Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for August 21, 2026

Backstage, Sami Zayn argues with General Manager Nick Aldis, saying that it should be him that should be defending the Undisputed WWE Championship in Toronto and demands to know when he will get justice, especially after Randy Orton got involved last week. Orton shows up and confronts Sami, then "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes - who is already in the ring - calls Orton out. Aldis tells Orton to let him deal with this, and Sami furiously demands not to run away from him. As Aldis talks with Cody, Orton shows up and tells Cody that he will be whupping his ass at Sunday Night's Main Event, but Cody says he knows Orton well enough that he will not wait until then. Aldis butts in, saying that they are not doing this again after putting other people in danger, and says that they will tear each other apart at Sunday Night's Main event and not one minute sooner. Aldis also warns both Orton and Cody that if they lay a hand on each other before them, they will never get another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. Orton says he will not jeapordize his chance of becoming a 15-time world champion, then addresses the attack on him at the end of last week's show, saying that Cody did not swing the chair down on his head because he would not be able to live with himself, while he swung the chair because he knew how to "go there" and become the worst version fo himself. Orton says that Cody is and will always be "a good guy," and is more like "The American Daydream" rather than "The American Nightmare." He says that Cody says will not be the one to end "The Legend Killer," but Cody says that Orton is operating on a very dangerous assumption, and that he has learned from Orton and his enemies that he will come back to him and that this is not a prediction, but a spoiler.

Backstage, we hear from The MFT's (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga). Tama wants to see everyone talking trash, as it is about their family now. Talla says the WWE Tag Team Championships are theirs now, and threatens to put down anyone who challenges them. Haku shows up and says it is time they show them who is "the motherfuckin' Tongans here."

The MFT's (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga) retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against Damian Priest and R-Truth with the Red Cross. After the match, Priest helps Truth up.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews CM Punk. Punk says that he thrives in pressure situations and hostile territories, and that Kevin Owens has been fighting imaginary, one-sided beefs and ghosts from twenty years ago in his head. He says that while Owens has claimed he has never changed, Punk says he has grown and evolved while he sees the same Owens from twenty years ago. Randy Orton shows up and gives CM Punk fair warning that after he whups "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, he will be coming for him. Punk says he looks forward to it.

Backstage, Chelsea Green meets with Tiffany Stratton. Chelsea wants to take Stratton out for a big steak dinner after what happened last week, but Stratton says it is okay and tells Chelsea not to be at ringside because she does not want anything jeopardizing Chelsea's championship reign. Chelsea and Stratton pass by Paige, who tells Chelsea that she will be a great champion after having an injury threaten to take away somethings he loved just like an injury did to her. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) show up and mock the situation, and Jacy tells Chelsea not to take advice from anyone who cannot hold a championship before Fallon says it is only a matter of time before they take the Interim WWE Women's Championship from her. Lainey says last week was "cute," but words are no match for actually getting in the ring with Fatal Influence. Chelsea says that if anybody will be taking titles, it will be them taking Fatal Influence's, and Paige says that she misses gold being around her waist and proposes taking the Women's United States Championship from Jacy, which prompts Stratton to tell Fatal Influence to continue being irrelevant like they were before they got to SmackDown. Jacy tells Stratton to keep wrapping tape around her waist while Fatal Influence continues to wrap gold around theirs.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Blake Monroe. Blake says that she sees herself as world championship material and that her match should be for the WWE Women's Championship, even if it is against Chelsea Green, but instead, she has a rendezvous with Giulia and she is trying to find something appropriate to wear for "this dump Toronto." Blake then agrees with Cathy that she will look great regardless of what she wears as she reveals he ring gear and says that even if she is given nothing, she will do what she does best and make everyone talk about her.

Giulia vs. Blake Monroe ends before it can begin when Blake attacks Giulia from behind during Giulia's ring entrance and hits her with a Gotch-style Neutralizer in the ring.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss talk about Alexa's upcoming birthday brunch when Alexa mentions that Tatum Paxley will be with them. Tatum shows up and says she cannot wait to hang out with Charlotte and Alexa, then gets confused as to what a Bloody Mary is. Charlotte asks what is happening, then Jade Cargill, B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim show up. Cargill says that Alexa needs "that freak show" in Tatum to bail herself out of a match before Tatum introduces herself, asks which one of them is Mary, and says that she needs their blood as she extends her hand towards B-Fab. B-Fab is grossed out, and Charlotte says that while Tatum may be a freak show with no sense of personal space, she still handled B-Fab and Michin. B-Fab says that if Tatum is so impressive, then they can see what Tatum can do on her own, which leads Michin to challenge Tatum to a one-on-one match next week. An excited Tatum accepts, and B-Fab has to get Cargill out of there while Tatum is happy that Charlotte defended her.

Trick Williams and Lil' Yachty head to the ring. Trick says he has Lil' Yachty back, but not his title, and that Baron Corbin does not want to see him one-on-one without cheating or taking shortcuts. When Trick calls Corbin out, Corbin shows up and heads to the ring, then chases Yachty out before Trick reminds Corbin that he is the one he is looking for. Trick tells Corbin to stop ducking him and give the people what they want, right here, right now, but Corbin says that the United States title is getting "a pretty little haircut" and that Trick is not getting another shot at it after he lost the rematch. Corbin says that Trick has nothing to offer and that his rematch is not happening. As Corbin says that they are done, Yachty is back in the ring, and he hits Corbin with the Trick Stick. Trick then clotheslines Corbin out of the ring, and Corbin ends up giving Trick his title rematch at Sunday Night's Main Event, but only if he gets five minutes with Yachty and only if Yachty surives; otherwise, they are done. Yachty accepts, and Corbin tells Yachty it will be the longest five minutes of his life.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Kevin Owens. Owens notes that Finn Balor is in the room, and Finn Balor says he is glad to have seen him return at SummerSlam, then Owens notes that Gunther is now in the room. Gunther tells Owens that if he wins tonight, he will not have to worry about Finn Balor, as he is a shadow of his former self; instead, Owens will have to worry about him. Finn tells Owens not to worry about Gunther and to worry about winning the Undisputed WWE Championship, and tells him that when he does, he will be waiting on the other side.

Lash Legend beats Tiffany Stratton. After the match, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) attack Stratton, then Chelsea Green runs to the ring with a shinai and smacks The Irresistible Forces with it.

We hear from Shinsuke Nakamura, who says that he has warned The MFT's (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga) for weeks, but they have not been listening. He says that what is in the dark has finally come to light. All of a sudden, Hiromu Tanahashi, no longer in New Japan Pro Wrestling, introduces himself as "Kyoki," and says that after spending years competing around the world, he is finally in WWE, and says that the stronger they are, the more fun he has. Nakamura says that Kyoki does not fear chaos; he enjoys it. Kyoki wants more fights, more gold and more madness, and Nakamura tells The MFT's that they have the WWE Tag Team Championships for now, but when Strong Style and madness combine, there will be an explosion.

CM Punk retains the Undisputed WWE Championship against Kevin Owens. During the match, Punk pushes Owens into referee Dan Engler, and Owens soon does the same to Punk, which knocks Engler out of the ring. Owens hits a Stunner, but Engler is out. Owens calls for another referee before Punk hits him with the GTS, but Engler is still out. Punk tries to pull Engler back into the ring, but Sami Zayn comes out of the crowd and sends Punk into the ring post and back into the ring, where Owens hits Punk with another Stunner. Sami gets Engler back into the ring, but Punk kicks out in the nick of time. Sami then grabs the Undisputed WWE Championship and slides it into the ring, and tells Owens to use it as a weapon against Punk while Engler is still down. Owens is reluctant, and when Sami gets on the apron, Owens tells him he is not winning it that way and hands the title to Sami only for Sami to smack him in the head with it. Punk hits Owens with another GTS, and Engler comes to and counts the pinfall. After the match, Sami hits Punk with the WWE Championship, and when Owens gets to his feet, Sami hits Owens with it a second time before doing the same to Punk. Sami then tells Punk that he stole the WWE Championship and that the WWE Championship being back with him is justice.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top moments from tonight's show!

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for August 20, 2026

"Michin" Mia Yim beats Giulia.

