Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for June 19, 2026

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes retains the Undisputed WWE Championship against Gunther in a commercial-free match. Sami Zayn is the special guest referee for this match. During the match, Gunther gets angry with Sami for pulling him away from a sleeper hold when Cody grabs the bottom rope. Gunther responds by kicking Sami in the gut and powerbombing him with Sami slaps him for shoving and piefacing him, and a second referee soon shows up. When Gunther hits a powerbomb followed by a stack-up pinfall attempt later in the match, Sami pulls the second referee out of the ring and gets angry with Gunther, but lets the match continue. Cody Rhodes then hits a Super Cody Cutter, and when he goes for a Sunset Flip, Gunther grabs the top rope only for Sami to kick Gunther's arms off of the rope and make a fast count, allowing Cody to win and retain. After the match, General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and argues with Sami Zayn.

Backstage, Gunther, Sami Zayn and General Manager Nick Aldis argue with each other while "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads back to the ring and grabs a microphone. Cody then demands that the Undisputed WWE Championship be restarted right now, and when Sami Zayn does not want to do it, Gunther throws Sami Zayn into the wall, then heads to the ring with the second referee. Cody Rhodes is soon able to put Gunther in a sleeper hold, but Gunther escapes to lock in one of his own. Cody punches his way out of the sleeper, then goes for his own sleeper. Gunther escapes and locks in another sleeper. Gunther backs into the corner, and Sami Zayn runs into the ring and hits Gunther with a Helluva Kick. This ends the match, and Sami punches the referee and takes the Undisputed WWE Championship and argues with Gunther. When Cody grabs Sami from behind, Sami hits him with the championship. When Cody grabs Sami from behind, Sami hits him with the championship. Sami is distraught again, and he throws the title down and loses all composure before leaving the ring and tearing a "Sami Sux" sign to pieces on the way out.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill, B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim. Cargill says that she does what she wants and that the three of them run the division. The three of them have plans for Tiffany Stratton, and Cargill wants Tiffany to put the United States Women's Championship on the line so she can take it like she did the last one: easily.

Backstage, Gunther accuses General Manager Nick Aldis of screwing him out of being champion twice and tells him to do his job. He then demands another Undisputed WWE Championship match at Night of Champions.

Backstage, Jacob Fatu meets up with Solo Sikoa, who does not want to rejoin The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Jacob Fatu). Jacob just wants to make sure nobody interferes in Jey Uso's match tonight, and that he knows Solo is about to make the wrong decision and is running out of time to make the right choice. Jacob leaves, then Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga show up, and Solo says that the two of them will win the WWE Tag Team Championships back. When he says they should do it as a family, Tama tells Solo to stay backstage, as both families' businesses are about to clash and there is no telling who will follow Solo. Talla says the tag team titles, not The Bloodline, is their problem.

We hear from Blake Monroe, who writes about Giulia in her diary before stating that there is a starring role waiting to be filled. Blake Monroe is coming soon to SmackDown.

Damian Priest and R-Truth retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The MFTs (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga). During the match, Solo Sikoa shows up, much to Talla Tonga's surprise, and Priest attacks Solo before narrowly avoiding a choke slam into the commentary table by Talla Tonga, who soon hits the ring post. R-Truth then goes for a schoolkid pin on a distracted Tama Tonga, and he wins and retains for his team. After the match, Tama and Talla walk away from Solo Sikoa.

Backstage, Sami Zayn talks to a planking Johnny Gargano while Candice LeRae watches. All of a sudden, General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and chews out Sami for the fast count, and Sami reminds him that he did not ask to be special guest referee and that he tried to call it down the middle, and that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes should be thanking him as he is still Undisputed WWE Champion. He then says he did not ask for any of this and that he is not going away easily.

Backstage, Je'Von Evans interrupts "Main Event" Jey Uso as he talks about his match tonight, saying that he has been a fan of his for years. When he calls Jey "unc," Jey responds by telling him to keep this same energy so he can slap him so hard he makes him his son.

Ricky Saints beats Carmelo Hayes to become #1 contender for the WWE United States Championship after throwing Carmelo crotch-first into a turnbuckle inadvertently exposed by Carmelo before booting Carmelo into the turnbuckle after Carmelo hits him with the First 48.

Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, apologizing for his actions before stating he is tired of Sami Zayn's actions and that he wants to beat both Sami and Gunther at Night of Champions. Aldis makes the Undisputed WWE Championship match at Night of Champions a Triple Threat Match.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that while she has done it all in WWE, the hunger for championship gold has never faded, and she has proven she is the queen with or without a crown. She aims to win the Queen of the Ring Tournament and hit the fast track to SummerSlam, and she will prove to Liv Morgan why she is queen then, now and forever.

Backstage, Danhausen tries to reprogram The Miz and Kit Wilson back to their old selves when Los Garza demands that Danhausen pay them back for costing them a huge bet for not cursing the Knicks. Matt Cardona comes to Danhausen's rescue, and Los Garza leaves Matt Cardona then briefly turns back into Zack Ryder when he touches Miz and gets zapped.

Backstage, R-Truth is met by Finn Balor. The awkward meeting leads to Damian Priest showing up, and Priest makes it clear that he does not trust Finn Balor.

"Main Event" Jey Uso beats Je'Von Evans to advance to the finals of the King of the Ring Tournament.

Backstage, Jacob Fatu is met by Solo Sikoa, who thinks that Jacob is here to get in his head so that Roman Reigns can get in his business. He says that if Roman wants to mess with his family, then he should come on to Roman's show and mess with Roman's family.

We hear from Giulia, who talks about her international success in WWE before saying that she and Kiana James will see who can survive without the other next week.

Backstage, Tiffany Stratton shows up and says that if Jade Cargill wants a title match, she has got it, and she can beat Cargill on her own. Chelsea Green shows up wanting to be friends with Tiffany again, but Tiffany says she will get the job done on her own.

We hear from Liv Morgan, who says that Charlotte Flair's Queen of the Ring run stops here and that Charlotte is the past.

We hear from Brie Bella and Paige. Brie says Women's Tag Team Champions has not been easy, and Paige agrees. Brie says that Bayley and Lyra Valkyria are good, and Paige says they are up to the challenge. Brie says that Bayley and Lyra will go home empty-handed, and Paige says that there is nothing that they cannot handle as champions.

Backstage, we hear from Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid). Jacy Jayne is irritated with being ejected from the ring in their tag team title match. Lainey says that if Brie Bella and Paige are still tag team champions after next week, they will be getting heir rematch.

Backstage, "Main Event" Jey Uso meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Jey has just one more match before they finally meet for the Undisputed WWE Championship, but Cody tells Jey not to forget about Oba Femi. Cody leaves, then Jey runs into Sami Zayn, who admits that he has not been doing great and feels that Jey will be King of the Ring, but he will be champion and not Cody. When Sami asks what they will do when that happens, Jey says he will do what he has to do. Sami tells Jey to say hello to his family for him.

Charlotte Flair runs into Jade Cargill, B-Fab and Mcihin. Cargill says that Charlotte only has a match tonight because of Tiffany Stratton, but Charlotte says that she and Tiffany are not friends and tells Cargill to get moving. Cargill and company leave, then turn around and attack Charlotte from behind, hurting her left knee in the process.

Before the next match, Liv Morgan laughs as Charlotte Flair is checked on backstage. After Liv's entrance, Charlotte heads to the ring despite being injured, insisting that she have her match tonight. Liv hits Charlotte with a cheap shot to the knee before the match, and Charlotte has to shove medical staff away as General Manager Nick Aldis tells her not to do this. Charlotte still insists on having the match.

