WWE SmackDown is currently struggling with creative issues, resulting in a decline in viewership and fan dissatisfaction. Despite featuring top stars like CM Punk, Cody Rhodes, Gunther, and Kevin Owens, recent episodes have been criticized for uninspired storylines and infrequent live appearances from major talent. The show’s lackluster presentation reached a low point in mid-October 2026, with a significant 17 percent drop in viewers following one of its most panned episodes. Critics highlight that SmackDown feels lifeless and fails to leverage its strong roster effectively.

One key problem WWE faces is underutilizing its biggest stars in live segments. For example, the October 23 episode did not include live appearances by Finn Balor, Gunther, Owens, or Punk, relying instead on pre-taped segments that fail to engage audiences fully. As SmackDown plans to expand back to a three-hour format in January 2027, consistently featuring these top names live will be crucial to maintaining viewer interest. Without depth beyond the main event scene, the show risks losing more audience if the creative team cannot showcase its roster meaningfully each week.

The article also recommends several concrete changes to revitalize SmackDown. It proposes shifting Money in the Bank holder Penta to the blue brand so he can cash in on Sami Zayn, potentially revitalizing the WWE Championship picture and adding excitement. Furthermore, the women's division needs a boost, with suggestions to push returning Rhea Ripley immediately upon her recovery and elevate newcomer Blake Monroe to top title contender status. Both Ripley and Monroe are seen as future stars who could restore credibility and energy to the women's scene on SmackDown.

Finally, the long, drawn-out feud between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton is viewed as stale and unproductive. Their Last Man Standing match at Crown Jewel could bring closure, and a new direction is urged, including a possible heel turn for Rhodes to inject fresh intrigue. Orton might benefit from a move to Raw, helping both brands with star power. Overall, SmackDown needs a mix of better utilization of talent, fresh storylines, and impactful character shifts to overcome its current creative slump.