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

Raw General Manager Adam Pearce and SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis are in the ring for Aldis' match with Gunther at SummerSlam to start tonight's show. Aldis is already in the ring, and Gunther is introduced. Pearce dictates that Aldis cannot compete as a WWE Superstar while General Manager, and that when he signs the contract, he relinquishes his position as SmackDown General Manager to Pearce. There is also a hold harmless agreement, which means that Aldis is voluntarily returning to action and that WWE is not responsible for what happens when the bell rings in the match. Aldis says he knows what he is signing up for and knows what he is giving up, even though he never wanted any of this, saying that Gunther has found his breaking point before signing the contract. Gunther says this match will be the greatest moment of Aldis' career, and says that all of this is beneath him and that he should be preparing to become champion, but cannot because Aldis cannot do his job. He says that Aldis had an issue with him and that he chalked it up to jealousy, and says that Aldis dreamed of being a WWE Superstar and never had it happen while he walked in and got it all. Gunther says that Aldis had to be honest with himself and tell himself he was not good enough to be a WWE Superstar, then says he will give him that dream, sign the contract, which he does, and make him a legend. He says that Aldis will be yet another legend like Goldberg and AJ Styles who got retired by him while looking for one more moment, and says he will end Aldis' career before it properly starts. After Gunther throws the contract at Aldis, Aldis says that Gunther keeps saying this only to get him to believe something, as Gunther thought it would never come to this, and knows Gunther wants none of this. Aldis says that Gunther has put his career in jeopardy and has put himself in a situation he cannot get out of, and at SummerSlam, Gunther will go from a career killer to a man made into a bitch by his boss. Gunther swings at Aldis, and Aldis blocks and hits back, starting a brawl. Gunther shoves Aldis into Pearce, then kicks Aldis in the groin and powerbombs him through the signing table as Pearce calls for assistance. Officials have to escort Gunther out of the ring.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley is interrupted by Sami Zayn, who says that he won the Undisputed WWE Championship at Night of Champions and that it became crystal clear as soon as he won it that he was not wanted as champion when he had to defend against Cody Rhodes. He then says that when Cody was taken out, "Corporate Poster Boy #2" CM Punk showed up and took it from him, and says that while CM Punk vs. Cody Rhodes looks good on a poster and everyone is happy, he has to ride the bench. General Manager Adam Pearce shows up, and Sami says that Aldis deserves to be in the trainer's room because Aldis screwed him, too. Sami demands that Pearce make the WWE Championship match a Triple Threat. Pearce says that he cannot do that, then tells Sami that there is a Fatal Four-Way Match tonight with Damien Priest, Royce Keys, Finn Balor, and Trick Williams, and the winner faces Sami. Sami hates the option, but Pearce says "Take it or leave it." Sami has no choice but to take it, but he wants no shenanigans or funny business.

Before the next match, Lainey Reid says it is funny how Saturday Night's Main Event was supposed to be the most important night of Fatal Influence's (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) career, yet Brie Bella and Paige will be the ones remembering it forever. Fallon says they took out two legends, which he admits could keep her up at night. Jacy Jayne says that if she had gold around her waist, Fatal Influence would be the perfect pacakge, but thanks to Brie Bella and Paige, she is not in the WWE Women's Championship ladder match. Jacy then says she has the perfect solution: taking the WWE United States Women's Championship from Tiffany Stratton. She then says that tonight, Lainey will embarrass Brie and put her out of her misery once and for all.

Brie Bella beats Lainey Reid after Paige pulls Jacy Jayne off the ring apron and Brie counters with a Sunset Flip after Lainey Reid gets caught by the referee using the ropes for leverage. After the match, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) attack Brie and Paige, but Nikki Bella - who is now medically clear following a foot injury - comes back and makes the save. Nikki says that Fatal Influence will not steal from her sisters and that they are the reason they are here. Nikki then challenges Fatal Influence to a six-woman tag match at SummerSlam.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Finn Balor. Finn says he thinks about 2016 when he thinks about SummerSlam, when he had the best and worst night of his career. It has been ten years since he started clawing back to those heights, and he is close. Gunther shows up and says Finn Balor has great plans, but he is next in line, and he will take back what is his regardless of who he has to face.

Backstage, Royce Keys is met by Solo Sikoa, who looks forward to Royce Keys having two matches at SummerSlam. Royce Keys says he is focused more on tonight and becoming #1 contender and not to worry about The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Jacob Fatu), then LA Knight shows up. He tells Royce he should always be worried about The Bloodline, but Royce says he is taking it all tonight. Solo tells both men to calm down, as they are all on the same team and The Bloodline have found an ass-whipping instead of a weakness.

