delay at 6 PM AKST and 7 PM HST, respectively.
Is SmackDown available on Netflix?
Yes! Netflix streams SmackDown in 50+ countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe/Asia. New episodes drop on Saturdays (the day after US airing). Just check if your country’s Netflix includes WWE content.
How can I watch for free in Germany?
German, Austrian, and Swiss fans can watch SmackDown for free on BILD.de or the BILD app (with English audio and German subtitles). Episodes usually arrive by Saturday morning with some ads.
What if my country isn’t on the Netflix list?
Many countries have local broadcasters:
• SuperSport in Africa
• DMAX in Italy
• TAP Sports in the Philippines
• Abema in Japan
Check WWE’s official site for your local provider.
Why did SmackDown move back to USA Network?
After 5 years on Fox (2019-2024), SmackDown returned to USA Network in a new 5-year deal. Meanwhile, WWE’s massive $5 billion Netflix deal made it the global streaming home starting in 2024.
