Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for September 11, 2026

We are introduced to the Spanish announce team of Marcelo Rodriguez and Jerry Soto.

Randy Orton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Randy mocks Cody Rhodes' "What do you want to talk about?" opening line before addressing him, saying that Cody showed the world exactly who he is, saying Cody is not a killer, but a good man. He says that Cody is a good father, husband and friend, and that it takes a lot to put down a legend, as he knows first-hand from when he was "The Legend Killer." He says it takes a piece of one's soul and that Cody's soul "is not for sale." Orton says Cody is not a killer, but he is, and he does not care if anyone perceives him as being a good person, as that means nothing to him. He says that he will not hesitate to pull the trigger on anyone who comes between him and his fifteenth world title, and whoever is Undisputed WWE Champion after tonight should know that he is coming for him. Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis tells Chelsea Green that if her mask is off when she is injured, she will lose the Interim WWE Women's Championship. Chelsea says she has been bedazzling her mask as she thanks Aldis, who tells her that she has earned this. Chelsea then runs into Tiffany Stratton, who says she will be in her corner tonight in her match.

WWE acknowledges the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.

Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against Ricky Saints. After the match, Ricky Saints refuses Fenix's sign of respect.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Sami Zayn, who says that this is all about justice and that he would have been happy if Kevin Owens or Johnny Gargano beat CM Punk, but when he tried to help them, it did not work out. He says he has realized that it could not be Gargano or Owens, and that he must get justice by his own hands against CM Punk. Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae show up, and Gargano makes it clear that if Sami wins the Undisputed WWE Championship, he is next.

Nikki Bella beats Paige with a stack-up pin in the corner while putting her feet on the ropes for leverage after the referee is nearly crushed between Paige and Nikki in the corner.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend). Nia Jax says Chelsea Green should never have been champion in the first place and that she will end Chelsea's career when she breaks her face. Lash Legend says that if Tiffany Stratton has any smart ideas, she will have a smarter one in breaking her ribs.

Trick Williams heads to the ring. On the way to the ring, a fan in the front door hands Trick a soccer ball. Trick mentions the "Quinones" chants, saying that Quinones is the best futbol player that Mexico has to offer much like how Trick is the best wrestler WWE has to offer. He compares how Quinones scores goals to how he kicked Baron Corbin's ass at Sunday Night's Main Event before kicking the ball into the crowd, and says he might have to change his name from "Tricky Two-Times" to "Tricky Two Titles." Trick then thanks Lil Yachty for surviving the five minutes beforehand and getting him the title shot that he made the most of, then introduces Lil Yachty to the ring before realizing he has to put him on a pedestal during the introduction. Suddenly, Baron Corbin is seen dragging a beaten-down Lil Yachty to the stage. Trick chases Corbin to the back, then he and officials check on Lil Yachty before bringing him to the back. Corbin then returns with Yachty's Trick Stick and hits Trick in the back with it, then says it is not over between him and Trick.

Backstage, Finn Balor meets with General Manager Nick Aldis looking for a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship against whoever comes out on top tonight. Danhausen shows up and cleans the monitor behind them, and Aldis gets his attention when he mentions that Finn Balor should focus on Money in the Bank. Aldis tells Danhausen that they will discuss it another time. Gunther shows up and tells Finn Balor that if he had any decency, he would have retired years ago, and that it might take somebody beating it into him. Gunther leaves, but Finn Balor says that Gunther is "a whiny little bitch" and that he has heard it all before. Gunther confronts Finn Balor for this and gets a punch to the face for it, and Aldis and Finn Balor continue their conversation elsewhere after Finn Balor calls Gunther a "pendejo." Danhausen realizes that he should probably not bother Gunther after this.

Chelsea Green retains the Interim WWE Women's Championship against Nia Jax after Tiffany Stratton takes the punch meant for an unmasked Chelsea and Nia Jax misses the A-Nia-Lator, allowing Chelsea to put her mask back on and vault over Nia Jax off the top rope for an Un-Pretty-Her to win and retain.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews CM Punk. Punk says that bad behavior needs to be taught a lesson, and that sometimes, when you become the champion, you win "the idiot lottery." He says that Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens are problems, as are Gunther, and that he will not lose his title to "some guy who jerked it to his nine-day reign." Punk then says he will smash Sami's face with the GTS so it is hopefully wired shut and nobody has to hear Sami's excuses when he loses.

The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) retain the AAA World Tag Team Championships against Damian Priest and R-Truth. After the match, Priest and R-Truth hug, then hands R-Truth's sombrero back to him before turning on Truth with a clothesline. He then takes Truth South of Heaven in the center of the ring.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss are met by Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid), who tell the two of them that they have a lot to work on with Tatum Paxley. As Jacy Jayne mentions her future plans, Tatum shows up behind from behind Fatal Influence and reminds Fatal Influence that they beat them last time. Fatal Influence leaves, then Charlotte says that she can trust Alexa, but has yet to trust Tatum after what she calls "a rookie mistake" at Sunday Night's Main Event.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Rey Fenix. Fenix says that Penta winning the World Heavyweight Championship would mean a lot for the family, then mentions his own title defense before Ricky Saints shows up to apologize for not showing respect, then shakes Fenix's hand saying that Fenix is the better man before leaving. They shake hands, then Saints turns around only to attack Fenix from behind and tell him that he is the better man tonight.

Sami Zayn beats CM Punk to win the Undisputed WWE Championship for the second time! During the match, Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae show up, and Gargano distracts the referee so that Sami can put Punk in the Figure Four Leg Lock. Punk grabs Sami's hand and goes for the Anaconda Vice as Candice LeRae distracts referee Dan Engler, who is unable to see Sami Zayn submit. Gargano then grabs the WWE Championship to use it as a weapon, but Punk ducks and hits Gargano with the GTS, causing Gargano to plank again. As Engler removes Gargano from the ring, Sami tries to grab the WWE Championship, but Owens takes it from Sami and tries to hit Sami with it only for Sami to duck, causing Owens to inadvertently hit Punk instead. Sami then hits Owens with a low blow, then shoves the Undisputed WWE Championship out of the ring before pinning CM Punk to end the show as a champion again.

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for August 6, 2026

Ricky Saints beats Axiom.

