In December 2024, WWE brought back its iconic Saturday Night’s Main Event show, giving fans a burst of nostalgia while fitting with the promotion’s sleek modern-day presentation. A second show is scheduled for later this month in San Antonio, Texas and now two more dates have been confirmed. Peacock has updated its WWE Premium Live Events Schedule to reveal two new episodes of Saturday Night’s Main Event on the following dates:
May 24, 2025
July 12, 2025
Interestingly, both of these dates may conflict with two of AEW’s biggest shows of the year.
May 24, 2025 takes place over Memorial Day weekend. While AEW hasn’t announced a show on this date as of press time, the holiday weekend has played host to AEW Double or Nothing since the company’s launch in 2019.
The July 12, 2025 episode of SNME will go head-to-head with AEW All Out: Texas, scheduled to be AEW’s largest event in the United States to date.
As Tony Khan looks ahead and plans out the next few months of storylines, he now has extra motivation to deliver the best possible product to minimize damage to AEW PPV buys amid stiff competition from WWE PLE airing on broadcast television in the United States.
Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME) was one of the WWF’s most iconic shows during the 1980s and early 1990s. Packed with thrilling matches, shocking betrayals, and legendary moments, SNME delivered high-stakes drama before Monday Night Raw took over and the company would run a full weekly show. Here are the biggest Saturday Night’s Main Event moments ever, ranked!
5. The Steel Cage Double-Finish (1987)
Hulk Hogan’s title reign was nearly derailed in a steel cage match against Paul Orndorff. Both men escaped the cage simultaneously, leading to a controversial double-finish. After a restart, Hogan secured his victory, keeping his championship reign alive.
4. Mr. Perfect Destroys the WWF Title (1989)
Mr. Perfect cemented himself as a top heel by attacking Hulk Hogan’s pride. After aiding The Genius in defeating Hogan, Perfect snatched the WWF title and smashed it with a hammer. This act of destruction ensured Perfect got Hogan’s attention and ignited a fierce rivalry.
3. Shawn Michaels Wins His First Singles Title (1992)
In a landmark moment for the future “Heartbreak Kid,” Shawn Michaels captured his first singles gold by defeating The British Bulldog for the Intercontinental Championship. Using a brutal strategy that targeted Bulldog’s injured back, Michaels proved he was ready for superstardom.
2. Hulk Hogan Superplexes The Big Boss Man (1989)
Hulk Hogan and The Big Boss Man’s steel cage clash gave fans one of the most jaw-dropping moments. Hogan superplexed the 350-pound Boss Man from the top of the cage — an incredible feat for the time. The visual of two massive bodies crashing to the mat remains one of SNME’s most iconic highlights.
1. The Mega Powers Form (1987)
One of the most unforgettable alliances in wrestling history formed during SNME. Randy Savage was being ambushed by The Honky Tonk Man and The Hart Foundation when Miss Elizabeth sought help from Hulk Hogan. The Hulkster stormed the ring, aiding Savage, and after a tense stare-down, the two shook hands, creating the legendary “Mega Powers” team.
In an unexpected twist of television history, the iconic sitcom Seinfeld owes part of its existence to an unlikely source: WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event. This revelation, shared by Jerry Seinfeld himself, sheds new light on the origins of one of the most beloved comedy series of all time.
The Unlikely Connection Between Wrestling and Comedy
Jerry Seinfeld disclosed on The Rich Eisen Show back in May 2024 that WWE played a crucial role in the creation of Seinfeld. The connection stems from a decision made by NBC executive Rick Ludwin, who saw potential in the fledgling “show about nothing” when others were skeptical.
“Ludwin said, You know what, I think this show isn’t that bad. Everyone disliked it. And Rick Ludwin said I’m gonna take some moeny from Saturday Night Wrestling [sic]. In those days professional wrestling replaced Saturday Night Live once a month. And he took the money from one of those, and it was enough money for us to make four episodes. We made four episodes, they still didn’t like it…”
NBC’s Gamble: From Ringside to Primetime
Ludwin made a bold move by reallocating funds from the once-a-month wrestling show, Saturday Night’s Main Event, to finance the production of four episodes of “Seinfeld”.
