Jordynne Grace, previously known for her time in NXT, has been officially moved to the WWE SmackDown roster as part of ongoing WWE SmackDown roster changes. This transition, following her accomplished stint in TNA and recent contract signing with WWE, comes amid a period of significant shifts as the brand prepares for its expanded three-hour format in 2026.
Notable Additions and the Road to SmackDown
Grace became a WWE superstar in early 2025, shortly after the Royal Rumble, after previously holding the TNA Knockouts Title three times. As WWE SmackDown plans to expand its runtime in 2026, similar to the first half of 2025, company management decided to bolster the main roster by calling up several NXT talents. This strategic move is intended to provide enough star power and depth to fill the program’s extended airtime.
The latest SmackDown episode in Buffalo saw Trick Williams, a former NXT Champion, make his official debut on the blue brand. Matt Cardona, well known for his previous WWE run, also re-signed with the company after a six-year absence. Veterans such as Randy Orton and Sami Zayn returned after periods away, bringing more established talent back into the mix.
Jordynne Grace’s Arrival Shakes Up SmackDown
Jordynne Grace’s SmackDown debut included a backstage segment with the brand’s General Manager, Nick Aldis, who made it clear that he wanted the powerhouse competitor on his roster. The interaction was interrupted by Chelsea Green, a former Women’s US Champion, prompting Grace to leave the scene. This moment highlighted the immediate drama and intrigue surrounding Grace’s arrival.
Later that night, WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill joined Cathy Kelley for an interview segment, where Kelley discussed Michin’s storyline shoulder injury suffered at Cargill’s hands. Grace confronted Cargill, stating she was considering signing with SmackDown. Cargill dismissed the idea, asserting her dominance over the brand. Grace countered by declaring her own identity and left the confrontation, adding tension to the women’s division.
Main Roster Status and Contract Details
Reports from Fightful Select confirm that Grace’s appearance on SmackDown marked her official call-up to the main roster, solidifying her recognition as a full-time roster member. It was also revealed that although Grace had spent a year competing on NXT, her WWE contract was considered main roster level, which likely provided her with compensation equal to established WWE superstars.
During her tenure on NXT, Grace came close to securing championships, participating in a number of high-profile title matches and developing rivalries with names such as Blake Monroe and Kelani Jordan. She also recently supported Thea Hail in a prominent storyline. Despite her efforts, championship gold eluded her during her developmental stint.
Other High-Profile WWE Developments
Jordynne Grace’s move comes amid a flurry of other major WWE news. John Cena recently shared a heartfelt message on New Year’s Day, reaching out to fans via social media. Meanwhile, anticipation is building for the debut of another former World Champion on WWE SmackDown next week, promising to further energize the brand.
Speculation also surrounds an impending return for Vince McMahon, with sources suggesting that once TKO completes the WWE sale, McMahon could reclaim a central role. Additionally, Nick Aldis has threatened to strip a current WWE Champion of their title, following earlier actions taken against Cody Rhodes. On the retirement front, a former AEW and TNA performer from the independent scene recently stepped away from the ring at only 30, while a renowned WWE Women’s Champion has formally ended her in-ring career at age 48.
Negotiations continue as another ex-World Champion has reportedly received an offer to join the WWE SmackDown roster. Off the ring, controversy surfaced when John Laurinaitis was accused by a TNA legend of refusing to hire them over a relationship matter, prompting discussion about backstage dynamics in WWE hiring policies.
The Path Forward for WWE SmackDown
Jordynne Grace’s elevation to the SmackDown roster signifies WWE’s strategy to refresh its women’s division and build new rivalries. Her prior accomplishments in TNA and NXT, combined with her immediate involvement in storylines with champions like Jade Cargill, set her up as a key figure in the brand’s next phase. As WWE continues to revamp its programming, all eyes will be on the new arrivals and returning veterans to see how they shape the future of SmackDown and engage with an evolving roster.
