This week on WWE SmackDown, the highly anticipated WWE SmackDown megastar return took place, electrifying the live audience and viewers at home. On January 2, multiple superstars returned, but it was Shinsuke Nakamura’s appearance that captured the spotlight, promising intriguing developments for the blue brand.
Major Names Return to WWE SmackDown
The January 2 edition of WWE SmackDown was packed with the much-awaited returns of several celebrated wrestlers. Randy Orton, Matt Cardona, Jordynne Grace, Trick Williams, and Sami Zayn each made notable entrances, contributing to an episode pulsating with excitement and unpredictability. However, one megastar’s return was especially prominent—Shinsuke Nakamura, whose presence energized the WWE Universe and stirred speculation about upcoming rivalries and title matches.
The United States Championship Match Intensifies the Show
A central highlight of the evening was the United States Open Challenge, mounted by new champion Carmelo Hayes. Having claimed the title from Ilja Dragunov, Hayes put his new championship on the line against Johnny Gargano, one half of the tag team #DIY. The ensuing match was an immediate spectacle, with both competitors delivering a highly physical, fast-paced performance and Gargano suffering a nosebleed from the match’s intensity. Despite these challenges, Hayes retained the title, securing victory after executing his signature First 48 followed by Nothing But Net.
Backstage Encounter: Shinsuke Nakamura Confronts Tama Tonga
After the intense championship match, attention swiftly turned to the backstage area. Tama Tonga, a notable presence, was seen observing the outcome when Shinsuke Nakamura unexpectedly made his entrance by his side. Their exchange was held in Japanese, further drawing viewers into the moment and hinting at future storylines involving both the current scene and the United States Championship.
“Tama. If you are aiming for the championship, we will cross paths again somewhere.”
– Shinsuke Nakamura
“You have quite a mouth on you, don’t you!”
– Shinsuke Nakamura
Implications for the United States Championship Scene
The brief but charged confrontation between Nakamura and Tama Tonga leaves the WWE Universe speculating about the future of the United States Championship. It remains uncertain whether Nakamura will set his sights directly on challenging Carmelo Hayes or if a member of MFT, possibly Tama Tonga, will emerge as the next contender for the title. With multiple superstars making their returns and tensions escalating, the path to the next championship storyline appears more unpredictable and intense than ever.
As the dust settles on this dramatic episode, fans and analysts alike remain eager to see how these confrontations and comebacks shape the WWE SmackDown landscape in the weeks to come.
Shinsuke Nakamura and Tama Tonga speak in Japanese.
Shinsuke Nakamura: “Tama. If you are aiming for the championship, we will cross paths again somewhere.”
Tama Tonga: “Shut up… you bastard!”
Shinsuke Nakamura: “You have quite a mouth on you, don’t you!”#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/X1vWWjcAoM
— meraWRESTLING (@meraWRESTLING) January 3, 2026