Liv Morgan beats an injured Charlotte Flair by submission with a single leg Boston Crab to advance to the finals of the Queen of the Ring Tournament.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 1, 2026

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Cody mentions that earlier tonight, he met with WWE medical staff as well as General Manager Nick Aldis, and now, he is medically cleared for action. He then states that this begets the question of what is next for him, and all of a sudden, Ricky Saints, fresh out of NXT, shows up and heads to the ring. Saints introduces himself as the hottest new star on SmackDown, then mentions his history with Cody, stating that the change Cody feels in the air is a revolution and that the revolution is him as he welcomes everyone to "Friday Night Saints." Cody asks Saints what the difference is between now and the last time he stepped up to him, and Saints says it is Cody himself, saying his three world title reigns have aged him thirty years. He also says that he has been an NXT Champion since then and while he has cheered him on in the background at the detriment of his career, he will be the one to relieve him of his duties. Cody says he is game for action and that Saints also looks game for action, then proposes that they have a match and shakes hands on it. Saints is about to leave, but Saints says he is not here to make a statement, but to change who the show is about. Cody reminds Saints that he is easy to find and hard to beat.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss. Rhea Ripley soon shows up and says she tried to take on Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) alone last week and got ambushed, and she is willing to put differences aside if Charlotte is willing to. Charlotte says they have teamed before but they will not team again, but Rhea says there is three of Fatal Influence and only two of them. Charlotte says all she needs is Alexa, and three is a crowd, then Charlotte and Alexa head to the ring.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Ricky Saints is official for later tonight.

Before the next match, Jacy Jayne says that last week was a small taste of what Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) is bringing to SmackDown, and someone just could not get enough. She then says she thrives off that, because if there is anything Fatal Influence loves to do, it is embarrassing a legend. Jacy proclaims that Fatal Influence will take out everyone's legends one at a time, and that there is nobody better to start with than Charlotte Flair.

Jacy Jayne beats Charlotte Flair after hitting the Rolling Encore on Charlotte after Charlotte boots Lainey Reid off the apron in response to Lainey clobbering Alexa Bliss for Alexa clobbering Fallon Henley for pulling Charlotte out of the Figure Eight. After the match, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) attacks Charlotte, and when Alexa comes to the rescue, they attack her, too. The fans chant for Rhea Ripley, who soon shows up and cleans house. Jacy slips out of the Riptide and nearly shoves Rhea into Charlotte as she escapes. Rhea and Charlotte shake hands.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Brie Bella and Paige. Brie says they are impressed by Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid), but their actions will catch up to them. Paige agrees, saying they will deal with them when the time comes; for now, they are focused on beating The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) and staying champions. As for their match, Brie says that they are powerful former champions, but she and Paige have the experience to get the job done, as SmackDown is their house.

Backstage, Damian Priest meets with R-Truth speaking with Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), who R-Truth thinks is Los Americanos (Rayo Americano and Bravo Americano). Priest says Fraxiom is deserving of a tag team title shot and looks forward to defending the title. Axiom is taken aback, but Frazer is delighted and goes to talk to General Manager Nick Aldis regarding the match. Priest then finds out that R-Truth was talking about taxes with Fraxiom, much to Priest's genuine confusion.

Backstage, The Miz and Kit Wilson try to trap Danhausen with a briefcase full of "free human monies." Danhausen opens the briefcase, takes only some of the money, and walks away with $40,000. When Miz opens the briefcase, he and Wilson gets blasted with white dust.

Damian Priest and The Miz retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom). After the match, Talla Tonga and Solo Sikoa show up, and Talla Tonga lays waste to both teams at Solo's behest.

After the commercial break, Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga are still in the ring. Solo says that Jacob Fatu made a big mistake last week. After a replay of what happened last week, Solo says that Jacob may have taken out his army, Jacob also took out his own family, brothers and blood, which Solo also claims as his. He says they are not here because of Jacob. Solo then says that when Jacob Fatu gets into the building, he is a dead man walking. All of a sudden, The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) show up and head to the ring. Jimmy says Solo may have an issue with Jacob Fatu, but so does Roman Reigns, and that Jacob made a mistake not by attacking Solo's army, but by putting his hands on Roman and put him in the Tongan Death Grip, which Talla's father used and is a sacred last effort. Jey tells Solo and Talla Tonga to hold their plans up until Roman Reigns is done with Jacob Fatu. As Solo says there is plenty of Jacob to go around, Jey says that they are telling them, not asking them. Solo laughs and says he does not have time for this, but when he tells Talla to go, he nods his head when he goes to the ropes. Talla then takes out The Usos in short order, and Solo tells The Usos to tell Roman that he is not his tribal chief and that they do not give a damn, and whether Roman likes it or not, Jacob Fatu is a dead man.

Backstage, Sami Zayn confronts "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for calling him "sarcastic" and "condescending" in response to him calling him "Golden Boy," saying it was a compliment and not an insult and addressing their history, saying they are "the last real good guys" and that they need to stick together. Cody says there is a lot in truth in that, but tells him that they are not the same.
The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) vs. The MFTs (Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga) is official for later tonight.

In backstage footage from earlier today, Danhausen announces that another fan and not Stephen A. Smith paid him off with real human monies, and for that, the New York Knicks are no longer cursed and are still in the NBA playoffs. He also makes it clear that Stephen A. Smith is still cursed.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Ricky Saints. After the match, Cody Rhodes is suddenly choked out from behind by Gunther with a sleeper hold, and Gunther goes for a second sleeper hold as three referees try to pull Gunther off of Cody and succeed. Gunther then makes it clear he wants the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Danhausen heads to the ring. Danhausen says he has spent the money he found backstage on merchandise for the fans. As he tosses merchandise to the fans from out of a bag, The Miz shows up. The Miz says that horrible things have happened to him since Danhausen showed up, and that he has come to the realization that he is cursed. The fans chant "Yes, you are!" as The Miz reluctantly becomes Danhausen's mentor. As they shake hands, Kit Wilson shows up, saying that The Miz is mentoring him and that Miz is enabling him. Kit Wilson tells Miz to wake up, but Miz says that Danhausen has mastered, inspired and zoned in on what it takes to be a WWE Superstar, and asks Kit Wilson if he can say the same. He also says that Kit Wilson is not in the same league as him, and as Miz and Danhausen are about to shake hands, Kit Wilson begs for another chance. Kit Wilson says that Danhausen should not even be in the building and should be banned, and both men demand that Miz shake their hand. Miz ends up shaking hands with Danhausen and raising his hand. Miz then says there is only one thing left to do, and as Danhausen curses Kit Wilson, The Miz attacks Danhausen from behind, and Kit Wilson joins in. Miz hits Danhausen with the Skull Crushing Finale, and Kit Wilson hits a top rope elbow drop.

We see another vignette for Blake Monroe, who gets out of her bathtub and proclaims that nobody burns brighter than she does. Blake Monroe is coming soon to SmackDown.

Royce Keys beats Angel.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton. She wants more challengers for the Women's United States Championship, and issues an open challenge for the title when Chelsea Green shows up and stands up out of her wheelchair. As Chelsea says she will be champion, Kiana James and Giulia show up, with Kiana wanting to secure Giulia's rematch. Tiffany says she has the whole locker room to consider, then makes Kiana her first defense and wants to see how Kiana does when she is not being held back.

WWE backstage staff are seen bringing Trick Williams' gingerbread man costume to the ring.

Backstage, Royce Keys is met by Joseph Fatu, who congratulates him on the match. Royce says he has known Jacob for about fifteen years and he is still the same guy who would run with him seven days a week, even back when they worked at the warehouse. Royce says that The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) are back in business and are ready to take everything, and tells Jacob Fatu to "werewolf his ass up" and prove that WWE did not make him soft, as people like them take everything. All of a sudden, Royce Keys is attacked by Talla Tonga, and Solo Sikoa shows up and attack Jacob Fatu when he tries to make the save.

