The September 12, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown showcased intense moments and marquee matches live from the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia, building anticipation for the upcoming Wrestlepalooza pay-per-view. Featuring top stars like Brock Lesnar and Cody Rhodes, the show delivered dramatic confrontations and surprising teases that left fans on edge.
Brock Lesnar Returns with a Dramatic Opening and Unexpected Wardrobe Mishap
Brock Lesnar’s official return to WWE SmackDown ignited a divided reaction from the audience, as some cheered his comeback while many others chanted negative slogans due to his recent attack on John Cena. Before Lesnar could address the crowd, R-Truth interrupted, attempting a bold welcome despite Lesnar’s dismissive retort to “shut up.”
‘The Beast Incarnate’ expressed confusion over R-Truth’s presence, not recognizing him and demanding a valid reason for the interruption. R-Truth declared his defense of John Cena, referring to Cena as his “childhood hero” and “older brother” for over 25 years. This revelation piqued Lesnar’s interest, prompting a humorous exchange where R-Truth admitted his name was actually Ron Cena, inciting loud cheers from the crowd.
With this revelation, the tension escalated as Lesnar questioned why Ron Cena was there without knowledge of John Cena’s location. Ron responded that Cena has “gone crazy” this year and is now gearing up to confront Lesnar, indicating a major showdown ahead. The situation quickly erupted when Lesnar attacked Ron Cena with a powerful F5, ripping his pants in the process, and ended the segment by laughing and joking about the unexpected “blue underwear” revealed.
Sami Zayn Announces His US Open Challenge Opponent: Rey Fenix
Behind the scenes, Sami Zayn revealed he had permission from John Cena to continue his US Open Challenge, intending to excite the live audience regardless of the outcome. The mystery challenger was soon unveiled as the high-flying Rey Fenix, setting the stage for an electrifying match.
Solo Sikoa Issues a Dire Warning to Sami Zayn
A prerecorded message from Solo Sikoa followed, in which he expressed anger towards Sami Zayn for profiting from a title Solo himself had wrested from Jacob Fatu. Solo emphasized the sacrifices he made to win the championship and threatened to pursue Zayn relentlessly in the weeks ahead.
An Intense US Open Challenge Match Between Sami Zayn and Rey Fenix
The match between champion Sami Zayn and challenger Rey Fenix proved to be a fast-paced spectacle. Fenix brought a relentless high-flying assault, using quick strikes and maneuvers that kept Zayn on the defensive. Zayn attempted to shift momentum with creative moves but was repeatedly countered by Fenix’s agility.
Fenix delivered a springboard kick and a suicide dive, nearly pinning Zayn on multiple occasions, and kept the pressure with successive top-rope attacks. Despite the challenger’s strong showing, Zayn managed to counter a move into a Blue Thunder Bomb and prepared to finish with the Helluva Kick. Fenix nearly upset the champion by countering the finisher, but after a tense exchange, Zayn connected with the Helluva Kick to retain the US Championship.
Giulia and Kiana James Launch an Attack on B-Fab, Michin Intervenes
B-Fab was heading to the ring when Kiana James and Giulia assaulted her, with James knocking B-Fab down and Giulia delivering a kick that sent her crashing to ringside. The duo continued their onslaught inside the ring, but Michin’s entrance changed the tide. Armed with a kendo stick, Michin swung forcefully at James and Giulia, prompting them to retreat quickly and ending the chaotic encounter.
Aleister Black Embraces the Role of Violence’s Messenger
In a previously recorded promo, Aleister Black explained his calculated actions from the prior week, stating he had instilled “doubt” like a poison in Damian Priest that would take effect in time. Black warned that though Priest might attempt retaliation, the consequences of violence are cyclical, and he is now choosing to be its “prophet.”
Nia Jax Intervenes in a Fierce Bout Between Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill
The contest between Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill unfolded with a series of hard-hitting exchanges and inventive counters. Stratton scored a two-count early with a Swanton Bomb, while Cargill responded by slamming Stratton face-first onto the ring apron. The match continued with back-and-forth momentum, highlighted by Cargill’s missed Moonsault and subsequent collision through the barricade, resulting in a double count.
Just as the battle seemed to reach its climax, Nia Jax stormed the ring, attacking both competitors decisively and signaling her intent to challenge for the WWE Women’s Championship.
The Miz Expresses Doubts Over Carmelo’s US Title Aspirations
In the backstage area, Sami Zayn appeared enthusiastic after his match and endorsed continuing the open challenge. Carmelo approached Zayn for a future shot at the US Championship, a request Zayn accepted. Meanwhile, The Miz voiced frustrations toward Carmelo for taking such liberties, expressing skepticism about Carmelo’s readiness for the US title and suggesting he focus instead on the Tag Team Championships. Carmelo remained confident, leaving Miz visibly annoyed.
Cody Rhodes Returns to Support Randy Orton Against Drew McIntyre
The main event featured a brutal encounter between Randy Orton and Drew McIntyre, punctuated by lingering tension from previous weeks. Orton methodically targeted McIntyre’s body but suffered a knee injury, enabling McIntyre to trap him in a painful figure-four leg lock. Orton escaped the submission only to be repeatedly punished with suplexes and a spine-first slam into the announce table by McIntyre.
Although Orton attempted a comeback, McIntyre interrupted with Claymore kicks, eventually securing a victory after distracting the referee. Post-match, McIntyre positioned Orton against the announcer’s desk for another decisive Claymore, only for Cody Rhodes to intervene, coming to Orton’s aid. Rhodes boldly announced he will face McIntyre at Wrestlepalooza to settle their ongoing conflict.
This episode of WWE SmackDown delivered high stakes, shocking moments, and set intense narratives for Wrestlepalooza, keeping fans eager for the pay-per-view’s explosive showdowns.