Backstage, Tiffany Stratton and Chelsea Green are looking forward to SummerSlam. When Chelsea leaves, Blake Monroe shows up and says she actually likes Tiffany, saying she likes the finer things in life like her. Blake says that Tiffany would worry more about her championship than Chelsea, as the more she climbs, the more people look up at what she has.

Chelsea Green beats Kiana James in an Interim WWE Women's Championship Ladder Match qualifier.

Backstage, R-Truth catches up with Damian Priest as Priest gets ready for his match. "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes shows up, and Cody is thinking about holding the WWE Tag Team Championships with CM Punk. R-Truth leaves confusedly, then says that Cody looks forward to the Fatal 4-Way tonight after what Punk said about Priest. Priest says he has respect for Punk and Cody, but he and the boys in the back are tired of the same people being the face of SmackDown, and says that whoever is champion after SummerSlam is going to get dropped. Cody says that he likes that attitude, and wishes Priest good luck.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring, then introduces CM Punk. Cody hands Punk a microphone only to accidentally drop it, much to Punk's chagrin, and Cody says it was an accident. Punk takes one from the side of the ring, then says it is a shame that they are at this point and that he cannot trust Cody. Cody says that Punk smacking him with the strap of the WWE Championship was an accident, then says he has to beat Punk for himself. Punk says there should be no other reason and that the title should not come between them. He then tells Cody that if he has another explanation, he should explain it. Cody says that he respects Punk, but he does not like him, as he says that he was inspired by Punk's "pipe bomb" promo, but while he dropped a nuke on the business, the fans wished it was Punk. He also mentions Damian Priest's comment of everyone being tired of the same people being the face of SmackDown, then mentions that he does not sweat anyone in the greatest locker room in wresting except for Punk. Cody says he can love and respect Punk, but he does not like him, and that it is only fair to say that he has to beat him at SummerSlam. Punk asks Cody if he does not like him or the fact that he is the champ, and says he casts a shadow few people can get out of. He says that brothers fight and that this is not one-way traffic, then asks Cody if did what he learned from better before stating that it is up to the fans and the history books to decide. Punk says he was learning from Cody in 2022 and that he learned that there was a way back, then tells Cody that he is lying to himself about how he feels about him. Punk says he cannot handle the pressure of taking the WWE Championship from someone that he cares about and rising to the occasion in an athletic competition with someone who is his equal, and that he has to make everyone his enemy. He says that if everyone else was Cody's enemy, then he is his only friend, and that he will stab him in the front and break his heart at SummerSlam. Cody loosens his tie and says that the both of them have said all that needs to be said, and that their upcoming tag team matches will be an apology for beating Punk at SummerSlam. Punk says he will beat Cody at SummerSlam, and that Cody will learn that not even he can touch him. Cody stops Punk, saying he will be winning the WWE Championship for a fourth time.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Charlotte Flair. Charlotte does not regret her actions from last week and that all she thought about is that she is here and that her best friend is not, and while Jade Cargill can come after her all she wants, she will not go after Alexa Bliss. Charlotte says that if she has to go through Nia Jax to prove that point, then so be it.

Charlotte Flair beats Nia Jax in an Interim WWE Women's Championship Ladder Match qualifier by disqualification after Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab show up and cause havoc around the ring before Cargill punches Charlotte in full view of the referee.

Finn Balor beats Damian Priest, Trick Williams and Royce Keys in an Undisputed WWE Championship #1 contender's match and will be facing Sami Zayn to decide a true #1 contender at SummerSlam. During the match, Solo Sikoa shows up, and soon, so do The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso). The Usos attack Solo, but LA Knight shows up from out of the crowd to back Solo up, and their brawl eventually goes into the crowd as the match continues to go on while Sami Zayn and Candice LeRae watch from backstage. At one point, Royce Keys nearly gets the win, but he is pulled out of the pinfall attempt by Jacob Fatu, who sends Royce Keys into the ring post. After that, Finn is able to hit Priest with the Coup de Grace for the win.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for July 17, 2026

Gunther heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Gunther says he has prided himself as a professional his entire career, but since he has joined SmackDown, he has been mistreated. He chalks it up to possible jealousy from General Manager Nick Aldis, then says he should be Undisputed WWE Champion right now and everybody knows it. Gunther says that all that prevents him from being champion is Aldis himself, as he made this personal. He then states that Aldis is forcing him to team up with Sami Zayn against "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and CM Punk at Saturday Night's Main Event, then calls Sami "a bum" who is beneath him and calls being put in this position unacceptable. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce shows up and says that Gunther should be thanking Aldis for saving his job after his actions in the last few weeks, and says that if it were up to him, Gunther would have been fired. He then says the position came from the higher-ups and that Aldis has made sure that his match with Sami Zayn against Cody and Punk goes as scheduled, including the stipulation. Pearce announces that if Gunther and Sami win on Saturday, Gunther will be added to the Undisputed WWE Championship match at SummerSlam, and the match will become a Fatal 4-Way. Suddenly, Cody Rhodes shows up and runs into the ring to attack Gunther, much to Pearce's chagrin. Cody sends Gunther out of the ring, then tells Gunther that it is on sight after what Gunther did to him and that Gunther will not make it past Saturday Night's Main Event. Cody then says that the road to Saturday runs through him and that he wants a one-on-one match with Gunther, and that all he needs is Pearce's blessing. Pearce makes the match official.

