WWE will be scheduling several upcoming pre-taped episodes across both SmackDown and RAW due to the busy holiday season and logistical needs, with these tapings set to occur in various cities before the actual air dates. Here’s a detailed look at each planned pre-tape:
1. November 29th Episode of SmackDown
This episode of SmackDown is scheduled to be pre-taped during the November 22nd broadcast of SmackDown, taking place in Salt Lake City, Utah. Fans attending the live taping on November 22nd will get to witness the content for two episodes, with the first being aired as usual on that date and the pre-taped content set for the following week. By handling the November 29th episode in advance, WWE can ensure fans still get an uninterrupted broadcast, even as the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S. impacts regular taping schedules. Given that this show will take place shortly after the Survivor Series Premium Live Event, it’s possible WWE will incorporate post-event storylines to maintain momentum heading into December. This allows WWE to preemptively script and execute storylines for SmackDown and accommodate potential holiday scheduling challenges for their roster.
2. December 20th Episode of SmackDown
Another SmackDown episode is slated for pre-taping on December 13th, taking place in Hartford, Connecticut. This pre-taped broadcast will eventually air on December 20th, allowing WWE to bypass holiday conflicts closer to Christmas. For fans attending the Hartford show on December 13th, it will be a unique experience as they’ll witness content crafted for an episode airing a week later. WWE’s timing here helps to ensure a consistent TV lineup without last-minute production or travel obstacles around the busy holiday season. Additionally, fans can expect some long-term storyline progressions in this episode, setting the stage for WWE’s New Year programming and likely incorporating elements to lead into any January events, such as the Royal Rumble. It also helps WWE’s talent avoid extensive holiday travel while keeping storylines fresh for fans tuning in from home.
3. December 23rd Episode of RAW
WWE is also preparing to pre-tape the December 23rd episode of RAW on December 16th, during the live RAW broadcast from Boston, Massachusetts. This pre-taped segment will ensure that WWE’s RAW lineup stays intact as Christmas approaches, a time when both WWE’s performers and production crew typically aim for reduced travel. December 23rd will mark one of the final RAW shows before the new year, so fans tuning in will likely see plotlines intensify and hints dropped for upcoming 2025 plans. The episode may include several holiday-themed matches or segments, as WWE has a tradition of incorporating festive content and special themed events around this time.
By pre-taping these episodes, WWE is implementing a proactive approach to holiday scheduling, ensuring that talent and production staff have flexibility, while also maintaining consistent weekly content for fans. This plan benefits everyone involved—performers, crew, and fans—by avoiding last-minute taping challenges, especially during the packed end-of-year period.
These pre-taped episodes also allow WWE to control spoilers and plan for impactful storylines that can seamlessly lead into key events. For the viewing audience, these episodes will air as if they were live, creating a smooth experience while granting WWE’s talent some well-deserved respite. As these dates approach, fans may also speculate on potential surprises or developments WWE could be planning, knowing that the company often saves some big moments for televised pre-taped content.