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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Giulia and Kiana James watch the next match from ringside.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for March 13, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Thursday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for February 19, 2026

The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy and Erick Rowan) beat Los Garza (Angel and Berto).

Oba Femi beats Joaquin Wilde.

Ivy Nile beats Skylar Raye.

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for January 23, 2026

Sami Zayn heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Sami talks about how he has a chance tomorrow night to become the #1 contender for the WWE Championship when Trick Williams shows up. Trick says that he and Sami are not on the same level and that unlike Sami, he knows how to get the job done. He also mentions that the last time Sami had an opportunity at the WWE Championship in his own city, he did not get the job done, then says once again, unlike Sami, he can get the job done. Sami admits some of the things that Trick said are totally true, then reminds Trick that when he steps into the ring with him, he is in the ring with the best of the best, and that Trick will be half as good as he is in five or ten years if he is lucky. He then dares Trick to do something about it right now, but Trick says he has other things on his mind, such as a match with Damien Priest in tonight's main event, and that they can take care of things tomorrow. Suddenly, Damian Priest shows up and says that Trick is better at talking than wrestling before declaring that Trick is afraid of him and that Trick believes that if he says the wrong thing to him, he will drop him where he stands. He says that if Trick does not want to say something, then he can always do something. Trick tells Priest to mind his business when grown folks are talking and that he is not afraid of Priest, then hits Sami with the microphone where he stands and lays him out. Priest and Trick brawl, and when Sami goes for a piece of Trick, Priest shoves him out of the way only for Trick to fend them off and retreat.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Randy Orton. Orton says he has every intention of taking world championship gold for the fifteenth time, and that he will beat Sami Zayn, beat Damian Priest, whoop that Trick, fly to Saudi Arabia, and beat Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship at Royal Rumble.

In backstage footage from earlier today, Carmelo Hayes meets with Ilja Dragunov, telling him that the United States open challenge is open for him if he wants it. Dragunov says he lost to Sami Zayn and is not in the best condition, but he will still face him. Dragunov leaves, then The Miz shows up and takes exception to Carmelo and Dragunov being friends, then says that giving out title shots does not make a title prestigious. When Miz asks Carmelo what Dragunov gave him, Carmelo says that Dragunov gave him more of an opportunity than he ever did.

Carmelo Hayes retains the WWE United States Championship against Ilja Dragunov after The Miz shows up and shoves Dragunov off the top rope.

In footage from earlier today, Michael Cole interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody looks forward to regaining the WWE Championship. On the subject of Jacob Fatu, Jacob shows up with security and General Manager Nick Aldis, who stay around as Jacob Fatu says his focus was on Drew McIntyre, who kicked his teeth down his throat. He says that Cody had to be the hero and that it got him thinking, but Cody says it looked more like acting, and that acting and not thinking got him sent to prison. Jacob Fatu says he made some terrible choices, but they made him a better man and led him to stand in front of Cody. Cody reminds Jacob that he is not WWE Champion because of him, and that their match should be for the WWE Championship. Jacob says McIntyre was already out before he showed up, and Cody reminds Jacob that he has never been in a title match. Jacob says they never made them like him, and that he is in control and not a loose cannon like some people think he is.

Backstage, Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre run into Jordynne Grace. Chelsea says that Jordynne is a star and that stars deserve a platform to shine on, and offers her a position in the Secret Hervice. When Chelsea mentions that she has a match with Jade Cargill, Jordynne says she will be at ringside.

Roman Reigns declares for the men's Royal Rumble match.

Jade Cargill beats Chelsea Green. After the match, Jordynne Grace says she has declared for the women's Royal Rumble match and that she will see her on the other side, then says that since Jade is warmed up, they can do it right now. Cargill leaves the ring, saying she will do this on her time.

Backstage, Charlotte Flair meets with Alexa Bliss. Alexa says she can focus on other titles, but Charlotte says the women's Royal Rumble is coming up soon. They both agree that tonight is about the team as Charlotte brags about winning last year.

We hear from Solo Sikoa, who says that he will not only win the men's Royal Rumble, but he will bring the WWE Championship back home. He then says that as long as he has Bray Wyatt's lantern, there is nothing Bo Dallas or Uncle Howdy can do about it.

The MFTs (Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga) beat The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) to win the WWE Tag Team Championships! During the match, Talla Tonga shows up with Bray Wyatt's lantern after Erick Rowan fights off Tonga Loa and JC Mateo, and Loa and Mateo keep Rowan busy long enough for Talla to hit a big boot. Uncle Howdy catches up to Talla and puts him in a mandible claw, but Solo Sikoa hits him with a Samoan Spike. As the referee is not looking, Solo hits Dexter Lumis with Bray Wyatt's lantern, and Tama Tonga hits Cutthroat to win the match and the titles.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis is met by R-Truth, who declares for the Royal Rumble after putting his tumbler balls in Aldis' hands. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles meets with Nick Aldis, who is amazed that Styles is putting his career on the line against Gunther. Styles says Cena went out like a man on his shield and that Gunther was disrespectful, then says he will not let Gunther end his career. Aldis then brings out Shinsuke Nakamura, who asks Styles why he is willing to lose everything and tells him to prove that he is still phenomenal in a match against him at Saturday Night's Main Event. Styles accepts.

Nathan Frazer beats Johnny Gargano after Axiom blinds Candice LeRae with his blue mask, causing Candice to hit Johnny Gargano on the outside and giving Frazer the win. After the match, Axiom gets his mask back, but not for long, as Candice takes it back and flees through the crowd.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Nia Jax and Lash Legend. Lash says they have already proven they are the most destructive team in the women's division, and Nia says they will win the women's Royal Rumble and the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.