Backstage, Raw General Manager Adam Pearce announces that Rhea Ripley is closing to returning from injury, yet it is his unfortunate duty to announce that Rhea will not be able to compete at SummerSlam. Pearce announces that tonight and over the next few weeks, there will be five matches to determine who enters a ladder match to decide an Interim WWE Women's Champion. When Rhea Ripley returns, an undisputed champion will be decided.

Finn Balor beats Talla Tonga after hitting Tama Tonga with the Sling Blade on the outside.

Backstage, CM Punk meets with Raw General Manager Adam Pearce. He feels that Gunther wants to hurt "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes instead of win, but Pearce says that Cody wants his receipt. Punk says he will talk to Cody, then meets with Damian Priest, who thanks him for the shout-out from last week and is waiting for him if he still champion. Punk says he and Cody will be waiting if he and R-Truth stay tag team champions. Punk leaves, then R-Truth shows up, apparently having heard nothing that Priest and Punk were talking about.

We hear from Jade Cargill, Nia Jax, Jacy Jayne and Tiffany Stratton, who are looking forward to winning tonight and advancing to the ladder match to decide an Interim WWE Women's Champion.

Tiffany Stratton beats Jacy Jayne in an Interim WWE Women's Championship ladder match qualifier. Before the match begins, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) attack Tiffany, but Brie Bella and Paige rush in to even the numbers and make the match truly one-on-one.

We hear from Baron Corbin, who says he has been watching everyone think they can walk the walk and talk the talk when he is the real deal and everyone knows it. He says that Trick Williams is the first name on a long list while Carmelo Hayes is collateral damage. He tells Trick to smile while he can and enjoy it while he can, because he is coming for it all.

Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Trick Williams, who calls Baron Corbin "a bald-headed bitch," then Carmelo Hayes shows up and says that Trick Williams is not better than him and that he can see it just by looking at him. Trick says he has been on SmackDown longer than him and has done nothing, then tells Carmelo to mind his business while grown folk are talking.

Actor Matthew Rhys is seen in the front row.

Jade Cargill beats Nia Jax by disqualification in an Interim WWE Women's Championship ladder match qualifier after Charlotte Flair shows up, attacks B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim at ringside, then hits Jade Cargill with a big boot in the ring in full view of the referee. After the match, Charlotte wraps a metal folding chair around Jade Cargill's right arm, but Michin and B-Fab pull Cargill out of the ring. Cargill is declared winner by disqualification, and an angry Nia Jax squashes Charlotte in the corner and leaves. Cargill then hits Charlotte with Jaded.

Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Gunther. Gunther says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes always finds a way to make everything about him and solely acts on emotion, and tonight, he will beat rationale into Cody. As for tomorrow, he does not care about Sami Zayn, and he will go into SummerSlam and become Undisputed WWE Champion. Candice LeRae wheels Johnny Gargano out, and tells Gunther that if he wins, Sami Zayn is also in the Undisputed WWE Championship match, and that she and Gargano need this win. Gunther tells Candice to tell Sami to show up, shut up and not get in his way. Gunther leaves, and Blake Monroe - who has been waiting in the background - attacks Candice from behind before introducing herself. Blake leaves, then tells Gargano he needs a haircut.

Backstage, Nia Jax and Lash Legend demand consequences for Charlotte Flair from Raw General Manager Adam Pearce, and Pearce gives Nia Jax another opportunity at the Interim WWE Women's Championship ladder match next week against Charlotte Flair.

The Relyea Family are the recipients of tonight's Papa John's Seat Upgrade.

The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) beat Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom).

In footage from earlier today at Fantatics Fest NYC, LA Knight makes fun of The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) alongside Royce Keys and Solo Sikoa before stating that the three of them will beat The Usos and Jacob Fatu at SummerSlam. We then see even more footage from Fanatics Fest NYC.

Backstage, CM Punk meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes regarding his match with Gunther tonight, asking if it is a good idea. Cody says it is not, but Punk would have done the same thing. Punk tells Cody that he has his back tonight in case Gunther tries to hurt him, but Cody tells Punk to watch from backstage as he does not want him at ringside.

Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Danhausen. Danhausen says he will not be outnumbered, then puts a cage with a stuffed black cat inside it on a nearby table, saying the cat will curse JD McDonagh on Saturday. A nearby monitor sparks, then Danhausen says he and Jackie should run.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther ends in a no-contest. During the match, CM Punk heads to ringside to cheer Cody on, and later on, Sami Zayn comes out of the crowd to attack CM Punk at ringside. Cody confronts Sami, and Gunther goes for a sleeper hold on a distracted Cody only for Cody to slip out and hits Sami with a tope suicida. Cody gets back in the ring, and Sami drags Cody back out of the ring and attacks him in full view of the referee, ending the match. After the match, Punk and Cody brawl with Gunther and Sami, and officials rush in to break up the brawl as the show ends.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for July 10, 2026

General Manager Nick Aldis is in the ring to start tonight's show. He addresses the physical altercation with Gunther after Night of Champions, takes accountability for his part in the incident, and announces that he is now General Manager of the brand again. Aldis then introduces CM Punk to the ring, then gives Punk the floor and leaves the ring. Punk says that he missed the fans on SmackDown after two-and-a-half months of working to move to the blue brand, the attempts at which were expedited when a challenge for Sami Zayn was needed. He says that when opportunities fall from the sky, he catches them, and after getting ready for the match in his own home and kissing his wife goodbye, he is now Undisputed WWE Champion. Punk says that he is not like other wrestling, much like other champions, and that he plans to be a fighting champion every week and defend every chance he gets, for he draws a target on his back as the locker room is full of hungry, talented individuals who want what he has. Punk then throws an open challenge to anyone who thinks they have what it takes to wrestle "The Best in the World," for he is not hard to find and he will defend the WWE Championship with his blood, sweat and tears for the fans. Punk also addresses what Sami Zayn said about him on social media and says that he will give him a shot, as he certainly deserves a rematch. He also addresses Gunther, saying they remembered their last match, and also proposes that they square off again. He also mentions his recent two matches with Finn Balor and that he looks forward to facing him in neutral territory. Punk also mentions Royce Keys, Damian Priest and Trick Williams, then "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes shows up and heads to the ring.Cody asks Punk how his left eye, and Punk says that it looks a lot worse than it feels. Cody mentions how he had a black eye and how a championship opportunity fell into Punk's lap. He then says that while there are matches like the one Punk had, there are those that have been building for years. Punk mentions their history and their friendship and how he does not want the WWE Championship to come between it all. Punk says they may not be able to run away from each other anymore, to which Cody agrees, mentioning that he had told him "Just say when." Punk interrupts Cody as he speaks, saying "When." Cody says "SummerSlam." Both men shake hands. Aldis makes Cody vs. Punk for the Undisputed WWE Championship an official main event match for SummerSlam.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Cargill says that she is already to go and is ready to break Alexa Bliss' face. Michin says Charlotte Flair needs as many lessons as it takes to get the picture like Alexa, and B-Fab says that Charlotte will get a front row seat to see Alexa get snapped for a twig. Cargill says that everything that will happen to Alexa tonight will be Charlotte's fault and that she will not be held responsible.

UFC middleweight fighter Dricus Du Plessis is seen in the crowd.

Finn Balor beats Tama Tonga.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Carmelo Hayes. Carmelo says he has done nothing but prove and deserve, then says Trick Williams may have the aura, but it will not help him against someone with his star power. He says his aim has never been more clear and that tonight is his moment.

Backstage, R-Truth has to pay up to Fraxiom (Nathan Fraser and Axiom) due to the United States losing in the World Cup, then The War Raiders show up. Jimmy Uso and Jacob Fatu show up looking for Solo Sikoa. R-Truth says he has yet to see Solo, but when Jacob says he is looking for Royce Keys, Truth says he has not seen him, either. Damian Priest shows up and says that Royce Keys is here and in the building, and when R-Truth asks Priest why he mentioned where Royce Keys is, Priest says that Royce Keys is not their problem.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis is on the phone with Sami Zayn, who is on a mental health break, and Sami is not happy with Cody vs. Punk for the WWE Championship at at SummerSlam. Suddenly, Gunther shows up and says that Aldis made a big mistake, but he is going to give him a chance to fix this before the end of the night, as he deserves to be in the ring with the champion and he does not care if he even has to face both Cody and Punk. Aldis says he will take that into consideration.