Sami Zayn heads to the ring. Sami stands next to the the gingerbread man costume in the ring as he says that he really loves coming to Tulsa, Oklahoma, then talks about how the fans turned on Bob Dylan went electric and says that he can relate. He says he cannot figure out what caused the fans to turn on him, but he can deal with it, because he knows his ride-or-die fan club is in the house tonight and will continue to have his back. Sami says that while he can deal with some bad reactions, he cannot deal with disrespect, and calls Trick Williams "a shell of a man wearing a costume" and says it is easy to do what Trick does as he compares him to the gingerbread man costume. Sami says he can do what Trick does in his sleep and that what he really does is hard, as he leaves everything in the ring every day, month and year, and when he looks at the gingerbread man costume, he sees Trick Williams not taking him seriously. He also states that Trick Williams takes nothing seriously and takes that as disrespect, and is about to punch the gingerbread man costume in the middle of the ring. He then shakes the costume's hand before kicking the costume in the groin. Trick Williams then attacks and tears at the costume before pulling a gumdrop button off the costume. Trick Williams rushes in and fights Sami Zayn, and Sami Zayn flees through the crowd.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend). Nia says that they were not pinned to lose the women's tag team championships and that Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss were pinned instead, then Lash Legend says that they have something in store for Brie Bella and Paige. Nia says that "the math is mathing" with two teams in the ring and that they will end Brie Bella and Paige's reign and send them back on the couch with Nikki Bella.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Trick Williams, who says that Sami Zayn crossed a line by attacking both Lil Yachty and the gingerbread man, and that Sami is now messing with his money. Trick says he does not play with his money, then says that Sami has a big problem and that he is facing him at Backlash. Trick then finds out that the gingerbread man did not survive Sami's attack, and Trick says that he will whoop Sami.

Brie Bella and Paige retain the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) after Paige kicks Nia's legs out from under her during the A-Nia-Lator and Brie Bella pulls back on Nia's legs to pin Nia's shoulders to the mat, win and retain.

It is announced, as per Trick Williams, that The Gingerbread Man is dead. In Memoriam, Gingerbread Man, 2026 - 2026. Rest in Pieces.

Backstage, Sami Zayn is talking with General Manager Nick Aldis regarding the funeral of the Gingerbread Man next week, saying that it is proof that Trick Williams takes nothing serious. Sami wants his rematch with Trick Williams for the United States Championship at Backlash, and Aldis gives it to him. Sami leaves, then Danhausen shows up wanting a match with Kit Wilson and The Miz. Nick Aldis says he will get that match if he can find a tag team partner.

The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) vs. The MFTs (Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga) ends with Jacob Fatu showing up and attacking Talla Tonga. After the match, Jacob Fatu smacks Talla Tonga with the ring steps, then confronts Solo Sikoa, who realizes too late from looking at Jacob's left hand that he is ready to hit someone with a Tongan Death Grip. Jacob briefly chokes out Solo, and when Talla grabs Jacob, he gets the Tongan Death Grip before Jacob Fatu puts Talla through the announce desk with a Samoan Drop. Jacob then confronts The Usos, then walks right through them to end the show. Afterwards, Jacob Fatu tells The Usos to tell Roman Reigns that he will dog walk him at Backlash.

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 April 17, 2026

The show begins with Pat McAfee and Randy Orton arriving to the arena in a red Dodge Ram. General Manager Nick Aldis hands McAfee a contract and says they will have a chat, and Orton lets McAfee and Aldis handle things. McAfee asks Aldis to park the truck as he signs the contract. Orton makes his way to the ring, and says he will be the first to admit that he does not need Pat McAfee. He does want him, however, as he is the only straight shooter in WWE and does not tell him what he wants to hear, and tells him what he needs to hear. McAfee told him that he had to do was be himself, as he got into a title match with Drew McIntyre, who he was easy to be himself with. When "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes took the WWE Championship back, he did not want to hurt Cody at first. When Cody gave him permission to be himself, he took exception to that. He says that in his and Cody's give-and-take relationship, he kept giving while Cody kept taking. Orton mentions that he did not benefit from having Cody's back in the last two years, saying Cody did nothing but take and even gifted his then-friend Kevin Owens a title match only for Kevin to turn on Cody. Orton says he tried to reason with Owens only to be piledriven, which nearly cost him his career. He says that McAfee has done more and given to him in more than half a lifetime while Cody has done nothing but take. He says helping Cody has hurt his legacy more than anything else, and at WrestleMania, he will fix his legacy and take his fifteenth world title home where it belongs.

Backstage, Randy Orton rejoins Pat McAfee and General Manager Nick Aldis and gets in the red Dodge Ram. McAfee says everything will change for the better at WrestleMania and that he has put in a good word for Aldis before he and Orton speed off.

The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) beat The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis) in a eight-man tag team street fight after Solo Sikoa hits Uncle Howdy with a Samoan Spike as Tama Tonga is about to hit Howdy with Cutthroat.

Backstage, R-Truth and Damian Priest are talking about potential opponents. R-Truth wants to face The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, Grayson Waller), but Priest says they are on Raw. R-Truth has to be reminded that Danhausen is cursing people, not Asuka. Also, when R-Truth says that Xavier Woods is so bad that he turned Sammy Sosa "lavender white white," Priest reminds him that he is really talking about Grayson Waller.

We see footage of The Miz renewing his vows with Maryse with Kit Wilson running the proceedings. All of a sudden, Danhausen suddenly shows up and ruins everything, and it leads to Danhausen cursing Maryse, who gets inadvertently shoved into a wedding cake by Miz when Miz gets his hands on Danhausen.

We learn more about Royce Keys, such as how his mother suffered a fatal overdose at the age of 61, which still pains Royce Keys and his family to this day. Royce feels that tapping into your emotions make you stronger, and knows that his mother is proud of him.

A police car is seen entering the arena. The driver gets out, and Jacob Fatu is helped out of the back. Jacob Fatu stands on the top of the car as he addresses Drew McIntyre, saying he still wants to double back about his life. He says he is not shamed or afraid of his past life and that he does not live that life anymore, and that McIntyre made a mistake in thinking that handcuffing him would embarrass him, as even the police know he is not the same guy. Jacob Fatu then says that this is where things get twisted, as they have an unsanctioned match and that no authority can keep him from beating up McIntyre or save McIntyre from him beating his ass. He says McIntyre tried to put him back in the jail cell where he changed his life when he already put the cell in his rear view mirror, and when he gets down beating McIntyre's ass, he will put him in the rear view mirror.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss looks back on 2025, and Charlotte Flair looks forward to winning tag team gold at WrestleMania. Alexa says that they need to win tonight.

Two-time NBA All Star Tyrese Haliburton is seen in the crowd.

R-Truth and Damian Priest retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Grayson Waller).

We look back on Charlotte Flair vs. Rhea Ripley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at WrestleMania 39, courtesy of Snickers.

Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab head to the ring. Rhea Ripley also shows up and heads to the ring before Jade can start speaking. Rhea says she would love nothing more than to lay Cargill out for all she has done, but she does not want Cargill to have an excuse not to walk into WrestleMania. Rhea also admits that she is usually not the most patient of people, and says Cargill is lucky she is not in the ring whupping her ass right now. She also says Cargill does not let her meet her face-to-face in the ring because she is scared. Rhea says she will embarrass Cargill at WrestleMania, but B-Fab says Rhea should be the one who is embarrassed because she keeps coming after Cargill and failing. Rhea says she has yet to come for Cargill because Cargill hides behind Michin and B-Fab, social media and anything she can to avoid coming face-to-face with her, and gives Cargill one last chance to say anything to her face alone. Cargill says she is not scared of "some cosplay kid with insecurities" and is everything Rhea wishes she could be as well as "a real bitch," and that Rhea only gets her way because of "a weak-ass locker room." She says she has been trying to scare Rhea, but since Rhea has not learned her lesson, she will put belt to ass at WrestleMania and make her quit. Rhea laughs at the idea of being like Cargill and says she has fought people like Cargill her entire life, and says her insecurities do not hold her back and make her who she is today. She says that if she wants to make it quick, it will not be in her favor, then goes on to call Jade "narcissistic" and a "fake-ass bitch."

