The WWE SmackDown September 2025 event on September 26 in Orlando saw Randy Orton make a sudden return, dramatically changing the night’s landscape. This development came amid intense action involving top champions and contenders, intensifying the ongoing rivalries and storylines leading up to Crown Jewel.
Highlights and Match Results from WWE SmackDown on September 26
The event featured several high-stakes matches, including a dramatic tag team contest where The Street Profits defeated The Miz and Carmelo Hayes by pinfall, locking in a number one contender spot for the Tag Team Championship. In another tag team bout, Giulia and Kiana James overcame Michin and B-Fab through pinfall victory. United States Champion Sami Zayn successfully defended his title against Je’Von Evans, while Tiffany Stratton retained her Women’s Championship by defeating Nia Jax and Jade Cargill, showcasing her dominance in the division.
The Night’s Most Defining Moments on WWE SmackDown
The show opened with Paul Heyman addressing the heated confrontation that occurred between WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins on Monday Night Raw. Heyman referenced The Vision, Roman Reigns, and the complex relationship with Brock Lesnar revealed at Wrestlepalooza, but was interrupted by Rhodes himself. Rhodes acknowledged Heyman’s cunning nature and questioned him about Brock Lesnar’s role, stirring tension in the ring. Suddenly, Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker emerged from the crowd and clashed with Rhodes. The sequence concluded with Randy Orton’s unexpected arrival, rescuing Rhodes and leveling the playing field, creating one of the night’s most electric moments.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss encountered challengers Zaria and Sol Ruca, who demanded a tag team championship opportunity. Flair and Bliss insisted the contenders prove themselves before earning a title shot, underscoring the competitive nature of the division.
Another intense segment involved Drew McIntyre, who appeared with an injured foot but voiced his frustration about being robbed of victory at Wrestlepalooza and accused WWE of corruption. This confrontation escalated when Jacob Fatu interrupted and pressured McIntyre to stop complaining. Their verbal standoff turned physical when McIntyre landed a Glasgow Kiss, only to be overpowered by Fatu, who forcefully removed McIntyre’s boot in a brutal display.
Je’Von Evans Shines in His Debut Challenge Against Sami Zayn
Je’Von Evans, a rising star from the NXT roster, made a remarkable impression answering Sami Zayn’s United States Championship Open Challenge. The match thrilled fans as both competitors delivered a fast-paced, high-flying showcase reminiscent of NXT’s Black and Gold era. Similar to John Cena’s famed Open Challenge, Zayn’s platform is proving instrumental in elevating new talent, with Evans standing out as one of the brightest prospects seeking to climb into WWE’s upper echelon.
Jacob Fatu’s Role as a Future Main Event Contender
Jacob Fatu’s recent return was met with immense enthusiasm, indicating his popularity and growing significance within WWE. His ongoing rivalry with Drew McIntyre appears designed to push him closer to the main event scene. Fans and insiders alike are eager to see Fatu ascend to challenge for a major title soon, as his talent and presence suggest he’s more than ready for that step. His rise promises a carefully crafted climb rather than a rushed booking, ensuring his eventual championship pursuits will be deserved and impactful.
How Randy Orton’s Return Impacts WWE’s Path Forward Toward Crown Jewel
Randy Orton’s surprise intervention during the chaotic battle between Rhodes, Reed, and Breakker significantly affects the current power dynamics within WWE SmackDown September 2025. His return not only saved the WWE Champion but also sent a message of new alliances and shifting loyalties amid the intense landscape leading into Crown Jewel. This development raises questions about future matchups and potential tag teams or rivalries that could emerge from this altered pecking order.
With other story arcs progressing—such as Tiffany Stratton’s continued reign at the top of the Women’s division, and Sami Zayn’s innovative Open Challenge platform spotlighting emerging stars like Je’Von Evans—WWE SmackDown maintains a volatile and gripping atmosphere. The confrontations between McIntyre and Fatu further add to the brewing tension, ensuring the weeks ahead will be charged with unpredictable outcomes and high stakes.
Overall, the events from this episode reaffirm WWE SmackDown September 2025’s role as a key battleground for championship ambitions and rising talent, setting the stage for a climactic buildup to Crown Jewel and beyond.