Ivy Nile beats PJ Vasa.

American Made (Julius and Brutus Creed) beat Romeo Moreno and Noam Dar.

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for July 30, 2026

Carmelo Hayes beats Ricky Saints.

The Latino World Order (Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro) beat Harlem Lewis and Harley Riggins by submission with a cross arm breaker from Wilde to Riggins.

Lyra Valkyria beats Wren Sinclair by submission.

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for July 16, 2026

Ricky Saints beats Matt Cardona.

Ivy Nile beats Thea Hail.

The Latino World Order (Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro) beat DarkState (Cutler James and Osiris Griffin).

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!

Raw Deal - Raw recap for June 8, 2026

Oba Femi heads to the ring to start tonight's show. He says that while he and Paul Heyman do not agree on many things, they both agree that Heyman believes in spoilers, not predictions, as does he. Oba spoils that he will run thorugh every single man in the King of the Ring Tournament down to the last one at Night of Champions, and when he does, he will take his rightful place upon the throne as King of the Ring. He says that he will take the crown, because he needs a crown to be the ruler. Oba says that 2026 is the year of collecting trophies, with the biggest one being the head of Brock Lesnar, as they are both 1-1 and Lesnar is nowhere to be seen, and he gets even in the most underhanded way possible by cheating and attacking from behind. He says that Heyman may boast about what has been unleashed in "his big, bad beast," but all he has seen for the last three weeks is "a big, bad bitch." Oba says that Lesnar cannot stay away forever, and when he sees him, he will settle the score. Suddenly, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio shows up and tells Oba that he does not rule anybody, and that he has been worried about Lesnar when hes hould be worried about him. He asks "How long you been here, rookie? A cup of coffee?" as the fans boo Dominik and cheer for Oba, then brags about being a twenty-year veteran of the game and the king of the luchadores, and says that when he becomes King of the Ring, he will rule over Oba. Dominik tells Oba to make it easy for himself by being the knee and "respect[ing] the 'stache." JD McDonagh is suddenly behind Oba with a metal folding chair, and when McDonagh hits him in the back, it has no effect. Oba punches the chair into McDonagh's face, and when Dominik hits the 619, it does not do much either, as Oba soon catche Dominik out of the air and tosses him across the ring. McDonagh makes the save for Dominik before Oba can hit Dominik with the Fall from Grace, and Oba tells Dominik that he screwed up tonight and that even though Rey Mysterio is his father, next week, he will introduce Dominik to his daddy.

We are introduced to the French commentary team of Christophe Aguius and Nadir Mohammedi.

Backstage, Jackie Redmon interviews Seth "Freakin'" Rollins. Rollins says time is a flat circle and that he was the World Heavyweight Champion and the leader of The Vision the last time he was in Paris, and now he is going to win the King of the Ring Tournament and take back the title that he never lost. Rollins says he has a date somewhere down the line with Roman Reigns, who he used to call a brother, saying that Reigns cannot win on his own and cannot beat him when it matters most. Rollins tells Reigns that he has something that does not belong to him, and that he made the World Heavyweight Championship.

Liv Morgan beats Chelsea Green, Alexa Bliss and Becky Lynch to advance in the Queen of the Ring Tournament after Chelsea Green pins Becky Lynch following an Un-Pretty-Her only for Liv Morgan to pin Chelsea with a jackknife pin.

We see a video package for Rey Mysterio vs. Penta for the WWE Intercontinental Championship where both men praise each other. Penta says it is an honor to face Rey and that he will not waste tonight's opportunity, while Rey says it is an honor to face Penta after seeing him become the fastest-rising luchador in recent memory.

Backstage, Penta is met by Chad Gable, who gets to the point and apologizes for what he did for the last two years as El Grande Americano, and says that it all started because he lost to Penta in Penta's debut match. He says he did not take the loss like a man; he took it like a coward, and his actions showed that. Gable apologizes to Penta, who accepts the apology and says that while he loves lucha libre, he recognizes when somebody is in the wrong. He then tells Gable that if he wants to do right by lucha libre, then there is somebody that he needs to talk to.

Backstage, Seth "Freakin'" Rollins is met by Montez Ford, who wishes Rollins lucky tonight. Rollins thanks Montez for that and for last week, then The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) and Jacob Fatu show up. Jey tells Rollins to be careful of how he speaks about the family, then says that he is in the King of the Ring Tournament and that he is winning and taking the Undisputed WWE Championship from "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Rollins says he is talking about Roman Reigns, not the family, but he understands how the family does business and while he is not mad, he is just disappointed, saying that he thought The Usos were better than running business for Roman. Jey sics Jacob Fatu on Rollins, but Jacob states briefly at Rollins and walks away.

Backstage, Bayley meets with Lyra Valkyria and says that tonight is about Lyra getting back what is hers, and she tells Lyra to do whatever it takes.

Sol Ruca retains the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship against Lyra Valkyria.

Backstage, The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) confront Jacob Fatu for not dealing with Seth "Freakin'" Rollins. Jacob says that he acknowledges Roman Reigns, not The Usos, then tells them that they need to worry about LA Knight, as he keeps talking about the family and is probably doing it right now while the two of them are doing nothing.

LA Knight heads to the ring. After missing catching the microphone the first time, he has the timekeeper again, and the second time around, he catches it flawlessly as it arcs downwards. Knight says that he will be in the first round of the King of the Ring Tournament on Friday, and while he would say that he would win on Friday night, win the tournament and face Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship, he knows that Roman's empire is on the verge on crumbling and that he is trying to keep everyone in "the Bloodline vortex," and that somebody is going to interfere on Roman's behalf. He also says that he does not take orders from Roman Reigns and that he does not fall in life to a tribal chief, for in this neighborhood, he is the chief. Knight says that when he faces Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship, every member of Roman's family is going to ensure Roman stays champion after General Manager Adam Pearce puts his rubber stamp on the match. He says that there is a stark market difference in the way that Pearce spoke to him and the way Pearce spoke to Roman, then says Pearce has his favorites and he is not one of them while he and the fans chose himself, and that he does things his own way. Knight says he does not know how to stop or quit, and says he cannot stop being himself or being "the undeniable kevorka," and wishes everyone luck, including "Main Event" Jey Uso, who he wishes so much luck that he can win the tournament on his own without having anybody at ringside. Jey Uso heads to the ring and says that when the family calls for him, he makes the call. He tells LA Knight to stop taking about the family, then says he will show Knight who he is in the King of the Ring Tournament. Jey leaves the ring, and Knight says that he respects Jey's passion and protectiveness over his family, as that is how a good man should be, then wishes him luck on Friday before saying "Screw your family." Jimmy has to run out and hold Jey back before Jey gets back in the ring.