Backstage, Solo Sikoa tells The MFTs (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) that they won tonight, and tells Tama Tonga that they did it as a team. Tonga agrees, then Solo tells Talla Tonga to win the Andre the Giant Battle Royal trophy and bring it home. He tells the rest of The MFT's to get Talla ready while he speaks with General Manager Nick Aldis about getting back the WWE Tag Team Championships.

Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Dion Dawkins is seen in the crowd.

Giulia and Kiana James watch the next match from ringside.

Tiffany Stratton beats Jordynne Grace to become #1 contender for the WWE Women's United States Championship. (The match was originally Tiffany Stratton vs. Giulia for the Women's United States title, but was changed hours before the show.)

Trick Williams heads to the ring. Trick says he is usually all smiles, games and jokes, but not tonight, as he has something to get off his chest. He addresses Sami Zayn's actions from last week, saying that he crossed a line. He addresses Sami Zayn hitting Lil Yachty with a Helluva Kick and that he does not know if Lil Yachty will come back, then says that they will not wait until WrestleMania and will take care of business right now before calling Sami Zayn out. Sami Zayn's music hits, then someone in a gingerbread man suit shows up and walks to the ring. Trick introduces everyone to "Sami Zayn, the gingerbread man" before stating that all of Sami Zayn's diehard fans are in Drury Lane. Trick then says that Sunday is all about him and his first WrestleMania where he gets his first United States Championship, and that he is going to whoop that trick. The real Sami Zayn shows up and says he is glad Trick Williams is taking his first WrestleMania so seriously, and that he wishes he was having as much fun as Trick, but he has not had a good time in a very long time. He says that he is not having a very good time even as champion, as are the fans, then says he does not care what he did wrong, as he does this everyday for the ride-or-die fans who have been with him since day one. Sami says there are plenty of ride-or-die fans at home and in Las Vegas, and they will be in his corner at WrestleMania and beyond, then gets annoyed with the person in the gingerbread man suit and tells them to stand in the corner. Sami then talks about his first impressions of Trick Williams before telling him that Trick has not showed him much since four months ago and has not showed him anything where it counts and when it matters. He says that when he looks at Trick, he does not see the future of the business; he sees "a little punk rookie" who is about to walk into his first WrestleMania with one of the best to ever do it and realize that he bit off more than he can chew because he walked in with no plan. Trick says he is the plan and that Sami has been losing himself and crashing out backstage, and while Sami is one of the most respected guys in the locker room, he threw it all away when he got in the game. Trick then says that he is the one who is going to get the job done, but Sami says that Trick is not in his head and that he is not impressed with the gingerbread man. Trick then says he is standing in the ring with two gingerbread men, and Sami Zayn goes for a cheap shot only for Trick to fight back. Sami clotheslines Trick out of the ring, then Sami sees the person in the gingerbread suit and hits him with a Helluva Kick that almost kicks the head off of the suit. Trick then gets back in the ring, hits Sami with the Trick Shot, and raises up the United States title.

We see a video package for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship picture at WrestleMania, courtesy of Progressive.

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Bayley and Lyra Valkyria ends almost as soon as it begins due to The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) showing up to lay out both teams.

We see a video package for Brock Lesnar vs. Oba Femi at WrestleMania.

Royce Keys last eliminates Talla Tonga to win the 2026 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.

We see a video package chronicling the events between Roman Reigns and CM Punk leading to their match for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Cody says he will not be talking about the last three years' worth of WrestleMania, then says tomorrow is all about two men wrestling for the biggest prize of them all in him and Randy Orton. He addresses Orton's claims that he does nothing but take, then says Orton has never taken responsibility in his life. He remembers the things that Randy Orton did in 2009 and how he wrestled for the WWE Championship and lost. As Cody continues to talk about Orton, CM Punk suddenly shows up. Cody asks Punk if he is going to kick him in the balls and turn on him after they hug, but Punk says some people deserve it and that Cody does not deserve it. CM Punk says he is here to stop Cody from mentioning a certain person's name, then mentions each others' suits as well as Teddy Long's wedding, then Punk mentions that he was chasing Cody for a time to become champion, but now they are both champions at WrestleMania. Punk says he is beyond the point of giving Cody advice after Cody has said and done things he has yet to accomplish, and that while Cody has learned from the best, Orton is not much of a teacher. Punk says that tomorrow is uncertain, but he knows that they will both be here on Monday. Punk says that tomorrow is uncertain, but he knows that they will both be here on Monday. He says that Cody has done so much, and that he hopes that everyone joins them for the next adventure. Punk says he is proud of Cody, and Cody tells Punk to get it done. Cody stops Punk before he can leave and mentions Punk's match with Roman Reigns, as well as what Punk himself has accomplished throughout his career. He also mentions that Punk came back better than ever, then thanks Punk for everything he has taught and for sharing this moment in the ring with him and the fans. He also says that if it means anything, Dusty Rhodes would be proud of him, too. Cody tells Punk he loves him, then hugs him. Punk says he is not crying after a Friday in Las Vegas, and that he will cry after he wins at WrestleMania, then says the world titles are theirs as much as they are the fans' before celebrating with the crowd.

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 3, 2026

Randy Orton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Orton asks the fans what they want to talk about, much like "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, then says that it is no secret that St. Louis, Missouri is his hometown and has been for years, and that the next time he is here, he will be world champion. Orton then says he is becoming world champion again for him and for his family, who he considers his real home, and that Cody Rhodes will be heading home from WrestleMania empty-handed. He says that Cody gave him his blessing and told him that he needed to be "The Viper" and be the best version of himself, then says that the voices are talking to Cody and that Stephanie McMahon was right when she said Cody cannot beat him. He says that Cody is not a killer that and that there is no putting back to bed what Cody has awoken. Suddenly, Cody Rhodes shows up and heads to the ring. Cody and Orton brawl, and Cody quickly gets the momentum. All of a sudden, Pat McAfee gets in the ring and kicks Cody in the groin, revealing himself to be the one that Orton talked to on the phone. Orton then grabs a chair and hits Cody with it, then McAfee makes fun of the local sports team as General Manager Nick Aldis shows up with officials and states that it is a tough night for St. Louis. McAfee says that a month ago, he was asked when he would return WWE, and he said that he thought the business passed him by and that it was "absolute shit." He says Orton called him and told him it went in a direction that some people did not like. He says that the older fans who put WWE on their back to take it where it is now feel forgotten about as Orton chokes Cody with the chair, and says he has to watch two 5'5" guys wrestle each other in 45-minute Iron Man Matches for ten weeks straight for no rhyme or reason while Randy Orton is around. He says that gorilla positions keeps circlejerking themselves, that tickets are WrestleMania are somehow still available, and SmackDown has a puppet for a champion after its worst-rated episode of the year while Orton is around, and tells Orton to kick Cody's ass. Orton attacks Cody as McAfee says he has been the one on the phone telling Orton to kill everything, as the business Cody is leading is terrible and that Orton is going to "save the fucking business." Randy places the Undisputed WWE Championship on Cody before whispering into Cody's ear and leaving with Pat McAfee. Officials check on Cody.

Backstage, Pat McAfee and Randy Orton celebrate what they have done to "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes on their way out of the building.

Rhea Ripley beats "Michin" Mia Yim by submission with the Prism Trap. Jade Cargill shows up shortly after the beginning of the match to watch from ringside. After the match, B-Fab attacks Rhea, and while Rhea takes her out, Michin attacks Rhea from behind as Rhea is focused on Cargill, which leads to a beatdown. As Cargill is about to hit Rhea Ripley with Jaded, Iyo Sky shows up and fends off Michin and B-Fab, and she and Rhea clean house.

