WWE Considering Ending Dual-Brand PPVs and Extending Length

WWE is reportedly considering making all PPVs dual-branded and extending their three hour PPVs to four hours, according to this week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

Nothing is official yet and WWE has yet to inform their roster of any plans to change PPVs into dual brand events, according to PWInsider. However, WWE officials told the Wrestling Observer that an announcement would be made shortly.

A reason for the possible change is the increased cost of running more PPVs without generating enough new revenue or much of an increase in WWE Network subscriptions.

WWE has 14 PPVs scheduled this year, but may eventually move back down to 12.

If the PPVs will be dual-branded, the expectation is that the length would be extended by one hour, from three to four, to ensure enough time for both rosters. The Kickoff Show would likely remain at one hour, with two matches.

Dave Meltzer pointed out that one big trade-off would be a lot less time available for the undercard roster on both PPVs and regular television. Another trade-off will likely be some championships being relegated to pre-show status due to the company currently having too many belts needing to be defended.

It’s rumored that this change may begin with WWE Backlash on May 6, which will be the first PPV after WrestleMania.