How WWE's Raw Vs. Smackdown Trope Can Finally Work

Highlights

• WWE's attempts at creating a brand rivalry between SmackDown and RAW have consistently fallen short due to inconsistent rules, lack of exclusivity, and failed follow-through.
• The introduction of general managers on SmackDown brings hope for the brand rivalry as they can enforce exclusivity and maintain individuality.
• To make the SmackDown vs. RAW concept successful, WWE needs to establish a clear division of titles between brands and possibly involve NXT, along with consistent storytelling and character development led by Triple H.

It's a notion that has sparked countless debates. The idea of SmackDown vs. RAW, a brand vs. brand showdown, has consistently teased the imagination of wrestling enthusiasts, promising epic battles and unforgettable moments. Over the years, this trope has been both a source of exhilaration and frustration, as WWE's attempts to execute it have often left fans wanting more. However, recent developments within the world of WWE hint at a potential renaissance, a shift that could see the brand rivalry finally realize its untapped potential. There's an air in the industry going on right now that might just help this trope finally deliver the magic it's capable of generating.

RAW Vs. SmackDown Failed In The Past

For years, WWE's attempts at creating a compelling brand rivalry between SmackDown and RAW have often fallen short. While the concept has shown flashes of brilliance during certain periods, it has largely struggled to sustain fan interest and generate the level of excitement that one might expect from such a storied wrestling promotion. One of the primary reasons for the repeated failure of the SmackDown vs. RAW concept has been WWE's inability to maintain consistent rules and enforcement. The brand split is supposed to create separate identities for RAW and SmackDown, with unique rosters and championships. However, over time, the lines have blurred as superstars frequently cross over from one brand to another without a clear rhyme or reason. Champions, in particular, were notorious for switching brands, making it challenging for fans to invest in the brand rivalry when there was no genuine exclusivity.

Another contributing factor to the trope's lack of success has been WWE's propensity to forget about the brand split shortly after implementing it. Storylines that start with a brand rivalry often devolve into chaos or are abandoned altogether. This lack of follow-through and WWE's short-term memory meant that the brand rivalry lacked continuity and failed to sustain fan engagement. Over time, both RAW and SmackDown would adopt similar storylines, characters, and even titles, diluting the uniqueness of each brand. Sometimes WWE even took it too far in the other extreme by making brand-specific PLEs. There needs to be a balance.

A Promising Change With RAW And SmackDown General Managers

The introduction of general managers on SmackDown has brought new hope to the SmackDown vs. RAW brand rivalry. In the past, general managers played a pivotal role in maintaining the exclusivity and individuality of each brand. They were the authority figures responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations and making crucial decisions regarding talent assignments, match bookings, and brand-specific storylines. However, a recent development on SmackDown hints at a positive shift. Triple H made the right move by appointing Adam Pearce as the general manager of RAW and Nick Aldis as the general manager of SmackDown. The return of general managers, who are essential to enforcing the exclusivity of brands, can be a game-changer.

With the upcoming Survivor Series, a pay-per-view that traditionally features RAW vs. SmackDown matchups, the presence of general managers becomes even more critical. Their role will be instrumental in ensuring that the matches and rivalries for this event truly represent the brand rivalry, as opposed to previous years when the lines between the brands blurred too often.

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What About RAW Vs SmackDown Vs NXT?

WWE's commitment to exclusivity is the linchpin for the success of the SmackDown vs. RAW, brand vs. brand concept. The company currently has an array of championships on the main roster. To make this trope finally work, it is essential to establish a clear division of these titles between the brands, splitting them evenly. To strike a balance between exclusivity and excitement, WWE can allow the men's and women's tag team champions to appear on both shows. This flexibility maintains the possibility of exciting cross-brand tag team matches while still adhering to the overarching brand split. A bold move that could breathe new life into the brand vs. brand trope is introducing NXT into the mix. With Becky Lynch currently holding the NXT Women's Championship, WWE could expand the traditional RAW vs. SmackDown rivalry into a thrilling Triple Brand War, involving NXT.

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All this has been already done in WWE, but there's a reason why it might work this time if done effectively. What sets this attempt apart is the involvement of Triple H in the creative process. Unlike Vince McMahon, who often prioritized short-term storylines and swerves, Triple H has a reputation for building long-term narratives. With him at the helm, WWE has the opportunity to craft compelling and consistent storylines around the brand split. This can lead to deeper character development, more engaging feuds, and a greater sense of investment for both the superstars and the fans.

It's crucial that this is not done just for Survivor Series but all year round. Not only will it create more hype around current top stars, but it will also help get eyes on new stars on all brands especially when crossovers happen at PLEs. Crossovers should be handled very carefully by remaining rare and exciting. It's a fine line to walk as too many crossovers can damage the brand split. Each show will have its top stars and champions, and WWE will become its own thrilling competitive universe.