Backstage, Matt Cardona is met by Aleister Black and Zelina Vega. Aleister says that Randy Orton went back to being himself and that the universe is right again, and Zelina says that Cardona cannot accept that. Cardona says he has talked to General Manager Nick Aldis, and that they can fight tonight. Aleister says that Cardona is a fan of making bad decisions before he leaves.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa talks with the MFT's (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo). He says that Uncle Howdy wants to challenge for the lantern, and wants to know who will take care of Uncle Howdy. Tama Tonga says that the lantern has been nothing but trouble for all of them, including Solo. Solo tells Tama to take care of Howdy, and while Tama obliges, he will do this alone. Solo says he is okay with this, then tells him not to mess this up.

Backstage, Rhea Ripley tells Iyo Sky that she owes her one before Cathy Kelley interviews her. Rhea says that Jade Cargill has proven that she cannot do this one on her own, and that she did not know she had a back-up plan. She says Cargill has followers while she has friends, and Iyo tells Rhea she will always have her back. Rhea says she will always have Iyo's back and that she will walk out of WrestleMania as champion.

Uncle Howdy beats Tama Tonga when Solo Sikoa shows up and almost hits Uncle Howdy with the lantern only to get caught by the referee. This leads to Solo arguing with Tama followed by Uncle Howdy hitting Tama Tonga for the win. After the match, Solo and Tama argue, and Tama takes the lantern, saying that Solo does not need this. He lets Howdy take the lantern and holds Solo back, telling Solo to let the lantern go.

Backstage, Kit Wilson and The Miz - the latter looking sweaty and having had a rough day - are worried about Danhausen's curse when they run into R-Truth, who is setting up a new clubhouse. Miz says R-Truth takes nothing seriously and challenges R-Truth to inspire someone, saying he has never earned anything in WWE. R-Truth takes this as a challenge for the WWE tag team championships and goes to talk to General Manager Nick Aldis.

We hear from Jacob Fatu, who says that is just him and Drew McIntyre one-on-one in an unsanctioned match at WrestleMania. He says his life has been one big rollercoaster, and one is forced into the gutter, one is forced to be part of the environmental and that it all comes down to survival. He says that every decision he made and every day he was locked up brought him to this moment, and in this match, there are no rules, no one to stop him, no one to break it up and no one to tell him what to do. Jacob says that at WrestleMania, McIntyre is in his world, and he will see if McIntyre can make it out.

Backstage, Sami Zayn meets with General Manager Nick Aldis. He finds out that he has pyro, then apologizes for last week. Aldis says it is not necessary, saying that Sami did what he had to, then tells him to go out to the ring and talk to the fans before Trick Williams' theme plays. Rapper Lil Yachty accompanies Trick to the ring, and Trick celebrates having his first WrestleMania match before stating that since the guests are rolling out, it was only right to bring out Lil Yachty. Lil Yachty says that WrestleMania is for legends in the making like Trick, and Trick mentions that the two of them have history before stating that he will do what it takes to win the United States title and that he will "take no lip from no Gingerbread Man." He then says to hit Sami Zayn's pyro, because Trick Williams runs SmackDown. Sami Zayn shows up and says Trick Williams is celebrating before he has won and that pageantry has never really been his thing. He says that he is focused on winning, then says that 50,000 signs will be pointed at the ring at WrestleMania and that all the presentation, pageantry and celebration will not save him from one of the best to ever do it in the ring. Sami tells Trick that he will "humble [his] ass" at WrestleMania, and Trick tells Lil Yachty that "Ginger Snap is pretty upset" and fails to realize that he only has the United States Championship and is going to WrestleMania because of him. Carmelo Hayes shows up and heads to the ring and says he cannot sit back and watch things go down like this, then mentions his history with Trick, saying that he will spin the block and give Trick his receipt. Carmelo says that the end of their match does not sit well with him and that he carried the United States Championship on his back only for Sami to win it in the fashion that he did, and that the fans want him, not Sami, at WrestleMania. Carmelo tells Sami to listen to the fans and give him his rematch. Sami agrees with Carmelo and that he deserves a rematch and does not want to take anything from him, and that while he is sorry that this happened at his expense, he will have to wait until after WrestleMania. Sami acknowledges that Trick Williams got involved in their match, and says the same thing happened to him regarding Cody Rhodes. He says this may have worked in his favor this time around, but he is not happy about it. Carmelo tells Sami to do the right thing. Sami tells Carmelo that he has his rematch tonight. If Carmelo wins, he gets Trick Williams; if he wins, he gets Trick, and this is the last he hears of this. Carmelo accepts and heads to the back. Trick laughs and thanks Sami for finally saving some time, and Sami clotheslines Trick out of the ring.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa confronts Tama Tonga for returning the lantern to Uncle Howdy. Tama says the lantern tore them apart and that it is time to get back to business and take all the titles. Solo agrees, then says that once they finish The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross), they will get back to business. Tama looks at the MFT's (Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) while Solo looks at Tama with a side eye.

Aleister Black beats Matt Cardona.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. Bayley says that losing last year's opportunity sucked, but she has made a career out of fighting with her back against the wall, and they will win the women's tag titles on Monday after Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss get a taste of what will happen at WrestleMania. Lyra Valkyria says that if Charlotte and Alexa had gone through what they did, they would not be a team. Lyra says this is more than about friendship or championship gold, but about making it iup to Bayley and making the last year worth it.

Backstage, R-Truth speaks with Candice LeRae and Johnny Gargano. R-Truth admits that he thought Gargano was dead when he found him on the floor, but Gargano says that he is still alive and about to win the North American Championship before he and Candice leave. Damian Priest then shows up wanting to know why they are facing The Miz and Kit Wilson with their titles on the line, but R-Truth says that Asuka cursed them. Priest reminds him that he is really talking about Danhausen, but R-Truth insists that it is Asuka who did it and that it will not only be like taking candy from a baby, but that St. Louis, Missouri gets to see that it "It's 'Wepa' Time."

We hear from Drew McIntyre. He says that his family was about to see him walk out as Undisputed WWE Champion, but the title was stolen from him again, this time by Jacob Fatu. He says that Jacob has made excuses, justifications and lies as well as a criminal and a thief who has the potential to change but never will because he is a convict. He says Jacob's family made his life hell and that Jacob is the worst of all to the point that he cannot outrun his past. McIntyre says he will prove Jacob "guilty as charged" and show who Jacob really is.

It is announced that Nikki Bella has suffered an ankle injury last week and that she will hopefully get better by WrestleMania 42.

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss beat Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. After the match, both teams are laid out by The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend).

Backstage, The Miz tells Kit Wilson that the curse is a myth, as they have a WWE Tag Team Championship match, and the universe corrects itself. Danhausen shows up with his jar of teeth, and offers to accompany them to the ring to show them how to be him. Kit Wilson calls Danhausen toxic, but Danhausen offers to undo the curse. The Miz tells Danhausen to stay away from the ring, then Danhausen disappears the moment Miz looks away.

Rapper Sexxy Red is seen in the crowd.