Backstage, Chad Gable meets Rey Mysterio as Rey talks to Dragon Lee. Dragon Lee says things are good between him and Gable, as Gable knows what the mask means and what lucha libre means. Rey says they have heard what Gable had to say to Penta and Rey Fenix, as he knows why Gable started it all and admits he wanted to knock his head off his shoulders. Rey then says that his match with El Grande Americano II was "true lucha libre" before accepting Gable's apology. Gable thanks both Rey and Dragon Lee, and Rey says that while he is not one to judge, he wants Gable to look back a little further, as there are things that he did and said that he regretted way before he put the mask on.

Penta retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Rey Mysterio. After the match, both men are attacked by Rusev and "All Ego" Ethan Page, then Dragon Lee runs into the ring to make the save only to be tripped up and sent into the timekeeper's area by Ethan. Ethan then has Rusev try to rip Rey's mask off, which Rusev succeeds at doing. As Penta protects Rey, Chad Gable runs into the ring and takes down both Ethan and Rusev, and Rusev has to save Ethan from an ankle lock by pulling him out of the ring. Gable then takes Rey Mysterio's mask and hands it to Penta, who re-masks Rey.

We hear from Raquel Rodriguez, who says that a lot of smaller, undeserving women entered the Queen of the Ring Tournament and that she proved that truth by winning in the first round. She hopes to blast through everything in her way, including Iyo Sky. She says she has Iyo's number and that she was victorious in their last match, and next week will be no different when she drags Iyo Sky back down to earth and win Queen of the Ring before taking the WWE Women's Championship from Rhea Ripley. She says Iyo Sky should get a ticket to Minneapolis, Minnesota so that Rhea has a shoulder to cry on when The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) takes over everything.

We hear from Iyo Sky, who says that Asuka entrusted her with the women's division, and that there is nothing she takes more seriously than protecting the honor and responsibility bestowed on her by her senpai. She says that Raquel Rodriguez may be a force to be reckoned with, but she has no honor and no heart. She says that everything Raquel does protects Liv Morgan's ego, and that she will unburden her of that responibility when she ends her run in the Queen of the Ring Tournament and puts The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) in her place on the way to becoming a world champion.

Backstage, Roxanne Perez talks with Liv Morgan, saying that she was thinking about herself last week when she should have been thinking of the rest of The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio), and wants either Liv or Raquel Rodriguez to win the Queen of the Ring Tournament, preferably against each other so that they cannot lose. Dominik and McDonagh shows up and admit their plan against Oba Femi did not work, but Liv says they need to do things differently before discussing a new plan with Dominik.

Je'Von Evans beats Ricky Saints, Seth "Freakin" Rollins and Talla Tonga to advance in the King of the Ring Tournament. During the match, Austin Theory shows up and pulls the referee out of the ring as he pins Ricky Saints following The Stomp, but he is soon attacked by Montez Ford and brawls with him throught he crowd. As this goes on, Bron Breakker gets in the ring and lays Rollins out with a Spear. Ricky Saints goes for a pinfall attempt on Rollins, but Je'Von Evans rushes into the ring and hits Saints with the OG Cutter to pin him and advance.

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 June 5, 2026

An angry Gunther shows up from out of the crowd and destroys the Italian comentary table before clearing the English commentary table, then takes a microphone. He says that the show will not start until he gets justice for what happened at Clash in Italy, as he lost despite his foot being under the bottom rope. He also says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes cheated and did not beat him. As he looks into the camera and addresses Cody, Cody shows up and slowly makes his way to the ring as he always does before addressing Gunther. Cody says that Gunther is right in his claim, then says that Gunther is a twenty-year pro and is being "big mad" about how he is handling it. He then says they can have their rematch right here tonight. Suddenly, Sami Zayn shows up and greets his "ride or die fans" for giving him the respect he has been looking for. He says he wanted Cody and Gunther to handle their own business, then says he knows where Gunther is coming from. He then says that both men did him wrong and neither man seems to note that, and when Gunther tells Sami to get out of his ring so they can handle World Championship business, Sami says he might not have held a world title, yet he knows about beating Gunther for championships. Cody wants to know what side Sami is on right now, and Sami says that Cody is always blowing him off and looking towards the next threat when he should realize that the biggest threat might be him. Cody says "Is that so?" Sami tells Cody that he said he would beat Gunther and teach him a lesson, then says he beat Gunther and wants to know when Cody will teach that lesson. Gunther goes on the attack, and this time, Sami fights Gunther when he goes for a sleeper on Cody. Cody hits Sami with a tope suicida meant for Gunther, and when Cody offers to help Sami up, Sami gets up and walks away.

The Miz finds out on the phone that Kit Wilson is not here due to his four emotional support cats, then The Miz lets Kit Wilson what he is doing to foil Danhausen's plans. Danhausen shows up, and The Miz starts messing with stuff until he shocks himself. Danhausen then finds some food on the floor and eats it.

Backstage, Gunther confronts General Manager Nick Aldis. He says that instead of being treated like a gift, he is treated like he does not belong. Aldis insists Gunther has always been treated with respect, but Gunther demands Aldis fix everything or else he will be drowning in so many lawsuits his grandchildren will need a lawyer.

We are introduced to the Italian commentary team of Michele Posa and Luca Franchini.

Raquel Rodriguez beats Kiana James, Jacy Jayne and Bayley to advance in the Queen of the Ring Tournament after Jacy yanks Kiana's feet off the middle rope, costing her the win, and Kiana blames Giulia for it. After the match, Kiana rebukes and shoves Giulia away when Giulia tries to help her up, and continues to blame Giulia for the loss before stating it is over. Giulia responds by hitting her with a Lou Thesz press and punching her, then knocking her out of the ring.