Drew McIntyre heads to the ring. McIntyre says that it has been over 30 years since the Montreal Canadiens won the Stanley Cup, but Montreal now has a champion to be proud of in him. He hopes to see Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu rip each other apart, then reminds Cody that there is no rematch and that he must win the Royal Rumble to face him again. McIntyre then talks about the Fatal 4-Way #1 contender's match for the WWE Championship at Saturday Night's Main Event, and when he addresses Sami Zayn, he says that Sami's son was disappointed since he opened his eyes and realized Sami was his father. He says that he does not care who wins the Fatal 4-Way Match and wishes good luck to whoever faces him at Royal Rumble.

Backstage, Rey Fenix runs into Trick Williams, who states that he will become the Undisputed WWE Champion and will give Rey Fenix a title shot if he remembers his name.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Kit Wilson. Wilson says somebody has to clean up the toxic masculinity in the locker room, then Matt Cardona shows up and wants to know what the problem is. Wilson accuses Cardona of entitlement and toxic masculinity, and Cardona challenges him to a match in the ring.

Giulia and Kiana James beats the team of Nia Jax and Lash Legend and the team of Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss to become #1 contenders for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships. During the match, Lash hits Alexa with the Lash Extension only for Charlotte to hit her with a Spear. As that happens, Kiana pins Alexa to win the match and the title shot.

Backstage, Sami Zayn runs into Damian Priest. He admits that both of them were frustrated and that he has no problem with him, then tells him he has his back. Priest tells Sami that he has this match and tells him to stay out of it. Sami says "Or what?" Priest says "You know exactly 'Or what.'" Sami says Priest does not tell him where to go this week or any week before he confronts Drew McIntyre and slaps him in the face.

Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes catches up with "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and wishes him good luck against Gunther, then notices a signed picture of Drew McIntyre on his tour bus.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia and Kiana James. Giulia looks forward to becoming a double champion and winning the women's Royal Rumble to become a triple champion. Kiana James announces that this is just the beginning.

Trick Williams beats Damien Priest by disquaification During the match, Sami Zayn shows up, and later on, Trick throws Priest into Sami on the outside. When Trick throws Priest back into the ring and then gets back into the ring himself, Sami gets in the ring and attacks Trick, ending the match. After the match, Sami continues to attack Trick, then Priest shoves Sami for costing him the match. Sami and Priest brawl, and in the end, Trick is the one left standing after a Trick Shot to Priest. As Trick celebrates in the ring, however, Randy Orton gets in the ring and hits him with an RKO. Sami confronts Orton, and after a brief conversation, Orton hits Sami with an RKO to end the show.

Here are the highlights for tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for January 9, 2026

Randy Orton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. After Orton welcomes everyone to the show, Trick Williams shows up. Trick Williams talks about how everyone around the world loves him, then Orton makes it clear they are on different levels even though he sees a star in Trick. However, he questions why Trick is interrupting him, saying he does not have the brains. Trick says he respects Orton, but he will do what he has to do when it comes to brushing up against someone like him, and says that this is his era now. Trick turns his back as he says that, and Orton lets it slide that one time, saying that if it happens again, he will kick his ass. Trick slaps the microphone out of his hand, and Orton looks to see how far it went before hitting a cheap shot. Orton hits the draping DDT on Trick, but The Miz suddenly shows up and attacks Orton from behind. Orton fights back when The Miz grabs him from behind and hits him with an RKO. As Orton leaves the ring, Rey Fenix heads to the ring for the next match.

Trick Williams beats Rey Fenix after countering a roll-up with one of his own and grabbing the tights.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Giulia and Kiana James. Giulia says her title is back where it belongs, and Kiana says that Giulia is an asset with an upside that has yet to be accounted for, and that Giulia will soon dominate the market. Giulia then says that she will make an example of Alexa Bliss.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Damian Priest, who says that he and Aleister Black both won battles, but he won the war. As for what is next, he wants to vie for the WWE Championship. Drew McInytre shows up, and Priest says he knows how dangerous McIntyre is. He knows that McIntyre might become champion tonight, but if that happens, they get to go another round, and reminds McIntyre that he scrambled his brains last time. Priest leaves as Saxton interviews McIntyre, who says that Cody Rhodes' emotions are high and that he can only imagine the look on his face now that he has his gold Rolex watch that Dusty Rhodes pawned to pay for Cody's future. He says that Cody will be disqualified in the first fall and that he will need only one fall to become champion.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss calls a sick Charlotte Flair and talks about her match with Giulia when Nia Jax and Lash Legend show up. Lash thinks that Charlotte's absence is convenient for Charlotte, but Alexa says that this is something Nia would do, then tells Lash to drop Nia before she brings her down and heads to the ring for her match.

German influencer and former professional soccer (football) player Sidney Friede is seen in the front row.

Giulia retains the WWE Women's United States Championship against Alexa Bliss after the referee checks on Kiana James - who gets slapped by Alexa for getting on the ring apron - only for Lash Legend to show up and shove Alexa off the top rope as she goes for Twisted Bliss, allowing Giulia to hit the Northern Lights Bomb to win and retain. After the match, Nia Jax and Lash Legendgang up on Alexa, and Nia hits Alexa with an A-Nia-Lator.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis congratulates Jordynne Grace on signing with SmackDown when Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre show up with Chelsea demanding a championship rematch. After Nick Adlis asks Chelsea to welcome Jordynne to SmackDown, Jordynne says that she is not going to be a diva like some of the women, and Alba Fyre steps in and tells Jordynne to watch her tone. Aldis makes a match between Alba and Jordynne, and tells Chelsea to help Alba get ready. Kit Wilson shows up as Jordynne, Chelsea and Alba Fyre leave, demanding a match, but Nick Aldis slams the door in his face when he says he will think of something.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Matt Cardona. Cardona says it has been six years, but he is glad to be back after reinventing himself on the road back to WWE. He then notices "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, telling him he has the match with Drew McIntyre under control, then says he is back for the WWE Championship. Cody says they will talk when he is done with Drew McIntyre.