Damian Priest and R-Truth retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against Kit Wilson and The Miz. During the match, Danhausen shows up and tries to tag out The Miz, but both the referee and The Miz are having none of it. R-Truth tags in Danhausen, and The Miz tells Danhausen to get out. Danhausen tries to curse The Miz, but The Miz uses referee Dan Engler as a human shield and Engler gets cursed instead. The Miz is able to hit R-Truth with a Skull Crushing Finale soon after, but Engler's wrist suddenly hurts as he makes the three count. This allows Priest to tag in and hit South of Heaven on the Miz to retain, with referee Dan Engler making the count with his other hand. After the match, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes suddenly shows up, hits Kit Wilson with a Cross Rhodes, then addresses Pat McAfee. He says this is like The Outsiders (Kevin Nash and Scott Hall) talking about the third man, except it was Disco Inferno instead of Hulk Hogan. Rhodes says that McAfee will get his receipt and that he and everyone who represents him can kiss his ass, saying that firing him "went well the last time," then mentions everyone telling him he must go to a dark place and become a bad guy to beat Randy Orton. Cody admits he does not know if he can do it anymore, as he has two children and his dream job, and says that while he was wrestling current greats in WWE, they were also wrestling him. He says that he is finally hearing those voices in his head, then says that the fans do not want to hear what they have to say.

Trick Williams and rapper Lil Yachty show up to watch the next match from ringside.

Sami Zayn retains the WWE United States Championship against Carmelo Hayes after hitting Carmelo with the Helluva Kick when Carmelo tweaks the right knee when he misses Nothing But Net. After the match, Lil Yachty congratulates Sami Zayn before putting Trick Williams on a pedestal. Sami confronts Yachty for calling him "The Gingerbread Man," and Trick attacks Sami from behind with Yachty holding Sami down for the Trick Shot to the jaw.

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 20, 2026

Drew McIntyre is seen attacking Jacob Fatu outside of the arena after smashing his car into Jacob's. Officials and security have to pull McIntyre off of a bloodied Jacob. Drew McIntyre then heads towards the ring, stating that he should have been in the main event of WrestleMania and that it was taken away from him. He warns anyone who tries to wrong him that their ass belongs to him. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up with security calling McIntyre the most self-sabotaging person he has ever met as he asks what his problem is, and states that McIntyre is only on his way to unemployment. He says that Donovan - Aldis' son - should be ashamed of having such a corporate stooge for a father. All of a sudden, Jacob Fatu shows up, and McIntyre and Jacob brawl again. This time around, Jacob gets the upper hand, and after tossing McIntyre over the announce table, security and officials try to force Jacob away from McIntyre, but Jacob runs through them in the crowd and splashes McIntyre through the table.

Damian Priest and R-Truth beat The MFTs (JC Mateo and Tama Tonga) to become the WWE Tag Team Champions! During the match, The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis) show up and brawl with the rest of the rest of The MFT's (Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, Solo Sikoa), with Uncle Howdy getting Solo Sikoa with a Mandible Claw on the outside while Rowan, Gacy and Lumis brawl with Loa, Talla and Tama. JC Mateo saves Solo Sikoa saves Solo from the Mandible Claw with a superkick, but runs into a flurry of offense and an Attitude Adjustment from R-Truth for the pin, the win and the championships when he runs back into the ring.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella). Brie says they can beat The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) tonight and that anyone underestimating them is making a big mistake. Nikki says they paved the way for the women's tag titles to exist, then Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up with pints of ice cream. Charlotte calls The Bellas selfish for getting to the front of the line by getting involved in their match, then says they have whoever wins the women's tag titles tonight. Nikki tells Charlotte to watch the match to see how legends get it done, then Brie takes Alexa's spoon.

Backstage, Danhausen shows up as Candice LeRae checks on Johnny Gargano, asks for "twenty human dollars" when Candice asks for help, then runs away before The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) pass by. Sabin reminds Shelley they have a match.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Sami Zayn. Sami says he should be focused on his match with Aleister Black, as he is dangerous, but he cannot stop think about "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes despite all they have been through recently. He says that Cody is a good person who goes the extra mile, and yet he gets taken out and put on a stretcher after Orton does what he does. Sami admits he does not know what to think about this, and feels the more he does the right thing, the more things go wrong and the more he believes that the world he believes in does not exist. Trick Williams interrupts, and Sami takes this as a challenge. Trick says he will be watching and might be giving a few pointers, and Sami tells him to get a very good look.

The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) beat Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom). During the match, Candice LeRae watches from the entrance ramp, and near the end of the match, Candice attacks Nathan Frazer on the outside, allowing Sabin to get the pin and the win.

Randy Orton heads to the ring. Once in the ring, Orton grabs a metal folding chair and sits in it in the center of the ring. Orton says that for years, when his entrance music hit, everyone sang along, and says that he showed love and gave back to the fans in return, which he admits puts a smile on his face. He then says that this smile is the most emptiest feeling he has felt in his entire life, and that while he has been in the business longer than most, nothing last forever, and he wants his legacy measured in the amount of world championships around his waist. Orton mentions winning the Elimination Chamber match, and while he knew who he needed to be to beat Drew McIntyre, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beat McIntyre first. He says that he loves Cody and still does, but Cody took that burden off his chest by telling him to be the best version of himself not just for him and the fans, but for himself, and to listen to the voices. Orton states that sometimes when listening to the voices, he does not always have control, and while he and others can get hurt, he needs that killer instinct to become a fifteen-time world champion. Orton then says that he hears voices in his head, and that they counsel him, they understand, and they talk to him and tell him that he will beat Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the main event of WrestleMania.

Backstage, Randy Orton receives stares from fellow Superstars, then confronts Matt Cardona. Orton says he has no beef with Cardona, who confronts him for what he did to "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes last week. Orton asks Cardona if he has action figures to play with before calling him "a mark-ass stooge" and an "indy nerd" before forearming him and telling him to stay out of his business.

Before the next match starts, Trick Williams shows up to watch from the announce table.

Aleister Black beats Sami Zayn after Trick Williams throws his drink at Sami Zayn for shoving his foot off the announce table, which causes Sami to punch Trick a couple of times before sliding back into the ring only to run smack into a Black Mass.

Backstage, Matt Cardona wants General Manager Nick Aldis to give him a match with Randy Orton, but Aldis says it is not happening. Cardona leaves, then Carmelo Hayes shows up and finds out that the United Stats Open Challenge has been closed because somebody made a compelling argument to be the next opponent. Ilja Dragunov shows up and says he thought about what Carmelo told him, saying that Carmelo is right and that while he will always be fighting himself, he cannot be the best if he does not take the shots that are right in front of him. Carmelo says that for one of them, tonight will be champagne, but for the other it will just be pain. Dragunov says the pain will entertain, but asks if it will be his or Carmelo's.

We hear from The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend). Nia says it has been years since since The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) have teamed up and have never won tag team gold, and that they have a snowball's chance in Hell of beating them. Lash Legend says that The Bella Twins are just trying to relive their glory days and trying desperately to stay on their heels, then says that other people want their titles and that it is time to put them all in check. Nia says The Bella Twins will be lucky to survive tonight after they demolish them, and all The Bella Twins can do about it is nothing and like it.

Jade Cargill heads to the ring. Cargill says she is not here to play around and calls out Rhea Ripley, as she knows she is backstage. Rhea Ripley shows up and heads to the ring. Rhea says that they said all that there is to say and that she does not feel like talking to her anymore, but Cargill says that while Rhea Ripley needs the WWE Women's Championship, she does not need the title or the fans. She says that Rhea Ripley has fought to be something, then says that with or without professional wrestling, she has always been "that bitch." Rhea is right about Cargill saying she needs the title, as she lives for this after having fought for this since she was sixteen years old. Cargill says she does not care about Rhea has had to sacrifice or the rest of the locker room, as she made wrestling matter, and without her, Rhea disappears. Rhea takes exception to the disrespect that Cargill is showing, and says that as long as the WWE Women's Championship has been around Cargill's waist, the title needs her, and now she wants that title and she is going to take it. Rhea then welcomes Cargill to the big leagues and dares Cargill to hit her after stating that they are done talking, but Cargill says she will do it on her time and leaves. As Cargill is on her way out, she is confronted by "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab, the former carrying a shinai, but instead of being against Cargill, they join her, and the three of them surround the ring. Rhea fends them off, but the numbers game takes over, and Michin and B-Fab hold Rhea down for a superkick to the face from Cargill followed by Jaded.