Jimmy Uso and Jacob Fatu are in the ring. Jimmy Uso calls out Solo Sikoa, but Royce Keys shows up and heads to the ring instead. Royce Keys addresses Jimmy Uso mentioning his name both last week and this week, then says that "the family business" is starting to affect everyone and is starting to affect him. Jimmy Uso says tonight is about "OTC business," and when Royce mentions that Roman Reigns is not here, Jacob Fatu steps up and says that they are good friends and that they should keep it that away. He tells Royce that he can say anything about anyone else, but warns him not to mention Roman Reigns again. Royce Keys says it does not have to be like this, and when Jimmy Uso says that nobody tells them what to do and that Royce Keys is not family, Royce Keys says that royalty, not blood, makes family, and that Jacob is his family and he will not let that fall. Jacob tells Royce that he will cross a line that he will not be able to come back from, and Royce says that he did not come here to fight, but he will cross that line. Jimmy thinks Royce is crazy for taking him and Jacob on, but Jacob tells Jimmy that there is no "we" here and that this is all on Jimmy, because he is out. Jacob then walks away, and Jimmy calls for a referee so they can have a match. Jimmy then goes for a cheap shot, but Royce makes him pay for it by immediately overpowering him.

Jimmy Uso beats Royce Keys. During the match, Solo Sikoa sneaks up on Jimmy Uso from behind on the outside and nearly hits him with a Samoan Spike, but Jacob Fatu comes back and beats up Solo Sikoa. Solo and Jacob go at it on the outside, and Jacob gets Solo in the Tongan Death Grip. Back in the ring, this allows Jimmy Uso to hit the Spear on a distracted Royce Keys for the pin and the win. After the match, Jacob gets Solo back in the ring to stomp a mudhole in him, then Royce Keys confronts Jacob. Jacob superkicks Royce and hits him with a senton, then takes a chair from Jimmy and wraps it around Solo's head. Jacob stops short of a hip attack on Solo and tells him to be ready next week on Raw, and this time, he will not stop.

We see Sami Zayn's message from after last week's Raw where Sami calls CM Punk a "piece of shit" for just waltzing in and taking the WWE Championship from him.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews CM Punk, who says that all challengers can get in line and that he has been called much worse by people other than Sami Zayn. Candice LeRae shows up, and Johnny Gargano is planking on a nearby box. Candice says Sami is the only one who did not give up on Gargano and was "the voice of the voiceless" and that Sami was their hope until Punk took that from them. Punk tells Gargano and Candice to get back in the ring, as this is not working. As he walks away, Punk runs into Finn Balor, who welcomes him to the blue brand.

We hear from Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid), who talk about how they will be the center of attention in Madison Square Garden and how they will take the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships from Paige and Brie Bella at Saturday Night's Main Event, courtesy of Chime.

Jade Cargill beats Alexa Bliss. During the match, B-Fab trips Alexa on the outside, and that allows Charlotte Flair to send Jade Cargill neck-first into the ropes behind the referee's back. "Michin" Mia Yim goes after Charlotte only to eat a big boot, then B-Fab sends Charlotte into the ring post. Alexa takes out B-Fab afterwards, but Cargill is soon able to hit Alexa with a pump kick followed by Jaded for the pin and the win. After the match, Michin grabs a chair, but Charlotte stops Cargill from grabbing it. Michin and B-Fab almost overpower Charlotte, but Charlotte fends them off until Cargill superkicks her. Cargill places Alexa's left arm inside the chair and bends the arm back to the point of injuring it as officials arrive too late.

Backstage, Trick Williams is looking for the WWE United States Championship and blames Ricky Saints for it, then Lil Yachty shows up with a United States Championship belt lined with white fur. Yachty then tells Trick to give "a diamond butt-whuppin'" to Carmelo Hayes tonight.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss is helped into the trainer's room by officials as well as Charlotte Flair.

Carmelo Hayes vs. Trick Williams ends with both men being attacked by a returning Baron Corbin (formerly known as Bishop Dyer), who has not been seen in WWE in over a year.

Gunther heads to the ring. Gunther says that he gave General Manager Nick Aldis until the end of the evening to fix things, and demands that Aldis give him a decision. Aldis shows up and says that despite their history, he will give Gunther exactly what he wants. He gives Gunther "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and CM Punk at Madison Square Garden on Saturday Night's Main Event, but Cody and Punk will team up against Gunther and Sami Zayn. Aldis says the mistake he needs to fix is thinking Gunther would not be a pain in his ass after signing him to SmackDown. Gunther attacks Aldis in response and puts him in a sleeper hold that officials have to break up. Gunther seemingly walks away, then puts Aldis in a sleeper hold and attacks him again. He lets go, then locks in a third sleeper to end the show. The show fades to black as "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes makes his way to the ring. After the show goes off the air, Cody dares Gunther to fight him, but Gunther heads to the back.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for July 3, 2026