Backstage, Sami Zayn smacks another water bottle, then finds Johnny Gargano planking on a road crate and tells him about what happened tonight. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and tells Sami Zayn to stay out of "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes' and Gunther's business, but Sami says they made their business his business, but Aldis tells Sami he made it worse. Aldis then says he has no time for Sami, and Sami asks who is so important that Aldis cannot give him a minute. Chad Gable shows up, mius the El Grande Americano mask, and stares Sami down before heading into Aldis' office.

Talla Tonga beats Royce Keys after Solo Sikoa distracts the referee and Tama Tonga distracts Royce Keys. After the match, Tama and Talla continue to go on the attack on Royce Keys. R-Truth runs into the ring, but he also gets attacked. Damian Priest shows up and pulls R-Truth out of the ring. With Priest and R-Truth gone, Tama Tonga hits Royce Keys with Cutthroat.

Backstage, Raquel Rodriguez shows up as The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) talk amongst each other. They celebrate Raquel's win, then Dominik says he will win the match so that The Judgment Day will win all the gold.

We hear from Finn Balor, who says that he has proven himself time and time again in this business, and that in any night, any situation and any match, he will shine every time an opportunity falls his way. He says that he can stand toe-to-toe with the best, but he wants it all. Finn Balor is part of the SmackDown roster now, and he will make his debut in the King of the Ring Tournament next week.

Backstage, Damian Priest wants R-Truth to stop helping Royce Keys, as he doesn't know what is going on between Royce Keys and the MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga). The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) shows up with the AAA World Tag Team Championships, and Erik tells R-Truth that when he is ready, they want to defend their titles against the WWE Tag Team Champions. Ivar says they are ready, but nobody is ready for war. R-Truth says he has never met either of them a day in his life and leaves.

Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea says she has put Jade Cargill behind her, and while she did not come out completely unscathed due to her banged-up knee and Jade Cargill came in with a gameplan to take her out, Cargill failed to take her out, and she is still champion. She also says she had a nice, unexpected friend help her with the numbers game, and Charlotte Flair shows up and admits that while Rhea did not asks for her help, she had her back because she respects her and had fun teaming with her. Charlotte then says that Queen of the Ring is happening for the next few weeks and that she is a competitor at heart as well as a fourteen-time champion, and that she will be standing in front of Rhea at SummerSlam, because Rhea has what she wants. Tiffany Stratton shows up, and after refusing to apologize to Charlotte, Tiffany admits that while she looks good with the Women's United States title, she wants the WWE Women's Championship. Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab show up, and Cargill says that Tiffany, Rhea and Charlotte look stupid together before stating that Charlotte made herself next in line for what she pulled, and tells Tiffany to stay out of her business. Cargill then tells Rhea she is coming for what is hers, and she, Michin and B-Fab head to the ring before General Manager Nick Aldis shows up. After Aldis says that Rhea is not cleared to compete, Charlotte admits that she and Tiffany do not like each other, but challenges Cargill and company to a tag match. Aldis makes the match official, and the match takes place next.

Jade Cargill and "Michin" Mia Yim beat Charlotte Flair and Tiffany Stratton.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) Jacy is not in the mood for an interview. As she says that she is on another level compared to the rest of the women's division, she spies Brie Bella and Paige in a photoshoot. As Brie and Paige mention Jacy's loss tonight, Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid jump Brie and Paige.

Backstage, R-Truth meets with Royce Keys. Royce tells R-Truth he appreciates what R-Truth has done for him, and R-Truth says he wants to return the favor. Royce acknowledges that he and Damian Priest cannot get along, however, and says that this is something R-Truth will have to handle.

Ricky Saints beats Carmelo Hayes after grabbing the tights on a roll-up.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Trick Williams. Trick says he is only concerned with himself, but he is entertained with people fighting over what he has. He hopes to win the King of the Ring Tournament, be on the same list with some greats, and win a world championship to become a double champion again. Bron Breakker then shows up and briefly stares down Trick Williams.

Backstage, Tiffany Stratton is met by Chelsea Green, who insists on wanting to team with Tiffany. Chelsea fails to figure it out that Tiffany wants nothing to do with her, even as Chelsea wants Tiffany in her corner for her match.

We hear from Blake Monroe. Blake is impressed by Tiffany Stratton and her trise to the top, and says that looking at her is like looking in a mirror. She calls a match with her a box-office event, but Tiffany is not used to getting her hands dirty, and Tiffy Time will soon run on "Monroe minutes." Blake Monroe is coming soon to SmackDown.

Lash Legend beats Chelsea Green.

Backstage, Royce Keys is met by Solo Sikoa. Royce tells Solo to watch what he says, and Solo asks Royce why he is being so difficult. Solo says that Roman Reigns made Jacob Fatu bow down like a dog and that Damian Priest wants nothing to do with him, and he is the only family Royce has. Royce asks if he really busted his ass for this, but Solo reminds him that he is the one who made the call to bring him to WWE just like he brought Jacob, Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga to WWE. Solo says that they need to get ready for war, and tells him to stop being so difficult or else he will make things difficult.

Backstage, Axiom congratulates Rey Fenix on winning the AAA Cruiserweight Champion. As Fenix tells Nathan Frazer that he has a title shot if he wants it, Chad Gable meets with Fenix and says they had a great match, but he had it under false pretenses as El Grande Americano. He says that he was made a mockery of lucha libre when he was should have been taking on a responsibility, and asks Fenix for forgiveness. Fenix says that Gable has learned a lot and has suffered from losing his match, and while he forgives Gable, he reminds him that he is not the only person he offended.

"Dirty" Dominik Mysterio beats Damian Priest, Trick Williams and Bron Breakker to advance in the King of the Ring Tournament and face Oba Femi in the semi-finals after JD McDonagh distracts Damian Priest and Liv Morgan hits Priest with a low blow following Bron Breakker clotheslining Damina Priest through the announce 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 May 29, 2026

We are introduced to Alvaro Carrera and Miguel Perez of the Spanish-language announce team.

Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab head to the ring to start tonight's show. Cargill says that everyone acts like she has something to prove, then says she does not have to ask for permission and that she is one of one. She says that she can do whatever she wants, and B-Fab says that Cargill will beat Rhea because she is the most dominant. She reminds Cargill that when it comes to being in the ring, she has beaten Cargill at WrestleMania and she will beat her again at Clash at Italy. Rhea says that Cargill can continue to throw her so-called dominance around, because she will be looking up at the true champon. Cargill asks Rhea if she hears how stupid she sounds and says the women's division does not revolve around her, and that Michin and B-Fab want to be around her while nobody wants to be around Rhea. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up, and while Charlotte admits she admires what Cargill has done, she should not confuse her attitude with accomplishment. Alexa says Cargill has the ego of a legend, but the resumé of a rookie. Cargill says that she will not be talked down upon by Charlotte's "rag doll," and Alexa Bliss tells Cargill that she has embarrassed women bigger than her on the mic and tells her not to embarrass her before her career even gets started. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and makes Jade Cargill vs. Alexa Bliss official and for right now.

Jade Cargill beats Alexa Bliss despite Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair brawling with "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab to the back, due to Cargill getting the knees up to block Twisted Bliss. After the match, Cargill pulls a metal folding chair out from underneath the ring and hits a second Jaded on the chair. Rhea and Charlotte rush back to the ring and chase Cargill out.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes when Sami Zayn shows up. Sami asks Cody if he has nothing to say to him. Cody says he has nothing, but Sami says he should, and he should start by apologizing, as he did not ask to fight his friend; Cody did. He says he had his back and tried to help him, but he stabbed him in the back with the Cross Rhodes. Cody says Sami walked away when Gunther choked him out. Sami says he wanted to help Cody because of how he is wired, and it took everything not to. He says that he left Cody there so that he could learn a lesson. Cody says that when he is done with Gunther tonight, he can teach him a lesson, too.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis wants Danhausen to appear in front of the fans. After Aldis tells Danhausen to improvise, The Miz shows up does not to wrestle Axiom due to Kit Wilson not being here tonight due to customs' liquid limit from the amount of moisturizer that he brought with him overseas. Aldis thinks The Miz need Kit Wilson's help, but The Miz denies this. Aldis tells him to prove this as Danhausen gathers materials in the background, then the lights dim above Aldis after Miz leaves.

Axiom beats The Miz after the flashing lights from Danhausen's new experiments distract The Miz as he is at the top turnbuckle, allowing Axiom to hit an avalanche Spanish Fly followed by the Golden Ratio for the win.

Backstage, R-Truth tells Damian Priest that he is still not medically cleared. He also tells Damian Priest that he has a tag team partner for tonight against The MFTs (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga), who happens to be Royce Keys. Damian Priest does not want to team with him, let alone trust him, and Royce says that Priest wants to take on the world alone, and R-Truth has to verbally manipulate them into teaming by questioning their courage.

Backstage, Sami Zayn talks with Johnny Gargano about what just happened with him and Cody, with Candice LeRae caught in the middle. Matt Cardona shows up and says that things may not be going his way either, and this leads Sami to challenge Cardona to a match. Cardona accepts.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair leaves the trainer's room and runs into Rhea Ripley. Charlotte says that Alexa is in a lot of pain and pissed off and so is she. Rhea says she will take care of Jade Cargill, and Charlotte says that if Rhea does not, she will.

The MFTs (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga) beat Damian Priest and Royce Keys. During the match, R-Truth shows up and confronts Solo Sikoa for hitting Damian Priest with a Samoan Spike behind the referee's back only to be hit in the throat by Solo. When Royce Keys confronts Solo, Tama Tonga hits Keys from the top rope. Talla then choke slams Priest in the ring for the pin and the win.

Backstage, The Miz threatens to sue General Manager Nick Aldis for unsafe working conditions. Aldis agrees with The Miz, and says he is about to handle the electrical problems. The Miz confronts Danhausen only to be blasted with a fire extinguisher, and Danhausen refuses to let Aldis into the room.

The Pique Group is the recipient of the Twisted Tea Hard Ice Tea Seat Upgrade.

Backstage, Chelsea Green meets with Tiffany Stratton, who tells her "It's not that deep" as Chelsea tries to make more of an alliance between them. Chelsea awkwardly says she will see Tiffany after the match and wishes her luck, then Tiffany leaves.

Sami Zayn beats Matt Cardona.

We see a vignette for The King of the Ring and Queen of the Ring Tournaments.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis speaks with Gunther, saying he has granted him and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes television time to say what they need to say and to keep it civil. Gunther is offended at first, but promises to keep it civil.

Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring. Lil Yachty introduces himself as the man with the money and the connections that makes it happen, and says that for the first time ever, "we are experiencing the Trick Williams campaign." Trick says he has been holding SmackDown down for quite some time, and that for the past couple weeks, he has taken out The Miz and Carmelo Hayes, and that nobody has proven themselves the future of the business better than him. Trick then declares himself for the King of the Ring Tournament, then Carmelo Hayes shows up and says Trick may be king of the entrance and the microphone, but King of the Ring is "grown folks business" and Trick is too little. Carmelo says he will take care of Ricky Saints tonight, then he will face him for the United States Championship. Trick says that "'Melo is being too melodramatic" and spouting off "what if," then says that if Carmelo sprouted an inch for every excuse he made, he could see Trick face-to-face and realize he is better than him. Ricky Saints shows up and says nobody wants to see "that telenovela stuff" right now and addresses last week, stating that he is two steps ahead and that after he deals with Carmelo, he will go after Trick and the United States Championship. Trick says that Ricky Saints lies and poses and looks like a bobblehead, then tells Saints to show up and tells Saints and Carmelo to handle things between them before facing him for the title. When Saints mouths off at Trick, Trick slaps him.

Carmelo Hayes vs. Ricky Saints ends in a double count-out. After the match, Saints attacks Carmelo from behind, but Carmelo soon sends him packing with a First 48.

Backstage, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) run into Tiffany Stratton and say that Tiffany made a wise decision not to be in Chelsea Green's corner, then state that after Nia is done with Chelsea, Tiffany will be next.

We hear from Blake Monroe, who writes a diary entry about the SmackDown women's locker room, then says not to get too comfortable because she is coming soon to SmackDown.