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for July 31, 2026

Finn Balor heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Finn says that he cannot help but think about 2016 when he thinks about SummerSlam, when he had the best and worst night of his career when he went from winning the WWE Universal Championship only to relinquish it due to injury. He says he has been scratching and clawing for the last ten years to regain the glory of that night, and as he says that he has the fans behind him and he is close to getting back to where he was, Sami Zayn shows up. Sami says that while this is an emotional time for Finn, he has something to get off his chest. Sami says he should be in the WWE Championship match, and says he would love to see "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes as champion again as he already beat him to become champion and he can do it again. Sami also admits that a part of him would like CM Punk to retain before calling Punk "the biggest fraud and the biggest piece of garbage," then says that Punk has since become "Corporate Poster Boy #2." After stating that he wants to take the title back from the man who stole it from him, Sami says he has respect for Finn, and Finn dares Sami to come to the ring and say what he has to say to him to his face. Sami says he has respect for Finn and that everyone knows how great Finn is, stating he should have been a world champion several times over. He tells Finn to take a pulse of this moment, and recognize that is belongs to him. He says that Finn had his time, and now it is his time, and says that taking the WWE Championship back is bigger than the both of them and that it is about "justice for Sami." Finn asks where the justice for him, saying that this is his moment. Sami says that if Finn took ten years to get to this point, he should take the hint. Finn reminds Sami that he was world champion longer than him and that he lost the title because he lost the match. Sami says that "almost sounds like fighting words," and if he did not respect Finn, he would have dropped him where he stood. He then says he will not do that, as he is "a good guy" and "the last real good guy left around here." He tells Finn he will walk away and see him at SummerSlam. Before Finn can answer back, both men are suddenly attacked by Gunther, who declares himself the rightful #1 contender to the WWE Championship. General Manager Adam Pearce shows up with security, and Gunther wants to know what he has to do to get what he considers his, and asks if he has to beat Pearce's ass as well. Gunther is attacked from behind by Finn, and Sami shows up and fights with Finn over Gunther. Gunther attacks both men again, then Nick Aldis shows up and brawls with Gunther. Security has to separate both men as Aldis puts Gunther in a Texas Cloverleaf, and Gunther hits Aldis with a big boot.

"Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab beat Tiffany Stratton and Chelsea Green after Jade Cargill attacks Tiffany Stratton on the outside behind the referee's back. After the match, Charlotte Flair shows up. Tiffany and Chelsea pull Michin and B-Fab out of the ring and brawl with them, then Charlotte gets in the ring and brawls with Cargill. Charlotte soon comes out on top.

Fraxiom and Rey Fenix are met by "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh, who are looking for Danhausen. Fenix says he has not, and Dominik accuses Fenix of hiding in Mexico before saying that The Judgment Day are looking for more gold and that the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship would look good on McDonagh. Fenix accepts the challenge.

We hear from Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga. Tama says they have forgotten who they are, and leaving Solo Sikoa was the right move. Talla says they lost sight of chasing gold, and Tama says that it took guts to strike out on their own. Talla says that from now, they take care of family first. Haku shows up and says these are the sons that he needs, and tells them not to forget who they are, for they are the sons of Haku. He tells them to go and "make them fear us again."

Damian Priest and R-Truth beat The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) in a title-for-title match by disqualification after The War Raiders shove referee Charles Robinson to get to Damian Priest and R-Truth. Damian Priest and R-Truth retain the WWE Tag Team Championships, and The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) retain the AAA World Tag Team Championships. After the match, both teams continue to brawl until they are both attacked by Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga, who are soon joined by Haku.

We see house show footage from last night in Springfield, Illinois where "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and CM Punk get physical with each other post-match.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews CM Punk, who says that this is competition and that he and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes are running away from their match and the fact that they do not need to be friends. He says that he takes on all comers and he will still walk out champion against Cody. Suddenly, Trick Williams shows up and says Punk should be glad he lost, and that sooner or later, he will come for the WWE Championship. Punk likes Trick's confidence and says he wanted him to win, and tells him that he does make it to the title match, he will whoop that trick.

We hear from Nick Aldis, who says that while it was an honor to be SmackDown General Manager, he wanted to make it to WWE as a wrestler. He says he was happy about being a General Manager, however, until Gunther put his hands on him and pushed him too far.He says that Gunther left him no choice but to lace up his boots and face Gunther like a man.

Members of the Green Bay Packers are seen in the front row.

Trick Williams heads to the ring. Trick gets straight to business and talks about Baron Corbin attacking him last week, calling him "a big-ass Tommy Pickles" before calling him out. Corbin shows up and says Trick loves to hear the sound of his own voice, and that while he was away, he learned some valuable lessons about patience, which Trick knows nothing about, then says that Trick's self-importance will be his downfall when he wraps his arms around his neck. Trick says that Baron Corbin is no badder than he was the first time around and that all he is collecting is a foot up his ass. Corbin teases the both of them going at it right now, then says that Trick is "a dumb rookie who doesn't understand." He then proclaims that on Sunday, he is taking the United States Championship, and there is nothing in the world that Trick Williams can do about it. Trick tells Corbin there will be no title taking as the fans chant "Whoop that trick."

We see a video package chronicling the feud between Brock Lesnar and Oba Femi leading up to their Hell in a Cell Match.

Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against JD McDonagh after Danhausen and the Minihausens show up and attack "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio before chasing him to the back.

We see a video package briefly chronicling the history between Seth "Freakin'" Rollins and Roman Reigns.

Lash Legend beats Giulia in an Interim WWE Women's Championship Ladder Match qualifier.

We see "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes grab a pair of dog chains before we hear Guile's theme from Street Fighter II followed by the Street Fighter II announcer saying "Fight!"

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. As Cody does his usual stage theatrics on the stage, Punk's theme hits, and Punk pats Cody on the head on the way to the ring. Punk asks Cody how it feels, and Cody says that he can see through him and that they are way past the point that they are running towards each other. Punk says that he hopes he has ruffled feathers, because when he gets a title shot in his hometown, he is going to take it, and that he knew this would set them on a path. He says that he does not have to be Cody's friend tonight or tomorrow and that it is up to Cody if they are still friends, and Punk wants to know who is the better man between them "for business purposes." Cody says that this has become personal not just to Punk, but to everyone who has not held the WWE Championship, which makes Punk the best in the world, and mentions his "I didn't come back to make friends; I came back to make money" line. Punk says he did not come back to make friends, but he did not come back to lose friends, and that tomorrow is not looking good for Cody. Cody says that Punk is prepared for what will happen tomorrow, and asks what Punk will do about it tonight. Punk lays the WWE Championship between them and takes off his jacket and his friendship bracelet before saying "Say when." Cody does the same, tossing his jacket into the crowd as Punk dares Cody to punch him in the jaw. Cody punches Punk, and both men brawl. Cody clotheslines Punk out of the ring before they brawl on the outside where officials rush in to separate both men. Punk and Cody punch at each other on the announce table until they are both pulled off, and they soon brawl again as the show ends.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top ten moments fom tonight's show!

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for July 23, 2026

Giulia beats Kiana James.

American Made (Julius and Brutus Creed) beat "Super" Sean Legacy and Dorian Van Dux.

Ivy Nile beats Wendy Choo.

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for June 26, 2026

Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring to start tonight's show. Trick says that he had to miss SmackDown last week because he went to Jamaica and got married, stating that Lil Yachty, Lash Legend and his whole family were there. He then shows off his wedding ring. (This is in fact, real, as he and Lash Legend got married last week.) He then mentions that Ricky Saints is the next person he will defend the United States Championship, then says that he will beat Saints' ass and head to SummerSlam as champion. Saints shows up and says that Trick is not good at making life decisions, then warns Saints that he has smacked him once and he will smack him again now that he has interrupted him.Saints states that Trick's hype train will be coming to an end, but Trick says that Saints should be concerned about what he will do when he kicks his teeth down the back of his throat. Saints also asks if Lil Yachty comes with the United States Championship when he wins it before punching Lil Yachty and running out of the ring. When Trick helps Lil Yachty up, Saints runs back in and attacks Trick.

Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Alexa Bliss. Alexa says that Charlotte Flair is feeling the emotional and physical pain after what Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab did to her, and says that she will get revenge even if she has to team up with Tiffany Stratton, who says that she only cares about beating Cargill. Alexa knows Tiffany and Charlotte have history, but she wants to return the favor. Tiffany says they will get through tonight, then says Charlotte and Alexa can do whatever they want as long as they leave her out of it.

