PWMania.com previously relayed that WWE has revealed in the fast-approaching week’s episode of RAW will begin at 6 PM ET, earlier than the usual 8 PM ET start time. Additionally, citing multiple reports, SmackDown will be taped straight away after RAW — and the following week’s episodes of RAW and SmackDown will be taped on Friday, August 28th.
As reported by a report from Fightful Select, this taping schedule is designed to give the talent. Crew some time off between their summer schedule and the South American tour — which starts on September 9th. Additionally, F4WOnline.com provided further context — noting that having all main talent present at the two tapings allows for “easy access” to include more top stars in the shows.
The regular live schedule for WWE will resume with the September 7th episode of RAW in Birmingham, Alabama, followed by SmackDown on September 11th in Mexico City. Notably, this date coincides with Night One of AAA TripleMania 34 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
After that, Night Two of AAA TripleMania 34 will take place on Sunday, September 13th — in Mexico City, followed by the September 14th show of RAW, additionally from the same city. During this episode, Roman Reigns, known as “The OTC,” will defend his World Heavyweight Prize against the winner of the ongoing #1 Challenger’s tournament.