This decision proved to be a pivotal moment in television history, giving the sitcom the opportunity it needed to prove its worth.
The Birth of a Comedy Legend
Despite initial doubts from network executives, the four episodes produced with the wrestling show’s budget were enough to secure “Seinfeld” a place in NBC’s lineup.
This unconventional funding strategy allowed Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David to showcase their unique brand of humor and launch what would become a cultural phenomenon.
From Underdog to Television Icon
Seinfeld went on to become one of the most successful sitcoms in television history. The show’s characters – Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer – became household names, and their misadventures captivated audiences for nine seasons.
The Legacy of Seinfeld and WWE’s Indirect Contribution
The success of Seinfeld not only revolutionized the sitcom genre but also demonstrated the potential for unconventional programming decisions.
The show’s journey from a struggling pilot to a ratings juggernaut is a testament to the power of taking risks in television production.
Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME) was a revolutionary program that brought WWE’s biggest stars and most exciting matches to network television. From 1985 to 1992, and again briefly in 2006-2007 before its return in 2024, SNME showcased some memorable bouts in WWE history. Let’s take a look at the cream of the crop – the absolute best matches to ever grace this groundbreaking show.
This match stands out as perhaps the greatest in SNME history. Two of WWE’s most technically gifted performers faced off in a bout that was almost flawlessly executed. Savage and Hart delivered a masterclass in in-ring storytelling, with Hart working over Savage’s ankle, forcing the Macho Man to remove his boot and finish the match on one foot.
The back-and-forth action, coupled with interference from Jimmy Hart and Jim Neidhart, created a dramatic atmosphere that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Savage ultimately secured the victory with a quick small package, capping off what many consider the best match of 1987.
Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant – February 5, 1988
While not a technical masterpiece and on a show called ‘The Main Event’ rather than Saturday Night’s, this match was a pivotal moment in one of wrestling’s most iconic feuds. The bout served as a prelude to their historic WrestleMania III encounter and showcased the immense star power of both Hogan and Andre. The clash of these titans epitomized the larger-than-life appeal that made SNME must-see TV.
Hart Foundation vs. The Rockers – April 28, 1990
In a year when WWE’s in-ring product was somewhat lacking, this tag team classic stood out as a beacon of excellence. The match featured four future Hall of Famers – Bret Hart, Jim Neidhart, Shawn Michaels, and Marty Jannetty – at the peak of their abilities.
The bout was a masterful display of tag team wrestling, filled with crisp chain wrestling and high-flying action. Although it ended in a no-contest due to interference from Demolition, this match remains a highlight of SNME’s later years.
Underrated Gems
Hercules vs. Virgil – “Ted DiBiase’s Slaves” Match
This unique stipulation match doesn’t often make “best of” lists, but it deserves recognition for its compelling storytelling and the satisfying conclusion to Virgil’s quest for freedom from DiBiase.
Triple H & John Cena vs. Kurt Angle, Randy Orton & Rey Mysterio – 2006
From SNME’s brief revival in the mid-2000s, this star-studded match showcased some of the top talent of the era. While it may not have the nostalgia factor of earlier SNME bouts, the in-ring action was quality.
WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event holds a special place in professional wrestling history. This iconic show, which first aired in 1985, has been a staple of WWE programming for decades, showcasing some of the most memorable moments and matches in the company’s history.
Saturday Night’s Main Event debuted on NBC in 1985, the same year as the first WrestleMania. It was conceived as a way to bring WWE’s biggest stars and most exciting matches to a primetime television audience.
The show aired intermittently, replacing “Saturday Night Live” in its timeslot on occasion, and quickly became a fan favorite during the Golden Era.
Golden Era Highlights
During its initial run from 1985 to 1992, Saturday Night’s Main Event featured some of the most iconic wrestlers of the era. Superstars like Hulk Hogan, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, André the Giant, and The Ultimate Warrior regularly headlined the show.
One of the most memorable moments came in 1988 when André the Giant controversially defeated Hulk Hogan for the WWF Championship, only to surrender it to “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase moments later.