B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim beat Alexa Bliss and Tiffany Stratton when Tiffany Stratton goes for the Prettiest Moonsault Ever only for Jade Cargill to show up and trip her off the top rope. After the match, Chelsea Green shows up as Cargill, Michin and B-Fab are about to attack Tiffany, who actually appreciates the favor. Tiffany, Chelsea and Alexa stand tall in the ring.

Backstage, Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga meet with Solo Sikoa. Tama says they are tired of getting dragged into Solo's war with The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Jacob Fatu), then also bring up Solo costing them tag team gold and Solo helping LA Knight. Talla says they have received word from "the elders," and that they are out. Solo says they cannot leave, but Tama says "We just did" before he and Talla leave. Solo says that nobody leaves him before the show cuts to a commercial break.

Backstage, Jade Cargill demands a match with Chelsea Green tonight from General Manager Nick Aldis. Aldis says he will make it happen.

Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against Nathan Frazer.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Damian Priest and R-Truth. R-Truth is focused on getting the old Judgment Day back together, and Priest says that they want to face more tag teams. The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up, surprised that Truth and Priest are still champions, and challenge them to a title vs. title match. R-Truth does a Razor Ramon/Scott Hall impression before Priest accepts their challenge.

Backstage, LA Knight shows up and Jackie Redmond interviews him. Knight says he is heading down to the ring to get some answers.

We see a video package for "Main Event" Jey Uso vs. Gunther in the King of the Ring Tournament finals.

LA Knight heads to the ring. Knight talks about what happened on Raw and how Jimmy Uso saw himself looking at the lights, then says that Jimmy got what he deserved even though he respected him before addressing the unexpected assist from Solo Sikoa. When Knight calls out Solo, Solo shows up and heads to the ring. Knight says that every time Solo heads to the ring, they always fight because he attacks or distracts him, but Solo says he is not here for a fight. Solo says that everybody in his family has left him, and Knight says that while he gets it, he does not feel sorry for him, and says that this will lead to Solo returning to The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Jacob Fatu). Knight then wants to know why Solo did what he did, and Solo says he hates The Bloodline and hates being part of the group, and finishing them is the only way he will feel better. He then says that the only thing they have in common is that they do not like The Bloodline. Knight says Solo should hate Roman Reigns, much less The Bloodline, for what he did to him, and says the rest of The Bloodline should hate him, yet they went right back into the fold.At the same time, Knight says the has no reason to trust Solo and that nothing will be different, but Solo says it is different because he has no family and he has nothing to lose. He says it is just him now, and the enemy of his enemy can be friends. He says they can work together and watch each others' backs to take out The Bloodline, but Knight is not buying it, especially when he has heard "It's just me" before. Knight admits that he hates The Bloodline and has been outnumbered by them, and that he probably needs help, but he does not need Solo Sikoa, saying he lives and dies doing things his way. Knight then says "Thanks, but no thanks" and walks off.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Sami Zayn, who says he called last week's WWE Championship match down the middle until he was pushed around. He says nobody gets it except a planking Johnny Gargano near an embarrassed Candice LeRae. He then says good things happen to good people and that he will soon wrestle for the WWE Championship. Sami admits the last few months have not been great and that he has not been himself since he failed to win the WWE Championship and lost, but because he stayed true to himself, the universe has given him an opportunity to redeem himself. He looks to Gargano and realizes he could be WWE Champion.

Paige beats Jacy Jayne with a schoolkid pin after taking out Lainey Reid and countering a roll-up with a schoolkid pin.

Backstage, Danhausen continues to experiment on The Miz and Kit Wilson, who now have white streaks in their hair. Matt Cardona shows up and says he has the craving to be Zack Ryder again. All of a sudden, Kit Wilson and The Miz. Danhausen leaves, then Los Garza (Angel and Berto) show up wanting to find Danhausen and get their money, and Cardona has no idea and tells them to find him themselves. They leave, and Danhausen chides Zack Ryder for looking at the body under the sheet.

Backstage, Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga run into Finn Balor, who is glad to see them and to see Tama make his own decisions. They mention their history, then Tama says it was a long time ago before mentioning Shinsuke Nakamura was part of his past too, and that everyone saw how that went.

Danahusen comes out with The Miz and Kit Wilson, and they all head to the ring. Danhausen welcomes everyone to "Danhausen TV." When asked about being replaced on his own TV show by Danhausen, Miz says "Awesome!" When asked about Los Garza's (Angel and Berto) recent actions by Danhausen, Kit Wilson says they are toxic. Los Garza run into the ring and attack The Miz and Kit Wilson, then confront Danhausen wanting their money. All of a sudden, Matt Cardona shows up. General Manager Nick Aldis then shows up and makes a tag team match between Los Garza and the team of Cardona and Danhausen, which happens right now.

Matt Cardona and Danhausen beat Los Garza (Angel and Berto) after The Miz and Kit Wilson stop Garza from using a chair and Berto goes up top only to be hit by corner pyro.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Gunther. Gunther says he is the one who needs to be redemption after being screwed out of WWE Champion twice, then says that Saturday will go down very differently.

Zuffa boxer Aaron McKenna is seen in the crowd.

We see a video package for Iyo Sky vs. Liv Morgan in the Queen of the Ring Tournament finals.

Jade Cargill beats Chelsea Green. After the match, Cargill attacks Chelsea, and Tiffany Stratton and Alexa Bliss run to the ring. Cargill retreats, and B-Fab and Michin run into the ring. The brawl ends with Cargill hitting Jaded on Tiffany Stratton.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Solo Sikoa. Royce Keys shows up and tells Solo that "Main Event" Jey Uso is coming for him, then wishes him good luck.

We see a video package for Bron Breakker vs. Seth "Freakin'" Rollins in a steel cage match at Night of Champions.

Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Trick Williams and Lil Yachty. Yachty tells Ricky Saints now has their full attention and has earned himself a tricky situation for his sucker punch. Trick Williams says Ricky Saints did everything to get in the ring with him, and now he is, and that Night of Champions will be "Night of Trick Williams."

Giulia beats Kiana James. After the match, Giulia is suddenly attacked from behind by Blake Monroe.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Before Cody can speak, Sami Zayn shows up and thanks his "ride or die" fans who have supported him since day one, then says that he regrets how he handled last week's WWE Championship match. When asked if this was a mistake by Cody, Sami says this was a mistake and that this is not what he wanted, but Cody has none of this and says that this is exactly what Sami wanted. Cody says that for a guy who claims not to get a break, thinks are looking up for him, and that he finds him exhausting to deal with, then finds him just as annoying as Kevin Owens. Sami tells Cody to keep Owens' name out of his mouth, then says that if were not for him, Gunther would be WWE Champion, and that Cody should be thanking him for that. He also says he will be the reason that Cody is no longer WWE Champion on Saturday. Gunther shows up and says he does not care about what is going on between Cody and Sami and that he only cares about the WWE Championship, and that Sami is right about last night and Cody knows it. He also says that Sami is wrong about leaving Night of Champions as WWE Champion, because he will. He says that as a referee, he caused a lot of damage to him, but as a wrestler, he is "a non-factor," as he has never been WWE Champion and never will be. Gunther then tells Cody to enjoy his last night as "golden boy," for he will be walking out of Night of Champions and into SummerSlam as champion and as King of the Ring, not him. "Main Event" Jey Uso shows up and heads to the ring, but Gunther stops the entrance theme reprises. Jey Uso says he will become King of the Ring and pull up on Cody at SummerSlam, and warns Sami that if he gets involved, he will get him, too. He then tells Gunther like he will make him tap out "like a little bitch" like he did at WrestleMania. This starts a brawl. Cody and Jey make quick work of Sami and Gunther, then have a staredown. Suddenly, Oba Femi makes his presence known, and he heads to the ring. Oba stands on the ring apron as Jey superkicks Cody out of the ring, then Gunther gets back in the ring and clotheslines Jey before confronting Oba. Sami then attacks Gunther from behind, then Cody gets back in and hits Sami with Cross Rhodes. Oba then stands before Cody as Cody picks the WWE Championship back up, and both men have a staredown as the show ends.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for June 11, 2026

Giulia beats Jordynne Grace.