The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga) beat The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis) in an eight-man tag match after Solo grabs Uncle Howdy's lantern, distracting Uncle Howdy and allowing Tama Tonga to hit the Cutthroat for the win.

Backstage, The Miz runs into Carmelo Hayes, saying he has gotten a championship opportunity and that when he wins that and wins Carmelo's United States title, he will become a three-time Grand Slam Champion. Carmelo Hayes says he will see The Miz at the open challenge, but The Miz reminds him of what Randy Orton did to him. Carmelo gives The Miz another week to prepare after joking with him, then runs into Ilja Dragunov and tells him he is holding the open challenge right now, and Dragunov tells Carmelo they will fight again in another time and place. He then says that he is going to talk to General Manger Nick Aldis about something different.

We see a vignette for Oba Femi.

Jordynne Grace beats Alba Fyre in her SmackDown debut after throwing Alba into Chelsea Green when Chelsea gets on the apron. After the match, Jade Cargill shows up and gets a good look at Jordynne, then tells Jordynne that she is on her show and that she is that bitch.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Sami Zayn. Sami Zayn says a small part of him wants Drew McIntyre to win tonight, as he is the one person he has never beaten, and beating him for the WWE Championship sounds great. He is also rooting for Cody, calling him a great friend and champion, and that he wants to test himself against the very best. He says that if he had to choose, his money is on Cody. Sami then proclaims that regardless of who wins, he is waiting on the other side.

Backstage, Nathan Frazer is met by Axiom, who is not in his gear and is wearing the blue mask that Johnny Gargano that stole. It turns out to be Gargano in disguise, and he and Candice LeRae go on the attack until the real Axiom chases them away.

Carmelo Hayes' open challenge opponent is revealed to be Shinsuke Nakamura.

Carmelo Hayes retains the WWE United States Championship against Shinsuke Nakamura.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody says that he is the one making the comeback, not Dusty Rhodes, and that nobody realizes this until it is too late. He hopes to beat Drew McIntyre before looking forward to the Royal Rumble.

General Manager Nick Aldis talks about tonight's main event: the Three Stages of Hell Match. He then announces that next week in London, there will be four qualifying matches, with the winners facing off against each other at Saturday Night's Main Event to face the WWE Champion at Royal Rumble.

Drew McIntyre beats "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes in a Three Stages of Hell Match to become the Undisputed WWE Champion! Drew McIntyre wins the first stage - a straight wrestling match - after ripping off a turnbuckle cover and kicking Cody in the groin before hitting a Claymore Kick. Cody Rhodes wins the second fall - a falls count anywhere match - following a Cross Rhodes through the announce table. Drew wins the third stage - a steel cage match - after Drew McIntyre tries to escape the cage only to be attacked by a man in a black hoodie, who reveals himself to be Jacob Fatu. As Jacob attacks McIntyre, Cody steps in only for Jacob to also attack him. As Jacob hits Cody with a Superkick, McIntyre tumbles out of the cage, winning the third and final stage and becoming the Undisputed WWE Champion.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for December 19, 2025

Damian Priest heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Priest says the last few days have not been easy due to John Cena's retirement, as Cena has inspired so many and has become the greatest of all time, to which he says "Thank you, Cena." He then addresses how he and Rhea Ripley dropped Aleister Black and Zelina Vega, saying that business has been handled. As he looks to 2026, Zelina's laughter is heard. Zelina calls Priest a hypocrite and says that getting Rhea Ripley to fight his battles does not make him a real man, especially when he did not get the pin, and states that Priest cannot stand the fact that Aleister broke him. She says that Priest made his decision and now he will have to live with Aleister's. Priest is attacked from behind by Aleister, which starts a brawl. Priest hits South of Heaven on the ring apron on the outside, then pulls a table out from under the ring. Aleister strikes back with a metal folding chair after Priest sets the table up, then counters a potential South of Heaven into the table by shoving Priest into the ring post and kicking him. Priest goes for another South of Heaven after landing on the table, but Aleister escapes it and puts Priest through the table with a running Meteora off the knee apron.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Nia Jax and Lash Legend. Nia says that Lash beat Alexa Bliss handily, and Lash says Alexa stood no chance against her. She then says they are moving on from Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, and Nia says that when they beat The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane), they will slide into the women's tag title match and become the new champions. Nia says that they will be the champs regardless of who holds them, as does Lash. Nia says that they will be the champs regardless of who holds them, as does Lash.

Backstage, Damian Priest is being helped to medical when he is attacked from behind by Aleister Black again. Aleister soon smacks Priest with a snow shovel before hitting Black Mass.

Nia Jax and Lash Legend beat The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane). After the match, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss run into the ring and brawl with Nia and Lash. Charlotte and Alexa overpower them, and Lash pulls Nia out of the ring to save her from Twisted Bliss.

Backstage, Jackie Redmond is interrupted by Kiana James and Giulia. Kiana reminds Jackie that she has to go through her first to interview Giulia, who says that she will take out Alba Fyre before telling Chelsea Green that time is running out.