Chelsea Green beats Nia Jax after Tiffany Stratton shows up as Nia is about to hit the A-Nia-Lator and nails Nia with the Women's United States Championship behind the referee's back.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Brie Bella and Paige. Brie says the target has gotten bigger, but they have been successfully defending the women's tag titles. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up, and Jacy Jayne asks why Cathy is wasting her time before declaring for the Queen of the Ring Tournament. Fallon tells Brie Bella and Paige to hold on to their titles, while Lainey says they will be the next champions. Jacy then says that eventually, the women's division will be under their influence.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Before he can say much, however, he is joined in the ring by Gunther. Gunther tells Cody that for some reason, SmackDown has to be about him, and if it is not, he has to make it about him. He calls Cody a product of the culture he grew up in where egotism, narcissism and nepotism is rewarded. He also calls Cody "a perfect example of the crumbling concept of the American dream," then says that he has earned his position while everything was one phone call away for Cody. Gunther says that makes Cody "a little, entitled brat," and admits that while they have the same profession, they are nothing alike. He says that Cody has to scratch that itch for approval, but for him, it is unnecessary, and that protecting the sport from people like Cody is all that matters. Gunther says that Cody only cares about himself and is his own biggest fan, and instead of a champion, Cody is "a mark for [himself]." Cody says Gunther is a liar, stating that Gunther has implied does not want the attention or even the feeling of being the Undisputed WWE Champion and knows that Gunther wants that attention; otherwise, he would talk to a 330 lb. version of himself at an indie show. He says that Cody Rhodes tried to intimidate him from being champion, and while he did not succeed, he did not tell him that being is champion is addictive. Cody says that Gunther will get close to that attention only to find out he is just not that good. After Cody says that he is easy to find and hard to beat, both men have a staredown, Gunther stops Cody as he leaves, promising that he will choke Cody out, drop him like a wet towel, and take the Undisputed WWE Championship with him.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 8, 2026

In memory of Ted Turner, 1938 - 2026.

Jacob Fatu heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Jacob says that tomorrow night, he is not fighting Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship; he is taking the World Heavyweight Championship. He says that ever since they were young, everyone saw Roman as the future while seeing nothing in him, and now those same people want to talk nice to him. He says that history repeats himself, but everyone tagging in with him really wants to protect Roman. Jacob says that Roman was born with opportunity while he was born with doubt, then The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) make their way to the ring. Jimmy says they are not here to change Jacob's mind, as part of him is still proud of him while the other part is watching out for him, and wants to know if he has thought about what would happen if he lost to Roman. Jey says Jacob has not thought about that because he never thinks like that, and tells Jacob "Tribal Chief is gonna beat that ass" and break Jacob down emotionally and physically in front of his family. Jimmy says he knows Jacob's family will be in the front row, and if Jacob loses, they will have to acknowledge Roman Reigns as Tribal Chief. Jacob says that he is not losing and that he cannot lose, then says that Jay wants to school him on losing to Roman when he has never beaten Roman. He also tells Jimmy that there will be no acknowledging for his family, because the match is all about his family, who will see him become the new World Heavyweight Champion. Jacob says he is willing to put it all on the line, and asks if Roman is willing to do the same. He also tells The Usos that if they interfere in tomorrow night's, he will "burn the whole goddamn family tree down."

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews General Manager Nick Aldis, who says that Gunther's recent actions were completely unacceptable. All of a sudden, Ricky Saints says everyone should be talking about him and his debut, then says he has gone from facing "QB1" to "QB4." Matt Cardona says he is not here to pass the torch to guys like him, and that he will see him in the ring tonight.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis wishes Jacob Fatu well on his way out of the building, then Jacob Fatu runs into Royce Keys, who says that failure was never an option for Jacob Fatu and tells Jacob to "werewolf up" and beat Roman Reigns. Afterwards, Royce Keys runs into Solo Sikoa, and tells him to pick his words carefully. Solo says that last week was just the wrong place at the wrong time, then tells Royce Keys that there is room in his family for him and that he needs an answer soon, and time is running out.

We hear from Chelsea Green, who wishes Tiffany Stratton luck on her first title defense via a video on X (formerly Twitter).

Tiffany Stratton retains the WWE Women's United States Championship against Kiana James after Giulia inadvertently costs Kiana the victory while distracting the referee.

Sami Zayn is at the funeral for The Gingerbread Man. General Manager Nick Aldis says everyone just needs closure, then R-Truth shows up with a rose and says "I'm sorry for your loss" while trying to console Sami, much to Sami's chagrin.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss. Rhea says Fatal Influence have made an impression, but chose the wrong people to attack, and she cannot wait to get her hands on them. Charlotte says they can all get their hands on Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid), and Alexa has to get between them as things get tense and tell them that they need to trust each other.

Backstage, R-Truth meets on Damian Priest, who is more focused on Talla Tonga than the funeral for the Gingerbread Man. Priest asks R-Truth to stay backstage, as Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga will get to R-Truth to get to him. He asks R-Truth to trust him, as he knows how to handle them alone.

Talla Tonga beats Damian Priest despite R-Truth and Damian Priest being able to fend off both Tama Tonga and Solo Sikoa. After the match, The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) are about to attack Damian Priest when Royce Keys shows up, causing them to retreat.

Backstage, Danhausen takes sign-ups for his tag team partner at Backlash when The Miz and Kit Wilson show up and notice that Danhausen has no tag team partner. Kit Wilson says that the only person toxic enough to team with Danhausen is Danhausen, who likes what he sees in Kit Wilson's mirror.