Sami Zayn heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Sami says it seems a lot of people came to ride or die with "the last real good guy," then thanks the fans for their support before finding it hilarious that the people who were previously booing him once wanted him to be world champion. He says he could be petty and tell those who gave up on him to kiss his ass, but he will not, because he is a good guy and he never changed. He says that he did not become selfish to win the WWE Undisputed Championship and that he won it his way and the right way. He also says that he could tell those who said he could never win the big one to kiss his ass, but he will not, because this is a celebration and he will forever go down as one of the all-time greats, a WrestleMania main eventer and a Grand Slam champion. As Sami states that nobody can take this away from him, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes suddenly shows up and heads to the ring. Sami asks Cody what he wants to talk about. Cody says that Sami was the first to celebrate with him when he won his first WWE Championship, and that he is here to return the favor before he shakes his hand. Cody is about to leave when Sami asks him to stay and just be himself for a moment, as he has something that Cody once had and will want again, and asks Cody why he is really out here when "Main Event" Jey Uso shows up. Jey Uso and Sami Zayn do their old friendship handshake before Jey tells Sami that he is proud of him and that he deserves it, but tells him that he wants to bring the gold back to the family and that it is just business. Cody asks what year it is and asks when Jey was reduced to running errands for Roman Reigns, and Sami Zayn says that as far as he is concerned, the WWE Championship is still in the family and that it is not going anywhere. He tells Jey and Cody to stay away from him. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce shows up as Sami Zayn leaves, and says that as his first order of business taking over for Nick Aldis is to find a new challenger for Sami. Sami wants some say on his SummerSlam opponent, but Pearce says his new challenger will face him next week on Raw and it will be whoever wins between Jey and Cody tonight.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that Jade Cargill got what she deserved and that she will keep teaching Cargill lessons until she gets the picture. Alexa Bliss shows up wishing that Charlotte told her she was at Night of Champions. As Alexa and Charlotte argue, Tiffany Stratton shows up and says she did not need her help, but thanks her. Chelsea Green shows up and says Jade Cargill should be worried about them, then Charlotte says "You're welcome" to Tiffany.

Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab beat Tiffany Stratton, Chelsea Green and Charlotte Flair in a six-woman tag match.

Backstage, General Manager Adam Pearce ends an angry phone call with Nick Aldis when Sami Zayn shows up. Pearce says he has given him a great opportunity to show he is a great champion on a great show, then runs off. Sami almost smacks another water bottle, then smacks it anyway when he sees Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae and tells Gargano that he won the big one and could not have done it without him. Sami says that one must stay true to themselves to win championship gold, then has Candice take a picture of him with Gargano.

Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against El Hijo del Vikingo.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia. Giulia says she does not back down from any fight, and if Blake Monroe stops being a coward, she will fight her anytime and anywhere. Kiana James shows up and says that Giulia is the kind of person to bite the hand that feeds her and that Giulia got lucky. Suddenly, Giulia is attacked from behind by Blake Monroe, and when Kiana mouths off at Giulia, Blake Monroe attacks her, too.

Backstage, Jimmy Uso is talking to Jacob Fatu when Royce Keys shows up. Jimmy wants to know where Solo Sikoa is on family business, and Royce says that blood does not make one family and that he has been loyal to Jacob for fourteen years, which makes him his family. Jimmy says "Not no more. Right, Jacob?" Jimmy leaves, and Jacob follows suit.

Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring. Before Lil Yachty can speak, Carmelo Hayes suddenly appears and makes his way to the ring. Carmelo says that Trick got the job done and that they have no choice but to run it back for the WWE United States Championship, then gives credit where credit is due to Trick Williams and says Trick is only unstoppable because he has not chosen to stop him. He says that Trick has changed the WWE United States Championship from a title to an accessory and that he can just buy him a replica title from WWEShop, then says the United States title is the workhorse title for those who are starving, and Trick looks like he has had too much to eat. As Carmelo tells Trick to put the title up against someone he knows best, saying that Trick has "two left feet and a mouth full of marbles" when in the ring with him, then Lil Yachty interrupts and tells Carmelo he has his match next week. He then says the match is not for the title, as Carmelo has had his chance and Trick needs to get his reps in, and that when Trick wins, Carmelo will have no more excuses as to why he cannot get the job done. Trick acknowledges that given their history, he knows Carmelo like the back of his hand, then turns around and backhands Carmelo before leaving with Lil Yachty. Carmelo responds with a dive over the top rope that takes out Trick. Trick has to stop Lil Yachty from retaliating.

Backstage, Danhausen has Kit Wilson and The Miz in his lab when Matt Cardona shows up. Danhausen mentions that he has a match with JD McDonagh on Saturday Night's Main Event, then says he has back-up local to New York City for the match. Dahausen then has Cardona twist a knob on a machine, which smokes when Cardona does so, and Danhausen thinks The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) sabotaged his equipment before leaving while Miz and Kit get shocked.