Revival and Modern Era
After a 14-year hiatus, WWE brought back Saturday Night’s Main Event in 2006. The revival lasted until 2008, bringing the excitement of WWE’s biggest stars back to network television.
Now, in 2024, WWE is set to relaunch the show as part of a new five-year deal with NBCUniversal, promising four annual specials that will air on NBC and Peacock.
Impact on WWE Programming
Saturday Night’s Main Event has always been more than just another wrestling show. It served as a platform for WWE to showcase its top talent and storylines to a broader audience.
The show’s success helped solidify WWE’s position as the leading professional wrestling company and contributed to the mainstream popularity of wrestlers like Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage.
The second return episode of WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on NBC appears to be set for January 25, 2025, according to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer. While WWE has not officially announced the date, Meltzer reported that a company source confirmed the timing to him.
The show is expected to air one week before the WWE Royal Rumble, scheduled for February 1, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Meltzer emphasized the pivotal role of NBC in determining the schedule, stating, “The deal is that when they get the date from NBC, that is the date they run. NBC is the higher power in this one.”
Fans are already anticipating the first return episode of Saturday Night’s Main Event, set for December 14, 2024. The event will feature a triple-header of title matches, including Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens, GUNTHER vs. Finn Balor, and Liv Morgan vs. IYO SKY, delivering high-stakes action ahead of the January installment.
While the January 25 date has not been officially confirmed by WWE, it reflects the company’s strategic use of major televised events to build excitement for the road to WrestleMania.
A new report suggests the highly anticipated Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens matchup is planned to headline WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 12.
The rivalry between Rhodes and Owens has intensified in recent months, beginning with Owens viciously attacking Rhodes backstage after WWE Bad Blood.
According to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is targeting the NBC special as the stage for this clash. The report clarifies that the match will not occur at Survivor Series, redirecting fan expectations to the upcoming NBC event.
“We’ve been told the Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens match is slated as the main event for Saturday Night’s Main Event on 12/14 from the Nassau Coliseum, so at least as of earlier this week wasn’t slated on this show.”
– Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens scheduled for Saturday Night’s Main Event (Wrestling Observer Newsletter)
Rhodes Reacts to Kevin Owens’ Attack
In the wake of his heel turn, Owens expressed frustration over WWE’s management, claiming they stifled his ability to explain his actions on air. Rhodes publicly acknowledged the attack in an interview with the Manchester Evening News:
“I’d be foolish to try and tell you anything different because the entire video exists online and you can see every inch of it. I’ll try and keep my remarks short in terms of how I feel but I will tell you this. It’s a very passionate industry, everybody wants the north star of our business which is the WWE championship and the championship that I hold at this time.”
WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event is set to return, airing live on NBC and simulcast on Peacock on December 14 at 8 p.m. ET from the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island, N.Y. WWE announced today via email that additional tickets for the event have been released, stating, “We’re bringing that old school look and feel to Nassau Coliseum on December 14 for the return of Saturday Night’s Main Event!“
According to PWInsider.com, WWE plans to fully embrace the classic style beyond just promotional hype. The broadcast presentation and the arena itself will reflect this retro theme, aiming to recreate the vibe of the original Saturday Night’s Main Event era. For instance, the event will feature full arena seating rather than closing off a portion of the venue for Titantron staging, as typically seen in Raw and SmackDown tapings.
In a recent Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that the main event matchups are expected to include Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens and World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER vs. Damian Priest.
Ticket demand for the event has been high. WrestleTix recently reported that WWE had distributed 10,259 tickets, with 817 tickets remaining for a setup capacity of 11,076 seats. Over 300 tickets were sold in the last week alone.
As the wrestling world eagerly anticipates the return of WWE’s iconic Saturday Night’s Main Event, rumors are swirling about the potential matchups that will headline this spectacular event.
With the date fast approaching, fans are buzzing with excitement about the possible clashes between some of the biggest names in professional wrestling.
Saturday Night’s Main Event Rumors
One of the most talked-about potential matches for Saturday Night’s Main Event is a high-stakes championship bout that could reshape the WWE landscape.
Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens
Fans are discussing a possible showdown between Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens, as reported by Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer.