Backstage, Kit Wilson speaks with The Miz as he talks about dealing with Jelly Roll. The Miz is preoccupied with how his recent vacation was ruined, then Danhausen shows up wanting to be The Miz's enforcer. Kit Wilson says neither of them want Danhausen around, and when Danhausen tells Miz he can stay cursed, a ladder falls behind him as Danhausen leaves. The Miz tells Kit Wilson to go out there and implement "The Miz Method," then another ladder falls and lands on him after Kit Wilson leaves.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa is furious with The MFTs (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) with losing the WWE Tag Team Championships and blames it all on JC Mateo and Tama Tonga. Tama Tonga tells Solo Sikoa to return the lantern back to The Wyatt Sicks, as he has not been acting like himself since he took it and that he is now sounding like Roman Reigns. All of a sudden, Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre brawl again, and McIntyre goes for Jacob's eyes as security and officials have to break up yet another backstage brawl.

Carmelo Hayes retains the WWE United States Championship against Ilja Dragunov.

Backstage, Jelly Roll congratulates Damian Priest and R-Truth on becoming tag team champions, then Priest asks Jelly Roll to join them for drinks later. He and R-Truth leave, then Jelly Roll meets Randy Orton. Orton apologizes to Jelly Roll, but Jelly Roll says he is worried about him and knows what it is like to be the bad guy and judged for the worst thing he ever did, and reminds him of how he fought from being feared backstage to being loved and giving back. He says he does not understand why Orton would go back. Orton admits he was out of line with Matt Cardona and does not know where to begin, but Jelly Roll just tells him to do the right thing and work from there.

Kit Wilson heads to the ring. After the commercial break, Kit Wilson states that Jelly Roll started everything when he crossed a line, then says that they will finish this as he calls Jelly Roll out. Jelly Roll heads to the ring, and Kit Wilson rolls out of the ring as Jelly Roll gets in. Jelly Roll tells Kit Wilson says that if this is what he wants, this is what he gets. He then calls for a referee so they can have a match. Kit Wilson says that they should settle things like civilized gentlemen, saying he fights with his words, not his fists. Jelly Roll is surprised that Kit Wilson wants a rap battle, stating that he is a decent dancer, but not a rapper. Kit Wilson then proposes a slam poetry battle, then proceeds to mock Jelly Roll's face tattoos, criminal history and weight loss. Jelly Roll fires back by mentioning Kit Wilson's mother more than once. Kit Wilson attacks Jelly Roll from behind, then goes up to the top rope for a corkscrew elbow and nails him with it.

Backstage, Giulia tells Kiana James that she did not get the job done and that she is going to put Tiffany Stratton in her place. Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre show up, and Chelsea proposes they team up against Tiffany. Giulia says she does not need any help from her, then she and Kiana leave. The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up, and Nia shoves Chelsea - and her wheelchair - out of the way.

Backstage, Jelly Roll meets with General Manager Nick Aldis demanding a match with Kit Wilson. Aldis gives it to him for next week.

The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) retain the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) by disqualification after Charlotte Flair attacks Nia Jax on the outside. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up early in the match to watch from ringside, and after the match, all three teams are going at it. The Irresistible Forces soon come out on top in the three-team brawl.

Backstage, Randy Orton is on the phone. He tells the person on the other end that he will go into the ring and "fix it."

Randy Orton heads to the ring again. Once again, he has a metal folding chair in his hand. At first, Orton sits down in the center of the ring, but decides against it before stating that he has an apology to make and asking that Matt Cardona come to the ring. Orton says that he has been out of his head and is legitimately sorry for how he treated both him and his hobbies, then asks Cardona to forgive him. Both men shake hands and hug, then Orton kicks Cardona in the groin, hits an RKO, rips his shirt off and tosses him out of the ring. Orton then pummels Cardona on the announce table. An official shows up to stop Orton as he ready the ring steps, and more officials and security show up soon after. Orton stops, then grabs Cardona and tosses him back in the ring. Officials and security flood the ring as Orton wraps the metal folding chair around Cardona's left arm, and Orton stops again. When Orton is given room, he turns around, then turns back to Cardona and stomps the chair, injuring Cardona's arm. Orton and Cardona are separated, and as Orton is forced to the back, something is happening in the parking lot. Drew McIntyre and Jacob Fatu are brawling again, and Nick Aldis shows up with security. Both men drop from a balcony on the side of a building as Aldis as officials yell at them to stop, and the show fades to black.

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 13, 2026

The show begins with Drew McIntyre showing and telling General Manager Nick Aldis he can take the contract for the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania and shove it up his ass, and that Aldis could not help himself and had to make sure Cody Rhodes got a title match before WrestleMania. Aldis shows up and says there is nothing to make right, then says that McIntyre headbutted a referee last week during that match and is playing the victim again. Aldis says that McIntyre should be concentrating on the consequences on his own actions. When McIntyre calls him a "corporate stooge," Aldis tells McIntyre that he knows who he is and where he came from, then says that the one shot that Cody got at McIntyre, he beat him. McIntyre gets in the ring and gets in Aldis' face, calling this "bullshit" before telling him to make this right or else. Jacob Fatu shows up and heads to the ring, saying that McIntyre would not even be champion if it were not for him. He says that he fixed the situation last week so McIntyre is no longer champion, and that McIntyre wants to blame everyone else when he screwed him. He asks McIntyre what he is going to do about it, and McIntyre says he is done with everyone and that he quits. McIntyre then exits the ring and leaves through the crowd.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa tells the rest of The MFT's (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) that the planned work perfectly, and while The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) are not #1 contenders and they still have the lantern, they still have work to do. He tells Talla Tonga to take care of tonight's business, then entrusts the lantern to Tama Tonga. As The MFT's leave, Tama Tonga notices that Shinsuke Nakamura is behind him. Nakamura asks Tama when he will decide to be his own man, then Solo shows up and tells Nakamura to stay away from his family before he gets hurt.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis and Jacob Fatu are surprised by Drew McIntyre's actions. When Jacob says that he was about to whup Drew McIntyre, Trick Williams shows up saying he is the only one doing the whupping around here. Jacob Fatu becomes absolutely furious with Trick and leaves when Aldis tells him to calm down, and when Trick does Aldis to do his job, Aldis does just that and puts Trick in a match with Jacob tonight.

The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy and Erick Rowan) beat The MFT's (Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga) after Nikki Cross grabs the lantern on the outside following a ringside brawl with Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis and the rest of The MFTs (Tonga Loa, Tama Tonga, JC Mateo). After the match, Uncle Howdy reclaims the lantern, but Tama Tonga attacks him and takes it once again.

Backstage, Damian Priest and R-Truth are focused on becoming tag team champions when Los Garza (Angel and Berto) show up, saying they are #1 contenders because of their hard work. Damian Priest agrees before saying he and Truth wiped the floor with them anyway, and this leads to both teams having a match tonight.

The Spears Family are the recipients of the Cricket 3G Seat Upgrade.

We hear from Kiana James and Giulia. Giulia says that Tiffany Stratton is not deserving of the Women's United States Championship, and Kiana says she has zero issues shutting Tiffany up tonight.