Lainey Reid beats Brie Bella after Jacy Jayne and Fallon Henley get involved on the outside.

Backstage, Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), R-Truth and Damian Priest have a hot dog eating contest, which R-Truth wins. Fraxiom leaves, the The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up and Ivar eats the hot dog while Erik asks if they will accept their challenges with both of their tag team titles on the line. R-Truth accepts their challenge to a winner takes all match, as does Priest, and Priest says it will happen on SmackDown.

Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes is met by Finn Balor. Cody welcomes Finn to SmackDown, and Finn says he has wanted to face him. He hoped that it would be for the title, however, and tells Cody to get the WWE Championship back. Cody leaves, then Tama Tonga shows up and says that he has thought about what Finn told him. Talla Tonga shows up from behind and attacks Finn, then Tama says he is closing the books from everything in his past and that Finn is next.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats "Main Event" Jey Uso to become #1 contender for the Undisputed WWE Championship next week on Raw after hitting Cross Rhodes following a sleeper hold attempt by Jey Uso in the corner.

Here are the highlights for tonight's show!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zuffa boxer Aaron McKenna is seen in the crowd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

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 June 12, 2026

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Aldis says he has not heard from Gunther yet, but he is assured they will hear from him tonight. Cody hopes that they have a good show tonight. Cody then runs into The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) and fist bumps them, then Jey says that tonight is his King of the Ring match, and he will win tonight, win the tournament and face him for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Cody hopes Jey is right, as Jey deserves to chase his title, but he hopes it is his decision and not Roman Reigns'.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill. Cargill says she has built a career off of pressure and has nothing to worry about, and "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab are certain that Cargill will win tonight. Cargill tells Rhea Ripley that she will get her lick back, and that she will see her at SummerSlam.

Charlotte Flair beats Lyra Valkyria, Sol Ruca and Jade Cargill by submission with a Figure Eight to Lyra to advance in the Queen of the Ring Tournament. During the match, Alexa Bliss and Tiffany Stratton show up to fight "Michin" Mia Yim when they get involved in the match, and this leads to a brawl that makes its way to the back.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton. Tiffany says that Jade Cargill should not be champion, and when "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab confront Tiffany, Chelsea Green comes to the rescue with a shinai.

Backstage, Jacob Fatu meets with The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso). Jacob Fatu says he is here for Solo Sikoa, and Jimmy says he is here to ensure nobody stops Jey. Solo says that they have their business and that he has his.

We see footage of Carmelo Hayes with the New England Patriots, who are seen in the front row.

We hear from Blake Monroe, who admires Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss as she writes in her diary, then says they have deluded themselves into thinking they are stronger together only to become weak and soft. She says that stars shine brighter alone before stating that she is coming soon to SmackDown.

Gunther meets with General Manager Nick Aldis backstage. Gunther says that he will be picking the referee for his match with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship, then says that he will know who the referee is by the end of the night.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Finn Balor, who is excited to be on SmackDown. He says that he has old friends and old foes and that his past is not erased by being here, then he is met by R-Truth, who declares that The Judgment Day is back together. Damian Priest shows up, and he and Finn are not exactly happy to see each other. Finn leaves for his match, and Priest says that all they need are each other and that they will still be champions after their match with The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga).

Tiffany Stratton and Chelesa Green vs. "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab is official for later tonight.

Brie Bella and Paige beat Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid) after Brie reverses Fallon's inside cradle on Paige behind the referee's back as the referee ejects Jacy Jayne for pulling Fallon Henley out of a submission hold from the outside of the ring.

Backstage, Sami Zayn is talking to Johnny Gargano again while Candice LeRae is on her phone. Sami takes Candice's advice to Gargano to "get up and do something about it" as advice for himself, and Sami then leaves to look for General Manager Nick Aldis.

Backstage, Los Garza (Angel and Berto) meets with Danhausen, asking him to re-curse the New York Knicks. They then hand him a bag of human money, then leave as Matt Cardona shows up. After Matt Cardona hands Danhausen his watch and a ring to keep the New York Knicks uncursed, Kit Wilson shows up with an electrified Miz, and Danhausen's like for a Frankenstein's Monster-like Miz causes Kit Wilson to swing a metal rod at Danhausen only to miss and hit a wire, which in turn electrifies Kit Wilson.