We see footage of General Manager Nick Aldis - with police - meeting with Drew McIntyre at the latter's home. Aldis offers McIntyre a WWE Championship match, but asks for a public apology to referee Dan Engler. He also mentions that McIntyre's payday from Survivor Series will cover his fine. McIntyre declines, saying this is what "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Nick Aldis wants and that he will be screwed again and that SmackDown has unsafe working conditions. He wants to pick the stipulation for the WWE title match, and wants no physicality before the match from cody or else Cody is stripped of the WWE title. Aldis tells McIntyre he has a deal, then McIntyre finds out that Cody Rhodes is at his home and thinks Aldis has set him up. Aldis deals with it, but when McIntyre arrives, Cody rushes at McIntyre, starting a brawl that police have to stop.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews General Manager Nick Aldis, who says that everything has gotten out of hand between "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. He says that Cody was out of line, but it is up to local authorities and not him. The Miz suddenly shows up, wanting a match with Joe Hendry, refusing to name him and does not want Aldis to name him either. Aldis says he can make that happen, then Miz turns around and sees R-Truth turn around and say "I believe in Joe Pesci" before clapping.

Giulia beats Alba Fyre.

We hear from The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross). Uncle Howdy says that Solo Sikoa's greed for status power has led him down a dark path. He says the truth lies beneath the surface and that the image Solo portrays will launch his family into a whole new world full of adversity and abandonment, and there will be nowhere for him to run. He states that what will happen will force Solo and his family to surrender.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. He admits to what he did at Drew McIntyre's home, then mentions McIntyre's comments of SmackDown being an unsafe working environment and asks if Staples would be a safe environment for him. Cody says that brawl at McIntyre's home was a tenth of what would happen in the ring, then General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and says that while McIntyre is full of crap, Cody made McIntyre's point for him and got the both of them in a lot of trouble. He says that he had to make a bad deal with McIntyre and reminds Cody is not above the law, and that he cannot help him with that, then tells Cody cannot lay a finger on McIntyre or else he will be stripped of the WWE Championship. Cody guarantees that he will not touch McIntyre, but in the spirit of all these demands, he says that Aldis has forgotten who he is talking to and that as long as he has the WWE title, he is the law. He says that he works for the fans, not for Aldis, and that Aldis works for him before leaving.

Backstage, Ilja Dragunov meets with Carmelo Hayes and thanks him for last week. Tama Tonga is watching from the background as Carmelo says there was nothing to it. As Dragunov says that they will both put #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) down, Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) show up and wish them luck, then ask them to leave #DIY for them after stealing Axiom's mask. Dragunov says that #DIY asked for this battle and that Ciampa is no longer a jackass; he is now his prey.

Ilja Dragunov and Carmelo Hayes beat #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa).

Backstage, Jackie Redmond interview Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss. Alexa says that Nia Jax and Lash Legend are not next in line like Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky are, and Charlotte says they are in the way. Jade Cargill shows up, and Charlotte and Alexa walk past before Jackie tries to interviews Cargill. Cargill says she was shocked to see "Michin" Mia Yim get up after she knocked her down, then says she will give Michin the spotlight before knocking her lights out. Michin shows up from behind and whacks Jade with a shinai, and has to be held back by officials.

We hear from Solo Sikoa, who says that Uncle Howdy talked a bunch of nonsense that means nothing, then says they have a problem when he threatens his family. He says he does not play games when it comes to his family, and that he will embarrass him in front of the whole world. He says the fireflies are here and that they will watch The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) take the tag team titles, as he has the whole world in his hands.

The MFTs (Tonga Loa and JC Mateo) vs. The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) for the WWE Tag Team Championships ends with everyone in The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) and The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis) brawling on the outside after Talla Tonga hits a big boot on Joe Gacy. The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) retain the WWE Tag Team Championships. Erick Rowan clotheslines Talla Tonga out of the ring after Talla hits just about everyone with a top rope cross body, then Solo Sikoa hits Rowan with a Samoan Spike. Uncle Howdy goes for Sister Abigail on Solo, but Tama Tonga puts a stop to that, and everyone keeps brawling as the show fades to black.

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for October 10, 2025

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Cody gets the "Daddy Cool" chant before addressing recent events regarding Seth "Freakin'" Rollins and Paul Heyman, stating that Rollins is becoming the type of person who he sacrificed himself to beat. He says that he will be Rollins' Achilles heel much like he was Roman Reigns' Achilles heel and says that he cannot blame Rollins falling into this trap, for when one loves WWE like Rollins does, one will do anything to protect it and keep it sacred. He then says that when one thinks they are the only person who can do all of that, that leads to one's downfall. Cody says that as much as he would love to be a leader, he is part of the greatest team to ever be assembled, and if he cannot pull his weight, there is someone else who can do it. He says there are other men and women like Randy Orton, Roman Reigns, Rhea Ripley, "Main Event" Jey Uso and CM Punk, and that Rollins could also be one of those people if he were not so envious of the spot he is in. This leads to a "Seth is a wanker!" chant, which Wade Barrett has to, in fact, confirm is a "Seth is a wanker!" chant before Cody states that Rollins thinks the world revolves around him and that he himself is the man that Rollins cannot beat.

Backstage, Chelsea Green congratulates Stephanie Vaquer on becoming Women's World Championship and says that she "has it," then offers her a position as a "Secret Hervice Slaygent" before Tiffany Stratton arrives. Chelsea leaves, and Stephanie says that she and Tiffany will have each others' backs tonight before they become competitors tomorrow.

Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes runs into Jacob Fatu, who says that he wants to face Cody for the Undisputed WWE Championship when Cody is done with Seth "Freakin'" Rollins. Cody says "Good," then walks away. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and says he loves nothing more than somebody leveling up in real time, and asks him to see him in his office about something. Aldis leaves, then Jacob is attacked from behind by Drew McIntyre. Aldis returns with officials to stop McIntyre from doing further harm.

Sami Zayn's next open challenge opponent is revealed to be Shinsuke Nakamura.

Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn for the WWE United States Championship ends in a no-contest. Sami Zayn retains the WWE United States Championship. During the match, Nakamura is pulled out of the ring and attacked by a man in a black hoodie, who is revealed to be a returning Tama Tonga in facepaint. Talla Tonga, Tonga Loa and JC Mateo also show up in facepaint, and the four of them gang up on both Sami and Nakamura before Solo Sikoa shows up and stands alongside them.

Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis confronts Drew McIntyre and tells him that next week, he will face Jacob Fatu in a one-on-one match. McIntyre is okay with this before he is attacked out of nowhere by Jacob, and Aldis and officials have to restore order.

Stephanie Vaquer and Tiffany Stratton beat Giulia and Kiana James.

Backstage, Sol Ruca asks Zaria questions about Australia when Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up. Charlotte warns Sol Ruca and Zaria that facing them is not just another match, and Alexa says that being in a match is a very big deal. Zaria says they are not waiting for their turn, and dares them to prove that they are not ready yet. Charlotte finds this disrespectful, yet bold. Sol Ruca admits they respect them, and states they just want a shot to prove they are among the best. Charlotte accepts, but Alexa warns them that they will not hold back.

The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) following the distraction from Erick Rowan, Nikki Cross attacking B-Fab on the outside, and Dexter Lumis saving Joe Gacy from a top rope splash by Montez Ford. After the match, MFT (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) shows up and stares down The Wyatt Sicks (Gacy, Dexter, Rowan, Nikki). Nikki steps up to Solo Sikoa when he gets in the ring, and Solo Sikoa calls his men off before demanding Uncle Howdy and leaving the ring.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Miz, who says that he saw potential in Carmelo Hayes and wanted to mentor him, yet Carmelo had the audacity to say he was done with him. He says that he is the spotlight and can turn into a star, and says that Carmelo blew it. He says that you can either rise with him or fall against him, and tells Carmelo Hayes that he missed.

We see a video package chronicling the events between Damian Priest and Aleister Black leading to tonight's main event Last Man Standing Match.

Aleister Black beats Damian Priest in a Last Man Standing Match after Priest gets Aleister on a platform near the crowd only for Zelina Vega - Aleister Black's real-life wife - to show up from out of the crowd and protect Aleister while begging Damian Priest off. This gives Aleister enough time to throw a fireball into Priest's face so he can kick him off the platform and through a table with Black Mass 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 25, 2025

WWE acknowledges the life, career and passing of Hulk Hogan with a ten bell salute. In memory of Hulk Hogan, 1953 - 2025.

Logan Paul heads to the ring. Logan Paul talks about how good it is to be home in Cleveland, Ohio, and while the city raised him, it did not make him; he made the city. He states that he has nothing in common with the people of the city, as he made it out and they did not, then says that tonight is about giving back to the community by hosting a live edition of Impaulsive with Jelly Roll as his guest. Logan says that he will show "that Kentucky fried convict" what a real host and inspiration looks like before Jelly Roll shows up and says that all Logan has inspired is children filming themselves acting like assholes. Logan tells Jelly Roll that he brought him out here to tell him he is getting into the ring with WWE's finest in him and Drew McIntyre, and that Randy Orton is forced to tag in Jelly Roll, and says Jelly Roll has nothing. When Logan asks Jelly Roll who he thinks he is, Jelly Roll says he is the one who will put him in a body bag and ship him back. He says that Logan has never had a struggle in his life, then says he is getting in the ring for every poor kid who never thought they would make it and got picked on by high school jocks like Logan Paul and to bring light to the ring, as he has been a WWE fan his entire life and WWE represented him and every single person.He also says he has been a WWE fan his entire life and WWE represented him and every single person. He also says that Logan is "soft as Charmin" as Logan continues to make fun of him and calls him a "Prime peddlin' punk-ass bitch." Drew McIntyre shows up, and Jelly Roll says Logan and McIntyre made a mistake if they thought he came here alone before bringing out Randy Orton, who punches McIntyre in the face and starts a brawl. McIntyre and Logan get the better of Orton and Jelly Roll, and when McIntyre goes for the ground and pound on Jelly Roll, he tags in Logan Paul to do it instead. Orton soon pulls McIntyre out of the ring, and he and Jelly Roll get the upper hand. Jelly Roll hits some back elbows, but Logan kicks Jelly Roll in the gut before going for the punch. Jelly Roll ducks and hits a Black Hole Slam on Logan, sending him and McIntyre into a retreat.

We hear from Andrade and Rey Fenix. They both know who the other is, as they have defend lucha libre culture and they are money. Fenix says they are on a different level, and that it is only a matter of time before gold is around their waists. Andrade says they are the standard, and Fenix says that they are money.

Roxanne Perez beats Alexa Bliss with a roll-up while grabbing the bottom rope for leverage after Alexa hits Raquel Rodriguez with Twisted Bliss on the outside while Raquel goes for a powerbomb into the ring apron on Charlotte Flair for throwing her into the timekeeper's area.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill, who says that she fought through something that was supposed to take her out and that she is Queen of the Ring, and she plans to prove why she is a natural-born champion. Cargill leaves, then Chelsea Green shows up with The Secret Hervice. As The Secret Hervice (Piper Niven and Alba Fyre) gets coffee for Chelsea, Chelsea says she was screwed out of Queen of the Ring and makes fun of Cargill as Cargill stands behind her. When Chelsea finds out Cargill is behind her, Cargill punches her in the face and keeps fighting her as she brings her to the ring. This leads to a match.

Jade Cargill beats Chelsea Green. After the match, The Secret Hervice (Piper Niven and Alba Fyre) attack Jade Cargill, but all of a sudden, Tiffany Stratton shows up and evens the numbers. Jade Cargill then hands the WWE Women's Championship back to Tiffany Stratton after a brief tug of war.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss is met by Charlotte Flair, who says that what happened tonight cannot happen at SummerSlam before reminding Alexa that they are partners.

