This report covers the outcomes and major developments from WWE Friday Night SmackDown on October 3, 2025. With the WWE Crown Jewel event just a week away in Perth, Australia, tensions are rising, especially regarding the relationships shaping the path to the title matches.
The spotlight tonight was on Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton as they teamed up against The Vision in the main event. Meanwhile, Sami Zayn defended his United States Championship against Aleister Black. Also featured was a heated contract signing between Tiffany Stratton and Stephanie Vaquer ahead of their Crown Jewel encounter.
Match Outcomes From WWE Friday Night SmackDown on October 3, 2025
Sami Zayn successfully retained his United States Championship by pinning Aleister Black. In tag team competition, Zaria and Sol Ruca defeated Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre by pinfall, highlighting NXT’s growing influence on the main roster.
Rey Fenix and Je’Von Evans secured a victory over Los Garzas, showcasing high-flying athleticism. The evening’s main event saw Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker triumph over the duo of Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton, adding fuel to the mounting tension between the partners.
Key Moments That Defined Friday Night SmackDown
The show opened with Cody Rhodes entering the ring, only to be immediately interrupted by Paul Heyman, who appeared alongside Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed. Randy Orton came out to balance the situation. Heyman addressed Orton directly, predicting that both he and Rhodes would lose to The Vision tonight. He warned Orton that after such a loss, he would see that Rhodes was capable of more as WWE Undisputed Champion and that their alliance was bound to collapse. Heyman insisted this was not just speculation but a “prophecy.”
Backstage, The Miz confronted Carmelo Hayes about his recent behavior. Hayes replied that their partnership was over and insisted he usually acted on instinct, signaling tension between the two.
During the contract signing between Stephanie Vaquer and Tiffany Stratton, Vaquer expressed respect but firmly stated she won’t be losing any time soon. Stratton confidently announced she planned to leave Perth as the victor. The segment ended with Kiana James and Giulia ambushing Stratton, offering her a “business proposal.” James claimed she could either make Vaquer a champion or reduce her to Stratton’s current state. Stratton fought back against James, while Vaquer tried to execute a Vaquer Bomb on Giulia, only for Giulia to escape, setting up their tag team match for the next episode.
Is Randy Orton About to Betray Cody Rhodes?
Despite the speculation fueled by Paul Heyman’s provocations, Randy Orton has not officially turned against Cody Rhodes yet. The duo appears united for now, but the undertone of impending betrayal is palpable. Orton’s glances toward Rhodes’ WWE Championship suggest growing ambition and possible conflict ahead.
Since his return, Orton has cast frequent looks at the WWE title, close on the heels of John Cena’s record 17-time championship reign. The uneasy atmosphere surrounding The Viper and his unpredictable nature hints that a dramatic shift in loyalty may be on the horizon, whether fans are prepared or not.
NXT Talent Continues to Impress on SmackDown
The future talent pipeline of WWE remains strong with NXT superstars making significant impacts on the main roster. On this night, Zaria and Sol Ruca turned in an impressive performance by defeating Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre, emphasizing their readiness for bigger stages.
Je’Von Evans added to the high-energy night with his dynamic skills in tag team action. Rumors are swirling that Oba Femi might soon make the jump to the main roster, further bolstering NXT’s influence. With an upcoming premium live event, Showdown, and collaborations with TNA, these emerging talents appear poised to be central figures for WWE’s future.
As the Crown Jewel event approaches, the stakes on WWE Friday Night SmackDown continue to escalate with alliances tested and rivalries intensifying. The possible fracture between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes could dramatically reshape the championship landscape. Fans will be watching closely to see how this turbulent storyline unfolds next week and beyond, especially with major titles and reputations on the line in Perth.
