Randy Orton is set to make his first televised WWE SmackDown appearance since his recent loss at SummerSlam. This week’s event will feature The Viper stepping back into the ring, continuing his pursuit to become a 15-time WWE World Champion.
Orton’s latest storyline saw him team up with musician Jelly Roll in a match against Logan Paul and Drew McIntyre at SummerSlam, where Orton was defeated. Despite this setback, Orton’s focus remains clear as he prepares to reestablish his presence on SmackDown. Meanwhile, other key performers, including LA Knight who has shifted to Monday Night RAW to challenge Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship, are also making moves across WWE programming.
SmackDown this week will also showcase appearances from Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton, strengthening the card’s star power. A heated rivalry continues between Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa, with interference from The MFT causing tensions to rise. However, Fatu appears to have support from Jimmy Uso, adding further complexity to their conflict.
Nick Aldis Addresses Drew McIntyre’s Actions and Sets the Stage for Upcoming SmackDown Matches
SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis confronted Drew McIntyre following last week’s unexpected outburst. Aldis confirmed several matches for the night, including a singles bout between Alexa Bliss and Piper Niven. Additionally, The Miz will join forces with Carmelo Hayes to face Fraxiom, a team consisting of Nathan Frazer and Axiom, although unresolved tensions between Miz and Hayes remain noticeable.
Following a private discussion near Aldis’s office, Hayes pursued an opportunity for the United States Championship, with The Miz seemingly having already negotiated tag team arrangements behind the scenes. The episode will also revisit tag team rivalries, with The Street Profits slated to battle DIY once more.
This SmackDown episode is important for building momentum toward the Clash in Paris pay-per-view, specifically by furthering the developing feud between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes. McIntyre’s continued quest for championship gold remains a central storyline heading into the event.