We look back on Hulk Hogan beating The Iron Sheik for the WWF Championship in 1984.

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Cody talks about the passing of Hulk Hogan and the complicated nature of talking about him, then says that what is not complicated is Hogan's contributions to WWE and professional wrestling and thanks Hogan for all he has done. He then talks about his Street Fight at SummerSlam and says it is all about violence, and while John Cena will get plenty more of what he got last week then, he does not want to fight a coward; he wants to fight "the real John Cena." Cody says he wants to own this by facing and beating the very best and that John Cena is the very best, and if this is Cena's last SummerSlam, he wants Cena to come like it is his first, and he wants all the hustle, loyalty and respect they can beat out of each other. Cody says he wants to know if this means something and if this is real, and that only Cena has the answer. He then says he will see Cena next week.

Backstage, we hear from Jacob Fatu. He says he loved Solo Sikoa, but he made it personal. He says he does mind being in a cage with Solo Sikoa for the United States Championship, because he will dog walk him. Suddenly, The Miz shows up and confronts Jacob Fatu for putting him on the shelf for six weeks. He says Solo Sikoa reminded him that there is a bigger game and that Jacob is a pawn, then says they have a match tonight and it happens right now. He then slaps Jacob in the face, and Jacob laughs before daring The Miz to bring it on.

We see a video package for the feud between Aleister Black and Damian Priest.

The Katz Family are the recipients of the The Bad Guys 2 Seat Upgrade.

Jacob Fatu beats The Miz. During the match, Solo Sikoa and company (Tama Tonga, JC Mateo, Tala Tonga) show up, and at one point save The Miz from a hip attack only to be taken down before Jacob hits The Miz with a pop-up Samoan Drop for the win. After the match, Solo Sikoa and company attack Jacob Fatu, then Jimmy Uso shows up and fends them off with a metal folding chair. He hits Tala Tonga in the back with it, but it has no effect, and he boots Jimmy in the face. Jacob Fatu is held down by Tala, but he is able to fight his way out of a Samoan Spike, and he takes all four men out. He then sees the metal folding chair and wraps it around Solo's neck. He goes for a hip attack, but Tala Tonga makes the save with a big boot to the face. Tala then choke slams Jacob, and Solo hits Jacob with a Samoan Spike.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and B-Fab. B-Fab says The Wyatt Sicks are a different kind of enemy and must be beaten a different kind of way. As The Street Profits look forward to becoming champions again, #DIY (Johnny Gargano, Tommaso Ciampa, Candice LeRae) show up wanting to fix the mess they claim The Street Profits made. The Street Profits laugh them off, and #DIY tells them to stay out of their way.

We look back on Hulk Hogan beating Andre the Giant at WrestleMania 3 in 1987.

Backstage, Zelina Vega confronts Giulia. Suddenly, Kiana James shows up as Giulia's representation and calls herself "the proper channels" through which to communicate with Giulia. Zelina wants her rematch, and Kiana says she will get her rematch next week and become just another footnote.

Andrade and Rey Fenix vs. The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) for the WWE Tag Team Championships ends with Nikki Cross pulling the referee out of the ring as Andrade and Rey Fenix have the match won, which causes the referee to call for the bell. The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) retain the WWE Tag Team Championships. After the match, Erick Rowan gets in the ring and goes on the attack, and when other tag teams get in the ring, he decimates them, as well. Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley), Andrade and Rey Fenix work together to clear the ring. The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) show up and also help out. #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) then shows up with General Manager Nick Aldis, and this leads to everyone getting laid out as officials and security show up. Nick Aldis and announces that at SummerSlam, the WWE Tag Team Championships will be defended in a Tables, Ladders and Chairs Match. Everyone then starts brawling again to end the show.

Here are the highlights for tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for July 11, 2025

Jelly Roll runs into Randy Orton backstage at the start of the show.

LA Knight heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Knight says that two things that come out of Paul Heyman are actions and spoilers, and while Heyman does hold some power and Seth "Freakin'" Rollins has composed a team that has tried to injure him under Rollins' orders because Rollins could not do it himself. He says that dropping Rollins on his head is not enough and that he wants his dignity, he wants justice and he wants to hurt Rollins, saying that Rollins does not need to be scared to get his ass kicked. Heyman shows up and says he is blessed with many things in life and that as an oracle, he can see into the future for Rollins and his team as well as the future of the industry, and for LA Knight, he sees nothing, because Knight has no future at all. Suddenly, Solo Sikoa, JC Mateo, Tanga Loa and Tala Tonga show up, and Solo says that some things change and some things stay the same, and when Heyman left his family, everything changed. He says there is no Bloodline, no tribal chief and no wiseman, and if Heyman wants to live to see another day, then he should leave the company before he and his allies put him through another table. Heyman leaves through the crowd. Solo then addresses LA Knight, proclaiming that he is the new United States Champion and that Jacob Fatu is gone now that he has beaten him, and gives LA Knight the same opportunity to live to see another day that he did Heyman. LA Knight pretends to leave the ring at first, then tells Solo that he and his allies will have to make him leave. The ring is soon surrounded, when all of a sudden, Jimmy Uso slides a chair into the ring. Jimmy Uso and LA Knight get the better of Solo, Loa and Mateo, and when Tala Tonga gets on the apron, Solo calls him off. General Manager Nick Aldis arrives and says that if Solo wants a fight, then he will get one in the form of a tag team match where Solo Sikoa and JC Mateo face Jimmy Uso and LA Knight.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss asks Charlotte Flair to be ringside for her match. Charlotte says they are not friends, but Alexa says they are allies, and everyone else will have their tag team partners out there for tonight's Fatal 4-Way Match.

