The split between Raw and SmackDown isn’t just about brands anymore—it’s about backstage perception. And according to a new update, WWE talent are starting to feel the creative difference more than ever.
During the February 9, 2026 Self Made Session, Self Made Pro reported that a growing number of WWE Superstars are frustrated with how creative is being handled across brands. And the issue runs deeper than just not knowing what’s next—it’s about a widening gap between RAW and SmackDown, and which show truly matters.
Self Made Pro cited recent remarks from Roman Reigns that reflect how some top stars are distancing themselves from SmackDown entirely.
“Isn’t it crazy? That Roman’s like, ‘I’m not walking on USA Network SmackDown, bro. I’m just not doing that show no more. We’re done with SmackDown,’” Ibou said, referencing Reigns’ rumored refusal to appear on the blue brand.
With RAW airing on Netflix and SmackDown still on traditional cable on USA Network, talent perception is shifting fast. Self Made Pro made it clear: multiple Superstars are growing tired of the uncertainty, and frustration is building around a creative process that feels increasingly inconsistent.
“I spoke to some people in WWE about a lot of what’s been going on lately, and one of the things I heard was that there’s some creative frustration. A lot of talent are kind of annoyed about not really knowing what their creative is coming up.”
And now, that frustration is turning into a deeper internal understanding—being on RAW or SmackDown doesn’t mean the same thing anymore.
“What has been starting to circulate is the talent understanding the creative difference between RAW and SmackDown. That’s a thing now. There are people who know, like, ‘Oh, I’m on Fridays, alright. Well, we know what that means.’”
Behind the curtain, Friday night is starting to feel like second-tier television—and for wrestlers trying to make their moment count, that’s hitting a nerve. With internal trust in WWE creative already shaken ahead of WrestleMania 42, this RAW vs. SmackDown divide could be another sign that deeper systemic issues are brewing.
Do you think Raw on Netflix has made SmackDown feel second-tier? Or is the locker room just overthinking the WrestleMania shuffle? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear your take.
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