Rayo Americano beats Dorian Van Dux after dodging a top rope Shooting Star Press and hitting the Bitter End.

Roxanne Perez beats Maxxine Dupri after Roxanne Perez grabs the ring skirt, allowing her to rake the eyes as the referee is not looking.

Raw Deal - Raw recap for June 1, 2026

Roman Reigns and The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) make their way to the ring to start tonight's show. Roman says he has been waiting for this day for a long time because there is no day like acknowledgment day, and Jey Uso wants to know where Jacob Fatu is on his first day on the job. Jacob Fatu shows up, and Roman and Jey tell Jacob that he knows what time it is. Jacob takes the microphone from Jey's hand and tells Roman that he knew what he was getting into when he challenged Roman to Tribal Combat, as he has been taking L's his whole life and it brought him here. He admits that last night, his children saw their father take a loss and keep his word, and he lost to his Tribal Chief. He tells Jey he did not lose to him, then acknowledge Roman Reigns as Tribal Chief and takes a knee beforeraising his right hand. Roman takes Jimmy by the hand, and Roman tells Jacob that while he does not understand this right now, he loves him. Jimmy says this is a warning shot that "they the twos and we the ones."

We are introduced to the French announce team of Michele Posa and Luca Franchini.

Oba Femi beats Solo Sikoa, Penta and Carmelo Hayes in a Fatal 4-Way Match to advance in the King of the Ring Tournament. After the match, Oba says Paul Heyman asked if he could take a beating and asked what he does after taking a beating that included seven F-5's, then says he is standing, winning and still here after taking Brock Lesnar's best shot, and he will become King of the Ring. He reminds Lesnar that they are 1-1 and that he will see him down the line.

Cathy Kelley introduces Sol Ruca to the ring. Sol Ruca states that winning the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship is a dream come true, as she and the fans all believed in her and that she could be a champion. Sol Ruca then thanks the fans and gives credit where credit is due to Becky Lynch despite Becky being against the match and feeling she was not ready to face the very best only to be proven wrong. She then says that as tough as it was to beat Becky, her work is just getting started, as the Women's Intercontinental Championship and the fans deserve a fighting champion, which she promises to be. She then says that if anyone thinks she is a rookie or if they underestimate her, she will snatch their soul walk out the champion.

In footage from after the show, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns have a chance meeting. Backstage, Roman Reigns meets with The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso), telling Jey to stay on Cody as he is the only one who understands tough love. He then tells Jey to go in at the King of the Ring Tournament, take the Undisputed WWE Championship and head to SummerSlam. Roman says there are two ends to the table, and he needs Jey to level up. He then asks Jimmy to stay with him, saying that Jey needs to do this on his own.

Rey Mysterio and Dragon Lee beat "All Ego" Ethan Page and Rusev.

Backstage, General Manager Adam Pearce tells Penta that he will make the Intercontinental Championship defense against Rey Mysterio happen. After Penta leaves, LA Knight shows up and accuses Pearce of siding with Roman Reigns. Pearce says he was talking business with Roman last night and that he has no idea what Knight saw, but Knight says that Pearce only wants Roman as World Heavyweight Champion before threatening to take Pearce out of retirement just to put him back in it. Pearce says Jacob Fatu is a liabilty and that Knight can believe whatever he wants, but he is trying to keep Roman Reigns and The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) in line. When Pearce points a finger at Knight, Knight raises Pearce's finger up into the air, taking it as more proof that Pearce is siding with Roman.

Iyo Sky beats Giulia, Roxanne Perez and Lash Legend to advance in the Queen of the Ring Tournament.

Backstage, Maxxine Dupri is shocked to find out she is not in the Queen of the Ring Tournament. General Manager Adam Pearce tells her that the tournament is stacked and that he had to make some tough decisions, and when Maxxine says she has been overlooked again, Pearce tells her that if an opening comes up, she will be at the top of the list. Otis tells her that he and Akira Tozawa have her back, but that they have noticed that Maxxine has been hanging out more with Austin Theory instead of them. Maxxine tells Otis that she knows what she is doing and to trust her on this.

We see the recent events regarding Danhausen and the New York Knicks, who have reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 since Danhausen uncursed the team.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. Bayley says the two of them can do the Queen of the Ring Tournament and the Women's Tag Team Championships at the same time. Lyra notices Sol Ruca and congratulates her on beating Becky Lynch for the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship, then says that she wants to challenge for the Women's Intercontinental Championship, which she could not challenge for while Becky was still champion. Sol Ruca says she would be honored.

Backstage, Liv Morgan shows up as Roxanne Perez is frustrated with her Queen of the Ring Tournament loss. Liv Morgan says that it has been a rough couple of weeks, but they are still family. Liv says that they take opportunities, not pout over them, and that one of them will take it all back for The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio), win the King and Queen of the Ring Tournaments, and take over Raw.

Seth "Freakin'" Rollins beats Bron Breakker. During the match, Austin Theory shows up only to get taken down by Rollins, and Paul Heyman has to distract referee Chad Patton so that Theory can hit Rollins with one of the World Tag Team Championships. Montez Ford shows up and takes out Austin Theory with a tope con hiro over the ring post, but gets Speared by Breakker. Breakker then hits Rollins with a Spear, but Rollins kicks out. Rollins soon hits Breakker with The Stomp, but Heyman puts Braekker's foot on the rope. Rollins confronts Heyman, who says he has no respect for Rollins, and Breakker goes for a Spear on the outside only for Rollins to pull Heyman in front of himself, leading Breakker to Spear Heyman through the barricade. An angry Breakker goes after Rollins with another Spear, but Rollins uses Theory's World Tag Team Championship as a shield and hits The Stomp for the win.

Here are the highlights for tonight's show!

Here is this week's Raw Recap!

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 15, 2026

Trick Williams heads to the ring, accompanied by Lil Yachty and Cocky the Gamecock (the South Carolina Gamecocks' mascot) to start tonight's show. Trick is excited to be back home and references the special chicken wing sauce from Kiki's Chicken and Waffles, which were used to accidentally christen "the lemon pepper steppers." He also talks about his time playing football for the University of South Carolina and mentions that his family is here, then declares that South Carolina has created a star. The Miz and Kit Wilson suddenly show up, and The Miz says that Trick's career is starting to look like rejected mascots from his daughter's birthday party, and asks if this is WWE or Sesame Street before asking if Big Bird is going to come out. Lil Yachty takes exception to The Miz's interruption, and says this is why he and Kit Wilson were attacked by Minihausens and cursed. Miz insists that he is not cursed, and Kit Wilson reads slam poetry where he mocks Trick and Lil Yachty. Lil Yachty decides to hit them both with a rebuttal of his own, and also says that Miz has tiny balls. A furious miz wants to leave Columbia, South Carolina, which he calls "a dumpster fire of a city" before stating that if he lived in Columbia, he would volunteer to move to Tennessee. He then calls for a referee so he can whup Trick in front of his mama, and when Kit Wilson opens his mouth, Trick slaps him before sending him and Miz out of the ring.

Trick Williams beats The Miz. During the match, The Miz produces a shinai from underneath the ring, but Lil Yachty takes ita way from him before he can use it and strikes Kit Wilson with it before tossing him into the announce table. Trick then hits the Trick Shot for the win.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Carmelo Hayes. Carmelo says he may have been gone for a month, but he has watched Sami Zayn and Carmelo Hayes make a mockery of the WWE United States Championship and that he is shooting for the title again. Suddenly, Ricky Saints shows up and says that SmackDown has changed, but Carmelo Hayes takes this as a challenge and warns him that the main roster has a way of humbling people and that Saints will eventually be humbled. Saints says that Carmelo needs to learn a lesson and that he will see him in the ring tonight.

General Manager Nick Aldis speaks with Rey Fenix, then meets with Sami Zayn, who says that he did things at WrestleMania that he is ashamed of and wants a rematch at the WWE United States Championship so he can do things the right way, but Aldis tells him he will have to earn it. Sami goes back to mentioning his "ride or die" fans and that the last several years have to have proven something, then Aldis says that Sami has things to deal with that he needs to deal with and that all he sees out of Sami is entitlement. Fenix tells Sami to calm down, and has to tell him to calm down and that he does not even recognize him when Sami insists he is the same person while everything around him has changed.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Brie Bella and Paige. Brie says the women's division is competitive and that holding the women's tag titles is like being in a shark tank and everyone wants to take a bite, including The Judgment Day (Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez). Paige says that it took years to win the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships and that they are not giving them up easily, then The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up wanting Paige and Brie to win so they can get the titles back.

