Kofi’s latest gauntlet run will kick off SmackDown, but don’t expect it to run the whole show

WWE’s dropped some knowledge on us about the next episode of SmackDown LIVE, set to come our way Mar. 19 from Indianapolis. Plans have been known to change between these weekend announcements and the blue brand’s Tuesday night air time, but there won’t be much wiggle room in the schedule for this show. That’s because it will feature the latest Vince McMahon-constructed obstacle standing between Kofi Kingston and a WWE title shot at WrestleMania 35... a five man gauntlet consisting of Randy Orton, Samoa Joe, both members of The Bar, and Rowan.

Such a match would figure to take up a lot of time, at least if it reaches the hoped for and expected outcome. We can’t say for certain it will lead to Kingston vs. Daniel Bryan yet, though. WWE’s revealed the gauntlet will start the show next Tuesday. So it could run for a good long time as Kofi defeats all five opponents and earns the opportunity he’s spent 11 years striving for. Or he could get pinned by the first man he faces.

Either way, it doesn’t appear Kingston’s challenge will span the entire two hour episode like Seth Rollins’ epic performance during a seven-man gauntlet on Raw in February of last year. WWE is also promising The Miz will address Shane McMahon’s actions from Fastlane, when his former tag partner and “bestie” attacked him after they lost their tag title rematch with The Usos.

But, as we said above, plans change. And they won’t need to set aside too much time for a Miz promo anyway, right?

Full speed ahead to #KofiMania.