Tonight’s WWE SmackDown will feature a key WWE SmackDown contract signing between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre ahead of their championship match at Wrestlepalooza. The event takes place in Toledo, Ohio, just before Wrestlepalooza begins in Indianapolis, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.
Contract Signing and Rhodes’ Return Spotlight SmackDown
After a notable absence, WWE Champion Cody Rhodes returned to the ring last week, engaging with McIntyre for the first time since McIntyre struck him with a Claymore on the announce table in August. This confrontation led to today’s contract signing, formalizing their upcoming title fight at Wrestlepalooza. Rhodes had been away filming his role as Guile in the forthcoming live-action Street Fighter movie produced by Legendary Entertainment. During his time away, Rhodes and his wife, Brandi, also welcomed their second child.
In his SmackDown return, Rhodes thwarted McIntyre’s attack on Randy Orton, reigniting their rivalry and building anticipation for their match.
Additional Matches and Special Appearances Set for SmackDown
Besides the contract signing, tonight’s show includes an exclusive interview with Brock Lesnar. Other highlights are United States Champion Sami Zayn defending his title against Carmelo Hayes, and the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, defending against Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre. These matches add further excitement to the Wrestlepalooza week as titles remain on the line.
Significance of Tonight’s Event for Wrestlepalooza
This contract signing is crucial as it solidifies the main event for Wrestlepalooza, intensifying the storyline between Rhodes and McIntyre. Taking place in Toledo the night before the pay-per-view in Indianapolis, SmackDown serves as an important lead-in, building momentum and setting the emotional tone for the championship bout. Fans can expect heightened tension to carry into the major event, where the WWE Championship will be contested.