Paige and Brie Bella beat Giulia and Kiana James.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton. All of a sudden, Giulia and Kiana James are heard arguing with each other, then Chelsea Green shows up and says that Giulia and Kiana have been bickering since she beat both of them. Tiffany says that some people are not meant to be a team and are oblivious to it. Chelsea says that would never be them, and Tiffany agrees, saying they were never meant to be a team before walking away.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes shows up and sets up his own contract signing in the middle of the ring, complete with a contract for a match with Gunther for the Undisputed WWE Championship as well as a contract for Gunther to come to SmackDown. Gunther shows up and accuses Cody of making this all about himself "like a typical American," and says that Cody cries and complains when the attention is not on him. Gunther says that this is his deal and his title match, and that the Undisputed WWE Championship will be his title. Gunther tells Cody to be professional, address him nicely and say "please." Cody reminds Gunther that he is the one to get the drop on him, got a favor from "The Oracle" Paul Heyman, and refused to sign last week. He says that Gunther is making it weird and that he will make it simple, and tells him to sign the contract so he can guarantee himself an ass whipping at Clash in Italy, remembering to say "please" in the process. Gunther says that Cody did not mean anything he said, and as he rephrases things for Cody, Royce Keys shows up and says that if Gunther will not sign it, he will. Royce Keys gets in the ring, but Gunther gets in the ring and argues with Royce Keys over the contract. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and tells Gunther he has overplayed his hand to the point that his title shot is up for grabs, then makes a match between Gunther and Royce Keys where the winner will sign the contract to face Cody for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Crash in Italy. A furious Gunther leaves the ring, and Cody tells Royce that while he is proud of Royce, he is still easy to find and hard to beat.

Backstage, The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) meet. Solo tells Tama to take Damian Priest out tonight, then leaves with Talla to talk to Royce Keys. Shinsuke Nakamura shows up, but he is taken out by Talla Tonga, who choke slams him through a table.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis tells Gunther again that he overplayed his hand and that he will have to earn his title shot.

Carmelo Hayes beats Ricky Saints with a schoolkid pin while using the ropes for leverage after Saints gets caught by referee Charles Robinson for using the top rope for leverage during a stack-up pin in the corner.

Backstage, R-Truth meets with Royce Keys and thanks him for last week, then says that they are making a clubhouse for The Judgment Day and that Royce should fill out an application to join. Damian Priest shows up after Royce leaves and figures out what is going on, and he finds it suspicious that The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) are attacking everyone but Royce. He says that Royce has yet to earn his respect because of that, and tells R-Truth to be careful. R-Truth tells Priest that he was right about last week and says it will not happen again. Priest says that whatever happens tonight happens, but at least R-Truth will be safe, ashe is not medically cleared and cannot be out at the ring tonight.

Backstage, Danhausen heads to his laboratory for another experiment, which he expects to be bigger, better and larger. He drags out a body on a gurney for his next creation.

Damian Priest beats Tama Tonga. (The match was originally Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga vs. Damian Priest and R-Truth for the WWE Tag Team Championships, but R-Truth is not medically cleared after last week.) After the match, Priest is attacked by Talla Tonga as Solo Sikoa gets in the ring to hit a Samoan Spike.

Backstage, Sami Zayn is seen talking about his recent meeting with General Manager Nick Aldis and complaining that SmackDown is not the same to a planking Johnny Gargano. Candice LeRae shows up not happy that Gargano is not doing any better, and Sami tells Gargano to block out the noise before leaving.

Jade Cargill, B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim head to the ring. Cargill says everyone acts tough when she is not in the building, but when her music hits, everyone gets real quiet. She says that Rhea Ripley found out that pressure busts pipes, and at Clash in Italy, she busts champions, too. Jade Cargill says that the WWE Women's Championship is coming home to her, then Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up. Charlotee says that nobody wants to hear Cargill talk, as this is Flair Country, and that Cargill finally pissed her off last week. Cargill wants to know where Rhea is, and Alexa wants to know why Michin and B-Fab are not making Cargill look good. Charlotte then tells Cargill to take a seat and take some notes, and Cargill tells Charlotte and Alexa to entertain her, as she is getting bored of them.

We see another vignette for "The Glamour" Blake Monroe, who is coming soon to SmackDown.

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss beats "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab by disqualification after Jade Cargill pulls Alexa out of a pinfall attempt and hits her with a forearm on the outside. After the match, both teams continue to brawl, and Charlotte makes quick work of Michin and B-Fab before daring Cargill to face her.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid). Fallon says that in this business, you are either predator or prey, and Tatal Influence is at the top of the food chain. Lainey says all the team wants to act like best friends, but nobody can stand each other. Jacy says they are a unit and loyalty is their currency, and it will pay dividends when they are draped in gold. She tells the women's division to take this as a warning shot before they all fall at the feet of Fatal Influence.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss have a conversation. Charlotte says she is working hard on being a team player, but wants to know where Rhea Ripley was this week. She says they have been outnumbered for the last six months, and Alexa say they need help. Charlotte says she does not need help, but Alexa says theya re outnumbered and Rhea owes them.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa meets with Royce Keys, saying he can help him beat Gunther and become champion. He tells Royce to listen to him, not Jacob Fatu, and that the two of them can take over SmackDown and take everything. He also says that he does not want what happened to Shinsuke Nakamura to happen to him. Royce says he has this, and Solo says that Jacob Fatu said the same thing.

Gunther beats Royce Keys in an Undisputed WWE Championship #1 contender's match. During the match, Solo Sikoa wills Royce Keys to get up from Gunther's sleeper hold, and eventually slides a metal folding chair to Royce only for Royce to throw the chair at Solo. Gunther hits Royce Keys with a clothesline followed by a powerbomb for the win. After the match, Gunther grabs and speaks into the camera only to be hit with a Cross Rhodes from out of nowhere by "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes to end the show.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for April 24, 2026

Backstage, Trick Williams, Lil Yachty and the Gingerbread Man nearly get run over by Danhausen's coffin go-kart.

Jacob Fatu heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Jacob Fatu mentions his confrontation with Roman Reigns and his desire for the Undisputed WWE Championship, as well as how Roman Reigns has said he is not ready. Jacob says that Roman is right when he said he was not ready. He says that he has been hearing that his entire life, then tells Roman to step into the ring and prove it. Suddenly, The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) show up and head to the ring. Jimmy says he agrees with what Jacob has had to say about levelling up, then asks him not to come at Roman Reigns and join the family so that he can do all that without having to face Roman. He also tells Jacob that the fans are not going to level him up. Jey then says it is too late for all that, as he stepped up, opened his mouth, and is now in the deep end and that they will see if he can swim. Jey says Jacob has to look Roman in the eye and get ready for war, then the MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, JC Mateo) show up. Solo tells Jacob that The Usos are lying to him and that he was the one to bring him into WWE, then asks The Usos what they will teach Jacob besides "how to yeet." He tells Jacob that he will not beat Roman unless he has an army, and that he himself has an army. Tama Tonga stops Solo, wanting to know why they are wasting their time and calling Jacob "a lost cause." Tama Tonga says that Jacob cannot beat Roman and that he cannot even beat Solo. Jacob superkicks Tama, and Solo holds Loa and Mateo back before Jacob challenges Solo to a match tonight.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia and Kiana James. Kiana James says that she and Giulia have not been getting respect, but it only fuels the fire to win tonight. Giulia says she has beaten Tiffany Stratton once and she will beat her again and that she feels no pressure; only anger. Giulia leaves, then Kiana blames Cathy Kelley on her and Giulia arguing.

Tiffany Stratton beats Giulia to become the WWE Women's United States Champion!

In footage from earlier this week, Danhausen finds The Miz's home and knocks on the door. The Miz opens the door to find nobody there, but when he cloeses the door, he finds Danhausen in his house. The Miz kicks Danhausen out of his home, but Danhausen disappears again, then reappears in his pool. The Miz kicks him out, and dives at him only to fall into his own pool.

Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton on the stage. Tiffany says it feels amazing to be back on top after having "the runner-up story," and now, she is a champion. She plans to show why the WWE runs on "Tiffy Time" until Brie Bella shows up. Paige also shows up with Brie Bella, and they head to the ring as Tiffany heads to the back. Brie says it feels incredible to stand in the ring as a champion, and says that while she could not compete with her sister Nikki Bella, WrestleMania was incredible, and she is glad she had the idea of calling an old friend she could count on and call "sister." Paige says that when Brie gave her the call to have her back at WrestleMania, it was a great way to come back home. She says it is great to be here with Brie after walking out of WrestleMania as the Women's Tag Team Champions. She admits it was a long, hard road, but she is back home, and SmackDown is her house and that she and Brie are not going anywhere. Suddenly, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss head to the ring. Charlotte says they are happy to see Paige back, but she and Brie have something they want. Alexa says they will not let WrestleMania get in their way. Charlotte says that if Paige wants to prove this is her house, she and Brie will have to face her and Alexa. Brie and Paige are down for a match and want to handle things in the ring tonight, and that leads to a referee coming to the ring. Referee Charles Robinson runs to the ring, making the match official.

Brie Bella and Paige vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss ends with Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) showing up and taking out both teams.

We hear from people in East Palo Alto, some of whom are friends of Royce Keys, speak about Royce Keys as a role model. Royce Keys says it is his time to give back after making it to WWE, and that there is no stopping him.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Cody talks about how he still made the decision to walk up the long ramp at WrestleMania as he felt it was the job of being Undisputed WWE Champion, and because he always gets back up when he falls. He says he wanted to send a message at WrestleMania that he would not be medically cleared afterwards and that he wanted to send a message to Randy Orton - who is not here tonight - saying Orton gave his best, yet he is still standing. He says he wanted to send a message to Sami Zayn, who called him "The Golden Boy," and that he showed up draped in gold because he, his family and he fans will all be gold. Cody then says that anyone who wants to face him that is currently 0-3, then tells outside forces to count their money and mind their business. He says that as champion, it is easy to find him, and that no matter where in WWE anyone might be, he is easy to find and hard to beat.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa tells JC Mateo and Tama Tonga to get the WWE Tag Team Championships back and to not mess it up and let the family down. Tama Tonga asks about Jacob Fatu, and Solo says that he will teach Jacob that without them, Jacob cannot beat Roman.

Damian Priest and R-Truth retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The MFTs (Tama Tonga and JC Mateo) despite Tonga Loa distracting referee Dan Engler.

We see more footage from The Miz's house. He finds Danhausen at his virtual golf course, and Danhausen crotches Miz with a golf club. He accidentally breaks a Slammy Award as he walks off with it, then runs into Maryse. The Miz throws chocolate powder at Danhausen, but hits Maryse instead. Danhausen then gets away on Miz's daughter's bicycle, passing by a Cybertruck on the way out.

Trick Williams slaps a man in the face as he, Lil Yachty and the Gingerbread Man head to the ring.

Trick Williams, Lil Yachty and The Gingerbread Man head to the ring for a championsip celebration. Trick says that the fans are excited to celebrate with the new United States Champion after he came to WrestleMania to "whoop that trick," then Lil Yachty says that he is here to stay, saying he is the Quincy Jones to Trick's Michael Jackson. Lil Yachty then says that the United States open challenge is over and that Trick Williams is the ultimate opportunity, and he and Trick state that there will be no handouts. Afterwards, The Gingerbread Man smacks Trick Williams with the candy cane, then does the same to Lil Yachty when he checks on him. The Gingerbread man then takes off his mask to reveal that he is none other than Sami Zayn. Sami attacks Lil Yachty with a ground and pound, then hits Trick with the Helluva Kick before mockingly dancing around and leaving the ring.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Royce Keys. Royce says it has been emotional since his debut and that he is just getting started at taking everything he wants. Solo Sikoa shows up and says Talla Tonga is not happy about losing the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, then says there is always room for Royce Keys in his family.

Danhausen beats The Miz after cursing The Miz and Kit Wilson with a pyro blast. After the match, Danhausen sets off some more pyro, then The Miz chases after him and leaps over Kit Wilson on the way to the coffin kart, causing The Miz to comedically collide with Kit Wilson.

We see a vignette for Blake Monroe, who is coming soon to SmackDown.

Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea declares that she is champion again after beating Jade Cargill at WrestleMania. She admits that Cargill proved to her that she can go, but it is now her time to prove that she is a fighting champion. She knows that there are women in the back who want to take a shot at her, and if any of them want to step up, now is their chance. Suddenly, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up. Fatal Influence is booed out of the building as Jacy Jayne gives Rhea Ripley credit where credit is due, then says Fatal Influence deserves the credit for taking out everyone's favorite legends tonight. Rhea Ripley admits she is impressed by Fatal Influence's actions tonight, then warns them to stop while they are ahead. Fallon Henley says that tonight is nothing compared to what Fatal Influence will do to Rhea. Rhea says she has been used to the numbers game by now thanks to Jade Cargill, and if Fatal Influence wants a fight, she is ready for a fight, and all Jacy Jayne has to do is take her shot. Jacy tells Rhea that Fatal Influence is always ready to throw hands, then General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and makes a match between Jacy Jayne and Rhea Ripley that happens right now.

Rhea Ripley beats Jacy Jayne by disqualification following a chop block from Fallon Henley as Rhea goes for Riptide. After the match, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) gangs up on Rhea Ripley and lay her out.

Backstage, The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) meet with Jacob Fatu. Jimmy says that The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, JC Mateo) will get involved one way or another and that they have his back, but Jacob says he does not need The Usos' help. After Jacob leaves, Jey tells Jimmy "Man, I told you!"

Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss are met by Rhea Ripley in the trainer's room. Charlotte Flair says that she will get her hands on Jacy Jayne next week, unlike some people, then Alexa tells Rhea that Charlotte is "just like this" as Charlotte leaves.

We see a vignette for Ricky Saints, who debuts on SmackDown next week.

Jacob Fatu beats Solo Sikoa after taking out the rest of The MFTs (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, JC Mateo). After the match, The MFTs attack Jacob Fatu, but The Usos make their way to the ring. Jacob Fatu fights The MFTs off single-handedly. Jacob wraps chairs around Tama Tonga and Jacob Fatu's chairs before hitting them with hip attacks, then beats up Tonga Loa before splashing him through the commentary table.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for March 27, 2026

Randy Orton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Orton talks about how he attacked "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes during their contract signing. He says that he shut out the voices in his head a long time ago, and that for the past few years, he has been thinking about his legacy as well as his fifteenth world championship, but when Cody gave him his blessing to be "The Viper" and the best that he can be. Orton says that he is now listening to the voices again and that he cannot be held responsible for what happens next; he says that his voices are not the problem, but everyone else's voices. Orton then states that there is one person outside of his head that he is listening to. All of a sudden, Matt Cardona shows up and strikes Orton in the head with the microphone in his hand.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis is met by Trick Williams. Aldis admits he is impressed with Trick as of late and that he is giving him a match at WrestleMania. All of a sudden, Sami Zayn shows up, wanting to know what he will be doing for WrestleMania. Aldis says things have not been going Sami's way as of late, and unless something changes, he does not have a spot for him. Sami walks away, but then gets an idea, walks back the other way, punches Trick out, and then says he will have a match at WrestleMania one way or another.

Backstage, Randy Orton meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, angry at what Matt Cardona did earlier and wanting a match with Cardona tonight. He also say that if Aldis cannot make the match happen, the voices are going to take over. Aldis makes the match, but tells Orton to cool off on his own somewhere until then.

The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up before the next match. Nia Jax says there is still time to get tickets for Raw, when they compete Bayley and Nia Jax with the women's tag titles on the line. Nia then says that the fans will want to see "the wanna-be contenders" in Alexa and Charlotte try their best tonight as she calls The Irresitible Forces are the team they want to watch and that there is no spotlight without them. Lash says that The Irresistible Forces are hotter compared to The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) and calls Alexa and Charlotte's friendship "fake" before stating that they will not bring the show down too much and demanding that both teams then wrestle. The Irresistible Forces then watch the next match from ringside.