Limp Bizkit lead singer Fred Durst is seen in the crowd.

Alexa Bliss beats Kairi Sane, Roxanne Perez and Sol Ruca in a Fatal 4-Way Match after Raquel Rodriguez puts Roxanne's foot on the rope following a double Sol Snatcher and everyone's seconds go at it at ringside.

The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) beat The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) to become the WWE Tag Team Champions after Erick Rowan pulls Montez Ford out of the ring and Angelo Dawkins takes him out, which gives Joe Gacy enough of a breather to delay Montez Ford's top rope splash.

Backstage, Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) and #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) are not happy with the outcome, and the other two teams are angry with #DIY. Gargano says that everyone must come together, but nobody wants to listen to them. After Frazer says that Fraxiom deserves the first opportunity, Rey Fenix and Andrade show up and declare they are now part of the tag team division, much to #DIY's chagrin.

UFC lightweight fighter Michael Chandler, UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier and UFC fighter Laura Sanko are all seen in the crowd.

Jelly Roll performs on the ramp. As Jelly Roll performs, Logan Paul shows up and says everyone is here to see real WWE Superstars and not to listen made for people who have tattoos of children they do not have custody of. Logan Paul says the ring and that the arena is sacred, and that he is disgusted by celebrities and influencers coming into the sport of wrestling to chase clout, and calls Jelly Roll "a clout chaser." He says WWE needs a Logan Paul, not a Jelly Roll, and that he raises the bar for what a professional wrestler is. He also says that WWE loves him so much that his podcast has inked a long-team deal with WWE. Jelly Roll interrupts, reminding Logan Paul that Nashville, Tennessee is his hometown, and tells him that nobody gives a damn about his podcast. Both men argue, then Randy Orton shows up and chews out Logan Paul. He says that Logan Paul is the outsider around here and demands Logan show some respect, then calls him "a whiny little bitch" as he continues to chew Logan out. All of a sudden, Drew McIntyre shows up and hits Orton with a Claymore Kick. Security shows up and forces McIntyre to the back, then Logan Paul attacks Orton behind security's back. Jelly Roll takes things into his own hands, grabs Logan by the hair and throws him off of Orton and out of the ring. Security rushes back to the ring to stop Logan Paul, and Randy Orton is proud of Jelly Roll for his actions as officials keep the two of them in the ring. Logan then takes a guitar on the stage and smashes it into the drum kit, which he also destroys. Logan Paul also throws around all of the other instruments as well as the amplifiers.

Backstage, Randy Orton thanks Jelly Roll for having his back. Jelly Roll tells Orton he wants to see him in action tomorrow night, and Orton goes so far as to put Jelly Roll in his corner.

Ron Killings beats Aleister Black. During the match, Ron Killings grabs a metal folding chair, but Aleister steps on the chair, knees Killings in the face, then tries to hit Killings in the back with the chair only for the referee to try to take the chair away before Killings beats Aleister with an O'Connor Roll. After the match, the referee has to stop Aleister Black from going after Ron Killings.

Backstage, Damian Priest stops Aleister Black from going after Ron Killings and tells him to let it go. Aleister gives up and shakes hands with him, then turns around and knees Priest in the face before attacking him and hitting him with Black Mass.

Wade Barrett moderates a face-to-face meeting between Tiffany Stratton and Trish Stratus. Tiffany says Trish is her opponent because she has beaten the best WWE has to offer and wants to face one of the greatest of all time and become one of the best. Trish says she feels a lot of pressure, then says Tiffany should be feeling the pressure, too, and when she wins, she will leave with the WWE Women's Championship while Tiffany leaves with nothing. Tiffany says she will let Trish live out her glory days, then says things are different now, but Trish says she is still delivering for the women's division, and while she loves Tiffany, she will become an eight-time champion. All of a sudden, Naomi shows up, but she is attacked from behind by Jade Cargill. Officials show up to separate both women.

Jimmy Uso and LA Knight beat Solo Sikoa and JC Mateo after Paul Heyman suddenly shows up and distracts Knight from the timekeeper's area and Tala Tonga hits Knight with a big boot only for Jimmy Uso to get the upset win with a schoolkid pin. After the match, Tala Tonga, Tonga Loa and JC Mateo chase Jimmy through the crowd, then Bron Breakker shows up and hits Knight with a Spear before "Big" Bronson Reed also shows up and hits Knight with a Tsunami. Officials show up before any more harm can be done to end the show.

Here are the highlights for tonight's show!

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for June 27, 2025

"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring to start tonight's show. We are also introduced to the Arabic announce team of Faisal bin Mughaisib and Jude Aldajani. Before Cody can speak, Randy Orton makes his way to the ring. Orton says that Cody and "Main Event" Jey Uso had a match of the year contender on last week's Raw, and as much as he would like to see the King of the Ring crown on Cody's head, he says that he must be King of the Ring. Orton says that he wants to redeem himself after losing last year's tournament to Gunther and that he wants retribution against John Cena after Cena embarrassed him in front of friends and family. He says he cannot let how he feels about Cody get in the way of his goal and that there is nothing he will not do to leave Saudi Arabia with the crown on top of his head. He then says that goal will come true when he reintroduces Cody to the RKO. Cody says that "embarrassment" is not a word he would attach to Orton and Cena, and while he is grateful and thankful for Orton, he needs to be King of the Ring just that little bit more. Cody says that while RKO will still be the three most dangerous letters after all is said and done, Orton will not be King of the Ring, because he will. (During this portion of the broadcast, the show undergoes technical difficulties due to a power loss lasting approximately 30 minutes; this affected the international Netflix feed as the show aired live. Cody and Orton would interact with the fans afterwards to kill time.)

