Tonight’s WWE SmackDown will feature notable changes as it serves as the final episode before SummerSlam 2025. The live event takes place at the Prudential Center in New Jersey, with key matches and moments tailored to excite the audience. One of the most significant adjustments is that the first 30 minutes of the show will air without any commercial interruptions, highlighting WWE’s focus on delivering an uninterrupted viewing experience.
This edition of SmackDown will showcase several important title defenses. Legado del Fantasma’s Angel and Berto are scheduled to defend the AAA Tag Team Championship in an open challenge, setting the stage for intense competition. Additionally, Giulia will put her Women’s United States Championship on the line against Zelina Vega, creating further anticipation ahead of the weekend’s big event.
Adding to the hype, Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena and Cody Rhodes will have a final in-person confrontation, heightening tensions before their forthcoming SummerSlam match. These developments ensure the episode is packed with high-stakes action and drama, aimed at keeping fans fully engaged.
Vince Russo Highlights Impactful Promo on Recent SmackDown
Former WWE writer Vince Russo recently commented on a promo segment involving Jelly Roll and Logan Paul that aired last week on SmackDown. Speaking on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s BroDown show, Russo expressed admiration for the energy they brought but also reflected on the broader implications for WWE’s roster.
“Here’s the problem. I enjoyed the hell out of this. There’s only one very small problem. These aren’t wrestlers, man. Honestly bro, Logan Paul and Jelly Roll are not wrestlers. Why are they better than the wrestlers? Can somebody tell me? When Logan Paul comes out and says, ‘I heard you all chanted, thank you, Logan.’ That’s brilliant. You talk about heel heat, that is brilliant. Like you said, Jelly Roll delivering. This was a very entertaining segment. The only problem is two out of the four are not wrestlers.” —Vince Russo, Former WWE Writer
Russo’s remarks highlight a growing discussion about the balance WWE must strike between established athletes and celebrity participants, especially as the company leverages external star power ahead of SummerSlam.
Anticipation Builds for Tonight’s SmackDown and SummerSlam 2025
With the commercial-free opening, multiple championship defenses, and high-profile encounters set for tonight, WWE is clearly positioning this SmackDown as a pivotal moment leading into SummerSlam 2025. Fans can expect heightened drama and surprises as the company aims to boost excitement and viewership ahead of the weekend’s marquee event in New Jersey.
As tensions rise between top stars like John Cena and Cody Rhodes, and Legado del Fantasma seeks to retain their titles, tonight’s SmackDown serves as a crucial platform for storylines that will culminate on the SummerSlam stage. The changes reflect WWE’s strategic approach to keeping momentum moving forward, ensuring that the blue brand remains a key driver of fan engagement during this critical period.