The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) beat Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair after Lash Legend punches out Alexa Bliss on the outside. After the match, Charlotte confronts The Bella Twins, then The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) attack both teams. All of a sudden, Bayley and Lyra Valkyria show up and brawl with The Irresistible Forces as they are about to double-team Alexa, and they quickly clean house. Charlotte shoves Brie down to the mat as she and Alexa leave the ring.

Backstage, Damian Priest finds R-Truth building a new clubhouse. Jelly Roll shows up, and R-Truth thinks that Jelly Roll is "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio. Rhea Ripley then shows up, and R-Truth takes this as Rhea Ripley and "Dominik Mysterio" getting back together again and hopes Liv Morgan does not see this. After R-Truth says that the clubhouse will have a hot tub, Jelly Roll warns Rhea Ripley that Jade Cargill is mean, violent, big and strong, yet Rhea Ripley is the one to humble Cargill at WrestleMania. He then leaves to get ready for his match with Kit Wilson, then R-Truth runs after him. Rhea congratulates Priest on winning the WWE Tag Team Championships with R-Truth, and Priest admits that while his gold is unexpected, he expects Rhea to get hers at WrestleMania and tells her to take care of Cargill already. Rhea says she is about to do just that.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair checks on Alexa Bliss when The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) confront them. Charlotte tells The Bella Twins that they did not stand a chance without The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend), and tells them to get to the back of the line. Brie says they did not ask The Irresistible Forces to watch their match and tells Charlotte not to blame them, and that they came back to become Women's Tag Team Champions by any means necessary.

Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea says she never expected any integrity from Jade Cargill, as she was fully under the impression to do whatever it took to not get her hands dirty. She did not, however, expect B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim to be desperate enough to stoop down to Cargill's level. She says that if they want to play that game, that is fine, as it is WrestleMania season and she does not care who she has to go through to get there. Rhea says she is dressed for any occasion, and dares Michin, Cargill and B-Fab to join her. Jade Cargill shows up, as does Michin and B-Fab, and Cargill says Rhea sounds real slick for someone who got dropped last week, and says that Michin and B-Fab did not join her; instead, they positioned themselves in power. B-Fab calls Rhea "a selfish backstabber" who does not care who puts in the work as long as she gets the rewards, and Michin says she has been grinding for decades just like Rhea, and while she and B-Fab are forgotten, Rhea gets all the love and attention. Michin says they are tired of this and that they want theirs now, and B-Fab says Cargill gave them the opportunity and they took it, and that with Cargill, what you see is what you got. Cargill then says that Rhea can be their guest if she wants her ass kicked, then says that they spoke with General Manager Nick Aldis and that B-Fab has offered to step up, and that Rhea will learn tonight. Rhea tells Jade that they will learn that actions have consequences and that she is something that Cargill cannot protect B-Fab from. Rhea then calls for a referee, which leads to a match.

Rhea Ripley quickly beats B-Fab by disqualification after Jade Cargill attacks her on the outside. Rhea fights back after the match and goes for Riptide on Cargill, but "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab gang up on her before readying her for Jaded.

Backstage, Kit Wilson meets with The Miz, saying "The Miz Method" worked and that he wants The Miz in his corner. The Miz says Kit Wilson can do this on his own while trying not to have anything bad happen to him. The Miz leaves, then Danhausen shows up and asks Kit what he has that he himself does not. Kit Wilson says he looks the part while Danhausen is toxic. Danhausen interrupts Kit Wilson before he can finish that sentences, curses him and disappears.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Drew McIntyre. McIntyre is taped up, but still walking, and he admits that he can feel the pain from fighting Jacob Fatu last week. He says he is not here to fight tonight, but if Jacob Fatu wants to start something, he will finish it. He then says that Jacob Fatu took WrestleMania away from him and that when a man has nothing to lose, he is at his most dangerous.

Before the next match, Kit Wilson defends the honor of his mother through slam poetry. He then attacks Jelly Rock from behind with the poetry book.

Jelly Roll beats Kit Wilson with a choke slam, earning his first singles win in WWE. Jelly Roll celebrates with his son after the match.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa meets with The MFT's (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo). Solo says that everything he does for the family is done out of love, as he knows just how great they can be. He says that his job is to lead this family, but he cannot lead if he is on the same page. Solo says last week was a little too much, and he apologizes before stating that Roman Reigns would not have done the same. The MFT's leave, but as Tama Tonga is about to join them, Carmelo Hayes asks Tama Tonga if he is going to take a shot at the United States Championship or if he is going to wait until Solo tells him to. Carmelo leaves, then Shinsuke Nakamura catches up with Tama Tonga again. Talla Tonga shows up, then Tama Tonga leaves with him.

Carmelo Hayes' open challenge for the WWE United States Championship is answered by Sami Zayn. Trick Williams then shows up and watches the next match from ringside.

Sami Zayn beats Carmelo Hayes to win the WWE United States Championship for the second time. During the match, Trick Williams takes the WWE United States Championship and throws it into the ring. Sami Zayn takes it, but the referee removes it. Trick gets on the apron, but punches Carmelo with a right hand meant for Sami Zayn. Sami Zayn then hits the Helluva Kick on Carmelo Hayes to win the match and the title.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jacob Fatu. Jacob says he did not show up just to stay backstage, and then heads to the ring to speak to the people.

Members of the Pittsburgh Steelers are seen in the front row.

Backstage, Sami Zayn meets with General Manager Nick Aldis and finds out that he will be defending the WWE United States Championship against Trick Williams at WrestleMania.

Jacob Fatu heads to the ring. Jacob says he is limping, busted open, and has cracked ribs, and it all has to do with Drew McIntyre. He asks McIntyre what is wrong with him after trying to take him out, end his career and take food off his family's table. He says that kicking his teeth down his throat, hitting his head with the WWE Championship, hitting him with a car and even tossing him off the side of a building was not going to keep him down, and that he is still standing. Jacob says that as long as he has air in his lungs, he will dog walk McIntyre ever week. McIntyre shows up and says he is the victim, not Jacob, and that Jacob started this when he accused him of a crime he did not commit, saying that he is guilty until proven innocent and that Jacob is straight guilty because he is a criminal. He says that Jacob Fatu stole everything from him, then says "Screw your damn kids." General Manager Nick Aldis intervenes, saying neither man is in any condition to beat each other up tonight until WrestleMania, when they finally square off one-on-one. He then says McIntyre and Jacob have become liabilities to themselves and WWE and that WWE will not be held responsible, and that their match will be unsanctioned.

Backstage, Jelly Roll meets with Matt Cardona, saying he feels bad after what Randy Orton did to him. Matt Cardona wants to kick Randy's ass tonight, then Jelly Roll leaves and Zelina Vega and Aleister Black show up. Zelina says that Cardona is picking a fight he cannot win to fix his ego, and Aleister says that there would have been if it was just Randy, but Randy now has the voices in his hand.

Chelsea Green catches up with Tiffany Stratton. Tiffany declines Chelsea's help against Giulia.

Giulia beats Tiffany Stratton following the distraction by Kiana James, which allows Giulia to get the knees up for the Prettiest Moonsault Ever and get the win.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. Bayley says that she and Lyra Valkyria that they had to remind The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) who runs SmackDown and who has their eyes on the women's tag team division. Lyra says that she and Bayley are the biggest threat to the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships, and Bayley says that they will get the job done on Raw.

Randy Orton is on the phone with someone. He tells that person that he will see them soon.

Randy Orton beats Matt Cardona. After the match, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes comes out of his tour bus, heads towards the ring, and gets stopped by security and General Manager Nick Aldis. Cody says he just wants to talk to Orton, but Aldis reminds him not to jeopardize the WrestleMania match. Cody stares down Orton from the ring apron, and this soon leads to a brawl. Orton retreats, and security and officials try in vain to stop the brawl when it makes its way outside. Both Cody and Orton fight off security as they continue to beat each other up, and even Jelly Roll has to show up reason with both Cody and Orton. All of a sudden, Randy Orton hits Jelly Roll with an RKO and smiles on his way to the back.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for March 6, 2026

Randy Orton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Orton welcomes everyone to tonight's show and talks about how he has performed in twenty WrestleMania yet has only main evented two of them, and that regardless of one's accolades, there is no guarantee that one will get to WrestleMania, let alone the main event. He can now say that he is going back to the main event of WrestleMania, and while he is not wired to say that he is the best, he lets his peers do the talking, including men he grew up with like Ric Flair, The Undertaker and Harley Race. Orton says that he looks at the locker room that he is part of now and that is he proud that he is still viewed as one of the best, and says that he has earned this. He says that he does not know who his opponent will be, but he and everyone will know in a few hours, and he is looking forward to the two possibilities of Cody Rhodes or Drew McIntyre. Orton then says he is entering WrestleMania with a chip on his shoulder and leaving with a championship around his waist. As Orton states that he plans to win with the RKO, Trick Williams heads to the ring, saying he has voices in his head telling him he has a bone to pick with Orton, as he should be in the main event of WrestleMania with the title shot. He also mentions Orton going up to his pod in the Elimination Chamber and saying that Trick is not 6'5". As Trick continues to speak, Orton messes with Trick before hitting him with an RKO.