We see footage of Gingerbread Man in the middle of great moments in WWE history.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with Paul Heyman regarding a contract when Gunther shows up. Aldis chides Gunther for his recent behavior even though he is happy to have him on SmackDown, then "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring, much to Gunther's chagrin. Gunther walks out angrily, and Heyman tells Aldis that he will handle this. Cody says that Gunther has made it clear that he is next in line, and would like it if Gunther would come out to the ring and do just that. Heyman shows up with a contract for a Gunther-Cody match, and Cody asks if Heyman is now Gunther's advocate. Cody then says the contract is not necessary and that they can just do this right now, but Heyman says he owes Gunther a favor and that this match is the favor he owes him. Heyman also admits that he is a big fan of Cody, and just wants him to know that he needs a contract when an undisputed heavyweight championship is at stake, and tells him that the contract for the match will be for Clash in Italy. Heyman hands Cody the contract, then tells Cody that if he wants Gunther's name on the contract, then he will have to get it himself. Cody notes that CM Punk, Roman Reigns and Brock Lensar are now gone and that Heyman is running out of options. Heyman says that he is not running out of options as he leaves, and that sooner or later, they all need the wiseman. All of a sudden, Gunther comes out of the crowd, and Cody fights back only to be put in a sleeper hold. Cody slings Gunther out of the ring and keeps him out, then says he does not sweat Gunther and dares him to get the high ground.

We see The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) backstage. Tama Tonga says that Royce Keys is a problem that needs to be dealt with, but Solo Sikoa says he sees Royce as more of a solution than a problem and a perfect fit for the family. Tama says Royce embarrassed them, which does not sit right with him, and that he will handle business and show what he is all about. Talla Tonga is about to follow Tama, but Solo says that if Tama wants to go out on his own, then he will find out on his own.

Ricky Saints beats Matt Cardona.

At the Gingerbread Man's funeral, Sami Zayn is talking to someone about how this is all a big joke. The person he is talking to is a planking Johnny Gargano, and Sami wants to know if "Johnny Wrestling" is still in there. Johnny barely rises. As Candice LeRae checks on Gargano, Sami notices Rey Fenix, but Rey Fenix says this is not the time or place as Sami gets mad at Fenix being a funeral for something that was all one big shot at him.

Backstage, a ladder falls behind Brie Bella and Paige, then Danhausen streaks by, plucking a hair from Brie's head when Brie and Paige turn around.

We see another vignette for Blake Monroe as Blake Monroe picks a dress. Blake Monroe is coming soon to SmackDown.

Brie Bella and Paige head to the ring. Brie says there are a lot of teams in WWE saying they have wait to takes to beat them and become champions, but it is not so easy to beat them, and the results will always be the same. Paige says that this is not a nostalgia tour and that she and Brie are at the best they have ever been, and if The Judgment Day (Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez) want to step up, then they should step up, for they are the champions and this is their house. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up, and Jacy Jayne says that Brie and Paige are in over their heads and that The Judgment Day are not the ones to worry about, especially after they dropped them and left them laying in the middle of the ring two weeks ago. Fallon Henley says that Fatal Influence is taking over SmackDown, and that part of the takeover includes the women's tag team titles. Lainey Reid says there is plenty of gold to go around, and that Jacy will soon be WWE Women's Champion. Jacy then says they have business to take care, and tells Brie and Paige to get out of the ring to see how a real team gets it done. Suddenly, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up. Nia says that Fatal Influence cannot just skip the line, and Lash Legend says that this is not NXT and that Fatal Influence will not get in the way of them getting the women's tag team titles back. Nia says Fatal Influence look like "discount mean girls," then Lash tells Fatal Influence to get to the back of the line before she and Nia lay out Brie and Paige. Rhea Ripley then heads to the ring for the next match - and stares down Lash Legend - on The Irresistible Forces' way out.

We see more footage of The Gingerbread Man at even more iconic moments in WWE history.

Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) beat Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss in a six-woman tag match after Jade Cargill shows up and yanks Rhea Ripley off the ring apron, allowing Jacy to hit Alexa with the Rolling Encore for the win. After the match, Fatal Influence back away from Jade Cargill as they leave the ring, and Cargill mockingly tells Alexa Bliss to get up. As Charlotte Flair gets in the ring, she is attacked by "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Rhea Ripley gets in the ring and lays out Michin and B-Fab, but she is taken out with a pump kick by Cargill. B-Fab then puts Alexa in a full nelson slam, and Charlotte tries to fight back only to fare no better.

Backstage, Royce Keys is met by The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso). They know that Royce has been talking to Jacob Fatu, and Jey tells Royce to stay in his lane or else he might catch Roman Reigns' eye.

We see even more footage of The Gingerbread Man at even more iconic WWE moments.

Royce Keys beas Tama Tonga.

Backstage, Danhausen performs a science experiment where he decides to make a clone with Brie Bella's hair and one of his own teeth with a cloning machine. It is not going very well.

Backstage, Tama Tonga is met by Shinsuke Nakamura, who says that not even his own brother will help him. Talla Tonga shows up and tells Nakamura to stay away from Tama, or else they will have problems. Nakamura says something in Japanese, then walks away.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis welcomes Trick Williams to the arena and to the funeral for the Gingerbread Man, saying that the rest of the broadcast is all for him. The ring is then prepared for The Gingerbread Man's funeral.

Trick Williams heads to the ring for The Gingerbread Man's funeral. Trick eulogizes The Gingerbread Man in song, then we see an AI-generated montage of The Gingerbread Man's life. During the moment of silence, however, Sami Zayn interrupts, calling the funeral a waste of SmackDown TV time and calling it a joke targeting him. He also criticizes how expensive the funeral is before getting in the ring while Trick takes his fur coat off, then says he would not do something like this because he has too much respect for himself, the fans and the show. Sami Zayn says he is a working class hero and that he represents his "ride or die" fans until the end, and says he has been all over the card against people who thought they would knock him off his perch and has been in the game for twenty years, then gives credit where credit is due to Trick for getting in his head. Sami then tells Trick that he played himself and that he will make a joke out of him, then tells Trick to enjoy his night before he sees him at Backlash. Sami turns to leave, then hits a cheap shot. All of a sudden, The Gingerbread Man rises from the dead and unmasks to reveal that he is Lil Yachty, who hits Sami Zayn in the back with a candy cane. Trick then hits the Trick Shot on Sami 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 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!

Generation NXT - NXT recap for April 28, 2026

In footage from earlier today, General Manager Robert Stone meets with Shawn Michaels and Matt Bloom regarding fresh faces from Evolve and LFG to replace some call-ups. Shawn says that Stone can keep putting faces on index cards and making phone calls, or he can "throw a stick of dynamite in the locker room and see who runs out."