Sami Zayn heads to the ring. Sami says that the "ride or dies" showed up in full force for him in Europe compared to Providence, Rhode Island, and says the fans can either sit there with a sour look on their faces and boo him or ride and die with "the last real good guy." Sami then says that something has been brewing for months and months, and that it needs to come to an end. He says that he needs to clear the air, and asks that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes come to the ring. Cody comes to the ring, and Sami says they have had months' worth of misunderstandings where he helps Cody and ends up paying for it while Cody stands all, and wants to know if this is in an accident. Cody says that he cannot just turn this off and that they should not be in the ring this way. As Cody mentions WrestleMania 40, Sami says he was and still is happy for him, but mentions that Cody has lost past friends and wants to if it is them of if it is Cody. Cody says that he could not be honest with them like he can be honest with Sami, then tells Cody that the fans hate him and tell him that he sucks because he whines and cries and has become desperate. He says that the Undipusted WWE Championship is the only thing between them, then apologizes for holding the championship and that it means he never will. Sami slaps Cody, then starts apologizing. Cody slaps Sami back. Sami slowly leaves the ring, then comes back with a chair. Sami stands on the apron with the chair, then tosses it to the side and leaves.

Backstage, Jacob Fatu confronts Solo Sikoa with a message from Roman Reigns. He says it has been way too long and long enough, and that Roman needs him to come home. Solo says that is not home and that Jacob is Roman's lap dog, then wants to know what happened to Jacob. He says that Jacob used to be a killer that everyone was afraid of and was so close to beating Roman. Solo says Roman has done nothing but embarrass and humiliate him, which is not how someone treats somebody they love. Solo then tells Jacob to tell Roman that he can go to Hell. Jacob says he knows where Solo is coming from, but he has made his decision and he will stand on business, and if Roman sends him for him, he will come for him. Solo tells Jacob to tell Roman that if he wants him to come home, then he can come and get him.

Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against Axiom.

Backstage, Gunther meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, stating that he has made a decision. He says that he needs somebody with experience as well as their heart in the right place. He says he needs a good guy - the last real good guy - and says Sami Zayn will be the referee for next week's WWE Championship match.

Trick Williams and Lil Yachty show up at the arena.

Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring. Trick Williams is not happy that he lost in the King of the Ring Tournament, then says that it woke up something in him and lit a fire that he has not felt in a long time. Trick says he wants to step his game up and bring SmackDown to new heights. He says that he is the king of the new school and that he is still the United States Champion. All of a sudden, Ricky Saints shows up. As Saints makes his way to the ring, however, Carmelo Hayes shows up and shoves Saints out of his way to the ring. Saints beats Carmelo to the ring as Carmelo tells Trick to make up his mind, and Saints says that he beat Carmelo as Carmelo wants Trick to defend his title. Both men start arguing, and Trick tells them to battle it out so he can defend the title against the winner. As Trick leaves, Saints shoves Carmelo into Trick, and that leads to a brawl between Carmelo and Saints. Trick gets back into the ring and sends Carmelo into the ring post, then hits the Book End on Saints.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Royce Keys. All of a sudden, Solo Sikoa shows up and tells him that The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, Jimmy Uso, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jacob Fatu) is here to ensure Jey Uso wins tonight, and that Jacob Fatu is there to help him. He tells Royce that he does not have to fight with him, but he does not want Royce to be a casualty in Roman Reigns' war.

"Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab beat Tiffany Stratton and Chelsea Green after Jade Cargill pulls Tiffany Stratton off the ring apron before Chelsea Green can tag her in, which allows Michin to hit Chelsea with Styles Clash for the win. After the match, Jade Cargill gets in the ring, and Tiffany Stratton ends up being the victim of a three-on-one beatdown.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Kiana James. Kiana says she did everything for Giulia and that Giulia needed her, and the one time she asks her for help, she is useful. Giulia says she needed help with English and with contract, but Kiana says she did not need her for anything. Giulia says Kiana used her momentum, but Kiana says she eclisped her. Giulia says her English is better now, then slaps Kiana in the face.

Backstage, Tama Tonga welcomes Finn Balor to SmackDown, and he is also not happy to see Finn.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody says that Sami Zayn is an emotional wreck and all over the place before Sami suddenly shows up. Sami uses Cody's words against him before sarcastically wishing him good luck next week.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews LA Knight. Knight says that he saw it coming and that Jimmy Uso and Jacob Fatu are going to ensure Jey Uso wins tonight and are also trying to get Solo Sikoa back in the fold. He then says he will not make any promises, but if he can defy the odds, he will win the tournament and stomp Roman Reigns out.

"Main Event" Jey Uso beats Royce Keys, LA Knight and Finn Balor to advance in the King of the Ring Tournament after Royce hits Knight with a spinebuster only for Jey Uso to hit a top rope splash and pin Royce for the win. During the match, Solo Sikoa shows up to watch from ringside, and LA Knight ends up booting Royce Keys into him near the end of the match.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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!