Jade Cargill beats "Michin" Mia Yim after licking her on the forehead prior to the choke slam followed by Jaded. After the match, Cathy Kelley tries to interview Cargill, but Cargill takes the microphone and tells her to get out. She says that what happened to Michin is what happens to those who believe their own hypes, and says that when people see her in the hallway, they get real quiet. Everyone says she should be scared of one woman - Rhea Ripley - but she does not see a challenger or a threat and she has never been afraid of anything. She says she will beat Rhea's ass come WrestleMania and show why she is always on top. Rhea Ripley suddenly shows up and dares Jade Cargill to hit her, but Cargill gets out of the ring. Rhea says Cargill always runs her mouth, but wants to run out of a fight with her. She says that Cargill is not a symbol of women's empowerment, and at WrestleMania, Cargill is going to be her bitch.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Aldis says that Drew McIntyre is just being Drew McIntyre, and asks him to focus on tonight's contract signing. Sami Zayn shows up and congratulates Cody, and says that he is rooting for him. Cody says he knows that he said the same thing to Randy Orton, and knows that Sami Zayn wants a title shot off of the back of everything. Sami says he congratulated Randy Orton because he is Randy Orton and that there will be nobody like Orton, and while he looks up to Orton, he does not look up to Cody because they are friends and equals. Cody says that he looked up to Sami, then says Sami does not have to look up to him and that he can look at the Undisputed WWE Championship instead before leaving. Sami gets angry with himself again, then Aleister Black and Zelina Vega show up. Aleister asks Sami if this is not meant for him, but Sami tells Aleister to stay far, far away from him.

Backstage, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab are met by Rhea Ripley. Rhea compliments Michin on putting up a fight against Jade Cargill. Michin congratulates Rhea on the title match and says that if Cargill did not take out her shoulder, they would be having a completely different discussion.

The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) show up before the next match. Nikki says that as much as they would like to wish Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss luck, Brie says they are here for gold and that they are next in line for the women's tag team titles. Nikki says that she and Brie will be watching the competition from ringside.

The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) retain the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss by disqualification after Brie Bella attacks Nia Jax in response to Nia throwing Nikki into the path of a superkick on the outside and shoving Brie afterwards. After the match, all three teams go at it, but The Irresistible Forces stand tall in the end following an assisted leg drop out of the corner by Nia.

Backstage, Jelly Roll meets with Damian Priest and R-Truth briefly, then congratulates Randy Orton on making it to the WrestleMania main event. Orton tells Jelly Roll to whip Miz's ass if he starts talking too much during Miz TV.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss run into The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella). Alexa says she and Charlotte had their match won until they got involved, and Charlotte says The Bella Twins cost them the women's tag titles. Brie says they came back for the women's tag titles, and now, they are next in line.

Damian Priest and R-Truth beat Los Garza (Angel and Berto).

Backstage, Alex Shelley is with Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae. Shelley says that they need to get back to basics and get Johnny Gargano back to "Johnny Wrestling." Sabin shows up after Johnny and Candice leave and says that they have a match next week against Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), and he wants Shelley to prove he is still focused on the team.

Backstage, Danhausen meets with The Miz, and wants his own version of Miz TV to the point that he replaces it. Miz wants nothing to do with this, and Danhausen curses him again. When The Miz is about to talk back to Danhausen, Danhausen has disappeared.

It's time for Miz TV. Tonight's guest is Jelly Roll. Jelly Roll heads to the ring, and Jelly Roll says he was not going to miss Randy Orton signing the contract for his WrestleMania match tonight. Miz says that Jelly Roll has everything, and just needs a mentor like him, and all Jelly Roll has to say is "yes." Jelly Roll says "no," saying that The Miz has a history of stabbing partners in the back. The Miz says that he is part of Jelly Roll's redemption story and that he is the reason Jelly Roll lost 250 pounds. Jelly Roll takes exception to The Miz taking credit for his own hard work and says that he will whip his ass, and when Miz demands respect, Jelly Roll calls him "a locker room loser." Kit Wilson shows up and tells Miz to stop wasting his time, saying the problem is not Miz mentoring Jelly Roll, but Jelly Roll himself, due to building a brand of bad behavior, face tattoos and criminal charges in addition to mocking him while he is having a serious conversation. He says that Jelly Roll is running away from who he truly is, which is "fatphobic." He says that Jelly Roll inspires nobody and upholds an impossible beauty standard, which makes him toxic. Kit Wilson shoves Jelly Roll, and Jelly Roll shoves him back. Jelly Roll then goes for a punch, but Kit Wilson dodges and Jelly Roll ends up punching out Miz instead.

Backstage, Ilja Dragunov and Apollo Crews laugh about Miz getting knocked out when Carmelo Hayes shows up. Apollo leaves, and Carmelo says that due to Dragunov's mother's passing, he may not be up to the United States Open Challenge. Dragunov says he is stuck between two extremes - extreme confident and ultimate self-doubt - and that this is the only way he knows how to live. Carmelo says he takes shots and makes shots, and if he did not take the shot, he would not be where he is today. Carmelo says Dragunov needs to lock in, as a lot of people are wanting to face him.

Backstage, Tiffany Stratton says she is beating Giulia and coming for the Women's United States Championship. As she does, Chelsea Green shows up, and Tiffany shoves her wheelchair out of shot before Alba Fyre runs after Chelsea.

Actress Vanessa Hudgens and UFC Hall of Famer Mark Kerr are seen in the crowd.

Backstage, Kit Wilson tells The Miz that if Jelly Roll wants a fight, he will get it. Danhausen then shows up with a jar of teeth after Kit Wilson leaves and says he could have defended Miz's honor. He says that there is only way to reverse the curse, then disappears.

Tiffany Stratton beats Kiana James. Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre show up during the match to watch from the bottom of the entrance ramp. During the match, Giulia saves Kiana from the Prettiest Moonsault Ever, but after Tiffany hits Kiana with a tope suicida, Chelsea tries to attack Tiffany with a foreign object only to be stopped by Giulia. Giulia then gets on the ring apron to grab at Tiffany, but Kiana ends up inadvertently booting Giulia off the apron and into both Chelsea and Alba after Tiffany dodges the big boot. Tiffany soon wins the match with the Prettiest Moonsault Ever.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Trick Williams, who says that General Manager Nick Aldis needs to do his job and had no business making tonight's match with Jacob Fatu. He says that he will whip Jacob Fatu's ass for calling him out without his consent, then Sami Zayn shows up and says Trick has been talking a big game only to get dropped repeatedly because he keeps running his mouth and not backing it up. He says that Trick is embarrassed and he should be, and Trick says Sami should be lucky he has a match or else he would whip his ass right now. Sami says he is here every week and is easy to find, and that he will be seeing Trick around.

Trick Williams beats Jacob Fatu after Drew McIntyre shows up from out of the crowd and attacks Jacob Fatu on the outside. After the match, Drew McIntyre hits Jacob Fatu with a Claymore before giving a thumbs down.

Jelly Roll is seen in the crowd as General Manager Nick Aldis is in the ring for the contract signing for Randy Orton vs. "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania. Aldis welcomes Drew McIntyre back to SmackDown before putting him in a match with Jacob Fatu next week, then Randy Orton heads to the ring, followed by Cody Rhodes. Cody talks about his first impressions of Orton and how Orton was the only person that he had when he returned to WWE, then says that while he is not his son or his father, he is proud to be his boy. Cody then signs the contract. Orton is about to sign the contract when he stands up, picks up the microphone, and says that he needs WrestleMania, but he expected to face McIntyre, not Cody. Cody says that he will get the Legend Killer and the master of the RKO when the bell rings at WrestleMania, and that after the match is over, he will always love him. Orton then signs the contact, shakes Cody's hand, then slams him on the table and kicks him in the groin. Orton then tears at Cody's tie and shirt before hitting him with the ring steps. Nick Aldis confronts Orton only to be shoved to the floor before Orton goes back on the attack on a now busted-open Cody, and security steps in as well as Jelly Roll. Orton shoves Jelly Roll, then seemingly comes to his senses and leaves as Aldis calls for medical. Cody is now lying on the announce table with his head on the ring steps, and Orton suddenly returns from out of the crowd with a metal folding chair before smashing it on Cody's head. Orton then looks at the Undisputed WWE Championship while seated on the chair in the middle of the ring as the show fades to black.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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