This match has reportedly been a topic of intense discussion within WWE, as it would pit two of the company’s most talented and popular superstars against each other in a battle for the most prestigious title in the industry.
World Heavyweight Championship Clash
Another rumored match that has fans on the edge of their seats involves the current World Heavyweight Champion.
GUNTHER vs. Damian Priest
Reports, again from the Observer, suggest that GUNTHER, the dominant World Heavyweight Champion, may defend his title against the Damian Priest.
GUNTHER’s reign as champion has been marked by impressive defenses and a level of dominance rarely seen in modern WWE, especially during his Intercontinental Championship run.
The Return of Saturday Night’s Main Event
The revival of Saturday Night’s Main Event is a significant moment for WWE and its fans. This event, which has a rich history dating back to the 1980s, has always been known for featuring marquee matchups and unforgettable moments.
WWE is closing out 2024 with a bang, as the iconic Saturday Night’s Main Event will return to the airwaves before the year is up.
WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event will be a live two-hour special airing live on both NBC and Peacock on Saturday, December 14 at 8 p.m. ET.
The event will take place at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island, N.Y., site of the first-ever SNME in May 1985.
This is the first of a quarterly primetime special on NBC and Peacock, under WWE’s new five-year media partnership with NBCUniversal that brought SmackDown back to USA.
Ticket Information
Tickets go on sale Friday, September 20, at 10 a.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com. A pre-sale begins the prior day, Thursday, September 19, at 10 a.m. ET.
Fans can register for an exclusive presale offer at WWE.com.
Conflicting Reports On Saturday Night’s Main Event
It was reported yesterday that WWE could be reviving Saturday Night’s Main Event as part of their new Television deals and the airing of the show will be split between NBC and Fox.
However, during the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer denied these reports and said that while it’s still possible; the people on both WWE and Fox’s side have said that the story is not true.
Continuing on the topic, Meltzer claimed that he was told there won’t be any ‘added wrestling programming’ in the new deal.
He went on to say that the rumors about NXT airing on FS1 were untrue as well and while it makes sense, his sources told him that it’s not happening.
Matt Hardy Wants To Delete The B Team
Bray Wyatt was absent from this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw due to a car accident. It forced Matt Hardy to face Curtis Axel in a one on one match without his partner being at ringside while Bo Dallas was in the corner for Axel.
The match saw Axel scoring another pinfall victory over his opponent after Dallas distracted Matt and Curtis was able to hit him with a facebuster for the win.
After the show, Hardy gave a backstage interview where he talked about the absence of his partner and claimed that at Extreme Rules, the B Team will see the darkness of Deletion:
Saturday Night’s Main Event looks to be coming back to NBC. The cable specials were frequently where big storylines and angles would play out in WWE outside of pay-per-views before the advent of Monday Night Raw.
Sports journalist, Brad Shepard, broke the news yesterday. “I have learned that an occasional special event, thought to be a reboot of Saturday Night’s Main Event, will be televised once WWE enters its new television deals with Fox and NBCU,” Shepard said. “The special is expected to happen several times throughout the year, with each event being strategically placed before big dates, like the Saturday night before the NFL’s Super Bowl. Airing of the events would be split between NBC and Fox.”
WWE’s new television contracts go into effect in the fall of 2020.
Shepard was also the journalist who broke the story that the XFL would be returning in 2020.
Saturday Night’s Main Event
The first run of Saturday Night’s Main Event lasted from 1985 to 1992. SNME began airing on NBC after the first WrestleMania. The agreement with NBC signified the end of the promotion’s relationship with MTV (aka the Rock N Wrestling Connection).
Once WWE struck a deal to begin airing Raw on Monday nights, SNME specials were canceled.
WWE would bring back the events in 2006, however. 5 events aired on NBC between 2006-2008.
The last episode of Saturday Night’s Main Event was taped on July 28th, 2008 from the Verizon Center in Washington, DC. On that night, Edge defeated Jeff Hardy, the Great Khali defeated Jimmy Wang Yang, and the team of JBL, Kane, & the Legacy defeated John Cena, Batista, and Cryme Tyme.