Backstage, Solo Sikoa gives Jimmy Uso one more opportunity to join them, and tells JC Mateo to make Jacob how it feels not to have anyone before he takes care of Jacob on Saturday and proves that they are just getting started.

JC Mateo beats Jimmy Uso following the distraction by Solo Sikoa. After the match, Solo helps Jimmy up, but Jimmy slaps Solo when Solo tries to get him to join the family. JC Mateo attacks Jimmy from behind, but Jacob Fatu shows up before Solo can hit the Samoan Spike. Jacob makes quick work of JC Mateo, and Solo rolls out of the ring. Jacob then hits JC Mateo with a moonsault from the top rope before, then he and Jimmy have a staredown before Jimmy shoves Jacob to the site to hit Solo with a superkick.

Backstage, #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) are seen talking to the rest of the SmackDown tag team division, saying that if The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) win the WWE Tag Team titles, they will hold the titles for a long time. General Manager Nick Aldis, who cannot help but overhear, brings out Andrade, then tells him to find a partner so he can face #DIY in a tag team match tonight.

We hear from Giulia, who says that she and Zelina Vega have been calling each other out since Zelina became champion. She says that her hard work is evident and that Zelina's title is just a stepping stone, and she will prove the title does not belong to her. We then hear from Zelina Vega, who says that the streets were not made for everyone and that sidewalks were made for people like Giulia. Zelina says she has worked hard and sacrificed to become Women's United States Champion, and that she will prove why she is the champion tonight.

Giulia beats Zelina Vega to become the WWE Women's United States Champion!

Backstage, Charlotte Flair runs into Alexa Bliss and refuses to talk about last week, then says she does not need help. Alexa says they should at least be on the same page as "allies of convenience," and tells Charlotte to think about it.

Wade Barrett interviews Jade Cargill and Asuka in the ring. Jade Cargill arrives first, followed by Asuka. Cargill says that people get nervous when they see Asuka, but people like Asuka are why she came to WWE, and she sees Asuka as purpose and not pressure and plans to beat her to become Queen of the Ring. Asuka says Cargill is strong, but power is not everything, as she has skill and experience. Before Cargill can reply back, Naomi shows up and says that Asuka and Cargill may fight over a crown, but she has all the power with the Money in the Bank contract. She entertains the scenarios in which she can cash in, and says that she can take a title away from Cargill like she did everything else and that it gives her pure pleasure to think about how she can ruin the biggest night of Cargill's career. Cargill fights past Asuka to swing at Naomi, but Asuka gets the last word on Cargill and lays her out.

Backstage, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis meets with Raw General Manger Adam Pearce regarding the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships when Aleister Black shows up. Aleister is soon interrupted by Ron Killings, who wants John Cena. After Ron Killings leaves when he does not get Cena, Aleister soon follows Killings.

We see footage of Los Garza (Angel and Berto) winning the AAA World Tag Team Championships from two weeks ago.

Andrade's tag team partner is revealed to be Rey Fenix.

Andrade and Rey Fenix beat #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa).

Ron Killings suddenly heads to the ring and calls out John Cena. All of a sudden, Aleister Black shows up behind him, and when Killings turns around, Aleister hits him with Black Mass and tells him they are even.

Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). Montez says it has been four years since they last held tag team gold, and that no other team will be able to take it from them anytime soon. Dawkins says The Wyatt Sicks are the only threat they have and that they must eliminate that threat. B-Fab shows up and tells The Street Profits that she has their backs.

Backstage, Aleister Black is met by Damian Priest. Priest tells Aleister Black that he knows what Ron Killings is capable of, and should consider paying back his debt in a one-on-one match, telling him that things could end up differently. Aleister leaves after he says he is sure they will, then Carmelo Hayes shows up and says Priest should let Killings handle his own business. Priest tells Carmelo to walk away now. Carmelo walks away.

The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) by disqualification when Los Garzas (Angel and Berto), starting a brawl involving the entire SmackDown tag team division, which is at ringside to watch the match more closely. After the match, Erick Rowan gets involved in the brawl, as does Uncle Howdy. The Street Profits take The Wyatt Sicks and the rest of the tag team division out after Axiom is hit with Sister Abigail by Howdy and it takes three people to take down Rowan.

It is announced that SmackDown goes back to two hours next week.

Backstage, Jacob Fatu runs into Jimmy Uso. Both men state they did not each others' help last week, but Jimmy does admit he has respect for Jacob for standing up to Solo Sikoa, which he wishes he did a long time ago. Both men come to a mutual understanding.

Tiffany Stratton retains the WWE Women's Championship against Nia Jax in a Last Woman Standing Match. During the match, Naomi tries to cash in on Tiffany Stratton, but Tiffany lays her out and even uses the Money in the Bank briefcase as a weapon, which helps her put Nia Jax through two tables to win the match and retain the title.

John Cena heads to the ring. Cena tells the Saudi Arabian that he is what a winner looks like and that CM Punk is a loser, then says Night of Champions is a formality and that Punk can do nothing about it. All of a sudden, CM Punk shows up in a parody of Cena's "Doctor of Thuganomics" gimmick called "Basic Punkanomics," saying he is ripping it off after Cena stole his pipebomb. He says that Cena has buried more talent than The Undertaker, can't act in movies like Batista, is more problematic than Hulk Hogan, can't wrestle, and is a washed up bum. Punk says that Cena is a leech for stealing his pipebomb, then says that at Night of Champions, Cena will "lose to Kendrick, 'cause bitch, you're my Drake." Cena is left speechless as the show ends.

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

Here are the highlights from tonight's show!