Myles Borne retains the NXT North American Championship against Saquon Shugars after Saquon has to stop Dion Lennox from hitting Borne with a chair, causing Borne to shove Saquon into Lennox and the ring steps, allowing Borne to hit Borne Again to win and retain. After the match, Tristan Angels shows up and congratulates Borne on the win, then states that everyone will be seeing more of him on NXT. All of a sudden, Borne is attacked from behind by Kam Hendrix.

Backstage, Kendal Grey and Wren Sinclair are talking about the new talents showing up when Kelani Jordan shows up saying she is the one to beat despite being knocked out by Lola Vice. She also warns Sinclair that Kendal will turn on her. Sinclair challenges Kelani to a match, and Kelani accepts, saying she does not want Sinclair's title and just wants to embarrass her.

Tony D'Angelo heads to the ring. D'Angelo says that the more NXT changes, the more it stays the same, and that the only constant is that competitors come and go. He then says that he has become the constant, and that there is no man tough enough to kick him off the mountain. He also says that includes whoever sent him that box last week. D'Angelo says that while all sorts of competitors are coming for him, he is wondering about the box, knowing it is a warning. The lights go out, then all of a sudden, former New Japan Pro Wrestling wrestler EVIL shows up. EVIL heads to the ring, and hands D'Angelo a black fabric with the same kanji that was on the box. EVIL then leaves the ring. As EVIL leaves, D'Angelo is suddenly attacked from behind by Tavion Heights, who says that he is tired of waiting and is taking what he wants. As this goes on, Will Kroos gets in the ring and hits a moonsault on D'Angelo.

Tatum Paxley and Shiloh Hill dig a grave for Blake Monroe, and hope that her soul finds peace. Tatum then gets worried about having to always be in survival mode as champion, but Shiloh gets it, knowing Tatum is attached to objects and that the Women's United States Championship is a part of her now. Tatum says she will figure things out, then mentions Shiloh's upcoming match with Ricky Saints. Shiloh says he has planned the match out, and Tatum says that Shiloh will kill it in that match. As Shiloh leaves, Tatum lies down next to the grave dug up for Blake Monroe.

Before the next match, Lexis King says that there is no such thing as a slow news day as the fastest man alive. Lexis says he was going to cheer his teammates on, but unfortunately, EK Propser will have to prosper on his own, as Dorian Van Dux has suffered "a little accident." We see footage of Birthright attacking Dorian Van Dux with a metal folding chair while Arianna Grace laughs at the phone. EK Prosper runs into the ring only to get beaten down, but a now-recovered "Super" Sean Legacy rushes into the ring and helps EK Prosper clean house.

EK Prosper and "Super" Sean Legacy beat Birthright (Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo and Uriah Connors). After the match, the rest of Birthright helps Stacks and Uriah jump Prosperr and Legacy. All of a sudden, Tate Wilder, fresh out of Evolve, shows up and helps Prosperr and Legacy clean house.

Backstage, Thea Hail and Jaida Parker are wondering who else will show up when Kali Armstrong, saying Jaida is scared of a little competition before stating that she will be a difference maker. The women's locker room have to keep Kali and Jaida from going at it.

Shawn Michaels announces that NXT premium live events will become exclusive to The CW starting this summer in the United States.

Backstage, General Manager Robert Stone welcomes Tate Wilder to NXT, then Lola Vice says that if Izzi Dame wants to play games, then she will call her out. Lola Vice then heads to the ring. Lola Vice says that Izzi Dame only thought she had her moment, then says she feels sorry for Izzi because she cannot do anything on her own, and when she does, she is getting knocked out. She calls Izzi out so she can show her what she is about to do her, then reiterates that she will be a fighting champion before Shawn Spears appears on the TitanTron, saying that Lola did not think things through. He tells Lola to stay one step ahead like The Culling (Shawn Spears, Izzi Dame, Niko Vance) if she wants to keep her title, then Izzi Dame and Niko Vance suddenly show up behind Lola. All of a sudden, Mr. Iguana shows up from underneath the ring and helps Lola outsmart Izzi and Niko in a quick brawl.

Backstage, Dion Lennox and Saquon Shugars argue over what happened in Saquon's match. Cutler James and Osiris Griffin tell them to shut up and stop dropping the bawl, then Cutler says that he and Osiris will get the tag team titles back.

Lizzy Rain beats Nikkita Lyons in her NXT debut.

Backstage, Myles Borne runs into Tavion Heights. Heights says that he is kicking doors down, and when Borne says that is not him, Heights is surprised, but Borne says he gets it, as it is every man for himself. Heights says Borne can add him as one of those men on the way out, then Borne meets Keanu Carver, who says that the sharks are swimming and that Borne is looking at "the great white."

The Vanity Project (Brad Baylor, "The Smoke Show" Ricky Smokes, Jackson Drake) meets backstage. They know that NXT is changing and that it is time for Jackson Drake to step up, and Jackson Drake celebrates having a new girlfriend before stating that he is on top of the world and can take on anything. Jasper Troy shows up and says that Drake should be concentrating on championship gold instead of dating apps before challenging him to a match next week.

Kelani Jordan beats Wren Sinclair when Sinclair's knee, which Sinclair tweaks on a drop kick to the outside during the match, gives out when Sinclair goes for the Final Wrench.

We hear from Zaria. We see a burnt, flaming surfboard with "Sol Ruca" on it. Zaria says Sol Ruca was a beauty from a distance, but up close, she was drowning her until she opened her eyes and remembered who she was as we see an image of Sol Ruca disintegrate. Zaria says she does not make compromises, and now that Sol Ruca is gone, she will scorch everyone and everything in her way. (The segment comes under fire afterwards for being made with AI.)

Shiloh Hill beats Ricky Saints after Saints brings a metal folding chair into the ring only for Shiloh to knock the chair out of his hands, sends Saints into the chair with a drop toe hold, then hit Whisper of the Beast to get the pin and the win. (With Ricky Saints heading to SmackDown on Friday, this is Saints' last match in NXT before the call-up is official.)

Backstage, Tony D'Angelo meets with Shawn Michaels, saying that the sharks are circling and got one on him tonight, but he loves the chaos. Shawn says D'Angelo is the champion, and now it is time to prove it.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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