Reason Why 6/19 WWE SmackDown Was Commercial-Free For First Hour Was Precautionary Measure Due To NBA Finals
The reason why SmackDown was commercial-free for the first hour.
The opening match of the June 19th edition of Friday Night SmackDown was Sami Zayn guest refereeing the Undisputed WWE Championship match between GUNTHER and the champion Cody Rhodes.
The first hour of the show was commercial-free as a precautionary measure in case the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs went to a game seven.
“The reason that Gunther vs Cody Rhodes was commercial-free on WWE SmackDown was a precautionary measure due to the NBA Finals, in case it went 7 games, @WrestleVotes Radio on @FightfulSelect reports.
The decision was made well in advance.”
The reason that Gunther vs Cody Rhodes was commercial-free on WWE SmackDown was a precautionary measure due to the NBA Finals, in case it went 7 games, @WrestleVotes Radio on @FightfulSelect reports.
The decision was made well in advance. pic.twitter.com/uFxhgZUYZk
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) June 25, 2026
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