We've already heard that WWE is planning to return to dual-branded PPVs starting with Backlash in May and Dave Meltzer now reveals that an official announcement in regards to that is coming soon.
There are a number of reasons why the company is doing this, including the fact that the extra PPVs aren't really doing much in terms of adding new revenue, WWE Network subscription rates aren't increasing, and the long gaps between events is hurting storylines on each of the shows.
Well, it's now being reported that all of these PPVs will soon be increased by one hour to become four-hour shows with two matches taking place on the Kickoff pre-show. That means they will now be a good five hours in total which is definitely going to be problematic for those who already complain about them being too long. Even with the longer running time, though, it's not all good news.
WWE's plan is to mostly feature big name Superstars on these cards and that's going to result in mid card and lower card talent being left on the shelf. However, we will reportedly get more stipulation matches on TV which would have previously been put on PPVs for mid-card feuds. Basically, each event will feature nearly every title being defended and that doesn't leave room for much else!