In backstage footage from earlier today, General Manager Nick Aldis tells Carmelo Hayes that he is doing a good job with the open challenge for the United States Championship, and says that one open challenge has caught his eye. Carmelo, not wanting to know who his next opponent is right away, says that he will see this opponent in the ring.

Carmelo Hayes' open challenge is answered by El Hijo del Dr. Wagner Jr.

Carmelo Hayes retains the WWE United States Championship against El Hijo del Dr. Wagner Jr. after avoiding a top rope moonsault.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Ilja Dragunov. Dragunov says he is not the warrior that his mother wants him to be and continues to lose, and that he will wait to challenge Carmelo Hayes until he is that warrior again. The Miz shows up and says Dragunov should be seizing every opportunity, and Kit Wilson shows up to question Dragunov's masculinity. Dragunov takes this as a challenge from both men.

Backstage, Damian Priest and General Manager Nick Aldis are met by R-Truth, who says that the two of them are in tonight's Tag Team Turmoil match. Priest, still slightly bewildered, is up to the task. Priest and R-Truth, then Drew McIntyre shows up and tells Aldis to cancel his match with Cody, but Adlis tells McIntyre that he went back on his word that he would let things happen, and that he went back on his. He tells McIntyre to defend the title tonight or forfeit it. McIntyre says the only way Cody will win the WWE Championship is to take it from his cold, dead hands.

The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) head to the ring for their championship celebration. Nia Jax tells the fans to take it all in and get a good lock at two "six-foot thoroughbred stallions," as they now have the women's tag team division on lock. She then says they are generous champs, and says that any and all challengers are welcome. She then says it will not make a difference, and Lash Legend says that if anyone runs up, they will get done up, and calls this the locker room's first, last and only warning that they are here and they are not going anywhere. The two of them have a toast, then pyrotechnics goes off on the stage before Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up. Alexa says that Lash Legend has found a coattail to ride to the top, then says she and Charlotte only lost the titles because The Irresistible Forces interfered in their matches. Charlotte then says that if The Irresistible Forces, they are looking at the next ones in. Giulia and Kiana James show up, and Kiana reminds everyone that she beat Charlotte and Nia in a Triple Threat Match and pinned Alexa in the Elimination Chamber. Kiana says that they are going to WrestleMania one way or another, and Giulia stats that they are leaving with the women's tag titles before Kiana tells Charlotte and Alexa to step aside. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and makes a match between the team of Giulia and Kiana and the team of Charlotte and Alexa, which happens right now.

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss beat Kiana James and Giulia.

We hear from Jelly Roll, who congratulates Randy Orton in winning at the Elimination Chamber and states that he will be seeing Orton and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, who he wishes luck against Drew McIntyre, next week.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, who says that he wants to point at the WrestleMania sign, and the only thing in his way is Drew McIntyre. He hopes that when they speak again, he will be WWE Champion. Cathy Kelley leaves, then Sami Zayn shows up and admits that things have been frigid between them, then says that Cody has had yet another title match fall into his lap. Sami wishes Cody, who has trouble figuring out what Sami is getting at, good luck and that he wants what is best for him despite how he has been acting lately. Cody leaves, then Sami Zayn is angry with himself once again.

We see Trick Williams' interview on iHeartRadio's The Breakfast Club.

The Pannu Family are the recipients of tonight's Cricket 5G Seat Upgrade.

Damian Priest and R-Truth beat The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley), Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis), and Los Garza (Angel and Berto) in a Tag Team Turmoil Match. Fraxiom eliminates The Motor City Machine Guns after Axiom pins Sabin near the ropes, and while Shelley puts Sabin's foot on the ropes, the referee does not see it. The Wyatt Sicks are eliminated after Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa show up and pull Gacy out of the ring and distract Lumis, allowing Los Garza to eliminate them. After the elimination, Gacy and Lumis brawl with Tama and Loa on the way to the back.

Backstage, Randy Orton is met by Sami Zayn. Sami says he is happy for Orton, then asks Orton how he can speak highly of Cody and yet drop him where he stands in the same breath. Orton says that one needs to be selfish in this business, and when Sami asks Orton if that makes him a bad person, Orton says that has made him a fourteen-time World Champion. Orton then tells Sami that he believes in him that he will become World Champion one day and that he just needs to listen to the voices, then leaves. Aleister Black and Zelina Vega show up and tell Sami that it is the nature of the beast.

Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea, knowing that Jade Cargill has a lot to say to her, dares Jade to come to the ring and say it to her face. Cargill shows up and heads to the ring, shakes Rhea's hand, and says that she respects Rhea and her accomplishments, how the people love her, how Rhea earned her way to a championship match against her and how she has gotten into the shape she has gotten herself in. She then says she is not impressed, as she is bigger, more powerful and more worthy of the WWE Championship than Rhea, then says she will beat the hell out of her and that there is nothing she can do about it.Rhea then offers her hand for another handshake, which Jade gives to her before Rhea respects Cargill's honesty, and admits that while she does not impress Cargill physically, Cargill does for her, but she will not go down and stay down after Cargill's best shot. She then says that if she hits Cargill with hers, there is no way Cargill is getting back up, as Cargill's body is built for show while hers is built for fighting. She says that Cargill is more aesthetically pleasing while she thrives and survives in the business. Rhea says Cargill can flex all she wants, because she will fight and she will take the WWE Championship from her with force, and there is nothing Cargill can do about it.

Backstage, Alex Shelley is speaking with Candice LeRae regarding a nearby planking Johnny Gargano. Chris Sabin is wondering what is going on, then says they need to talk after Shelley said he tried to save the match. Sabin and Shelley leave, then Candice tells Gargano to get up and "do it himself." Gargano shows up and heads to the ring.

We hear from Bo Dallas. He tells Solo Sikoa that he keeps putting his family members in compromising positions without understanding the weight of consequences, then says he has something that does not belong to him and that he will not rest until he takes it back. He says that Solo's family will constantly look over their shoulders and realize there is nothing left to do but run.

Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae are in the ring. He says that he is one of the best wrestlers in the world and that he is tired of pretending that he is not, then says that he and everyone else needs to remember who he is, and that he must be "Johnny Wrestling" again. Gargano then issues an open challenge to anyone in the back, and the open challenge is answered by Oba Femi.

Oba Femi beats Johnny Gargano.

Backstage, Jade Cargill is met by "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Michin says she has been waiting to get her pound of flesh. Cargill says she will see Michin next week.

Backstage, Danhausen runs into General Manager Nick Aldis and makes the same demands he made to Raw General Manager Nick Aldis, including a mentor. Nick Aldis notices The Miz and has him mentor Danhausen. Danhausen hopes Miz will make him a champion and a TV star, and when Miz refuses to mentor him, Danhausen curses him, then tells him to remember what happened to "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio earlier this week.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Drew McIntyre to win the Undisputed WWE Championship for a third time. During the match, referee Charles Robinson is dragged into a Cody Cutter by McIntyre. Cody hits the Cross Rhodes, then calls for another ref. Referee Dan Engler shows up, then McIntyre hits the Claymore only for Cody to kick out at one. Engler is eventually hit with a Glasgow Kiss by McIntyre, who then grabs a chair from the timekeeper's area to use as a weapon only for Jacob Fatu to show up and take it away from him. Robinson comes back to just in time for Cody to score a near-fall on a schoolkid pin. McIntyre hits a Future Shock DDT, but misses big on the Claymore when Cody ducks it. Cody hits a Super Cody Cutter followed by the Cross Rhodes for the pin, the win, the title and the WrestleMania main event.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!