WWE SmackDown airs Friday night as it makes a special stop in Chicago, Illinois—broadcasting live from the Allstate Arena. Here’s everything you need to know to catch the show, including start time, how to watch in the U.S. and abroad, and the confirmed lineup for tonight’s episode. Tickets are still available via Ticketmaster.
Find out everything we know about John Cena’s retirement match, including potential opponents!
How to Watch WWE SmackDown Live
- Date: Friday, September 5, 2025
- Start Time: 8:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CT / 5:00 PM PT in the U.S.
- TV Channel (U.S.): USA Network (live broadcast)
- Live Stream:
- U.S. Fans: Through streaming services that carry USA Network such as YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, and DirecTV Stream.
- International Fans: Available via Netflix in most regions.
WWE SmackDown Match Card (Updated for Sept 5, 2025)
- John Cena makes his final appearance in Chicago
- CM Punk addresses the WWE Universe
How to Watch Without Cable
If you’ve cut the cord, you can still watch SmackDown live:
- U.S. Streaming Providers: YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, DirecTV Stream—all include USA Network in many markets.
- International Viewers: SmackDown streams on Netflix in most regions—check your local lineup.
Will Brock Lesnar or AJ Lee Appear on SmackDown?
With SmackDown taking place in Chicago, speculation has swirled around possible surprise appearances. Two names fans continue to mention are Brock Lesnar and former Divas Champion AJ Lee, the wife of CM Punk. While WWE has not officially announced either for tonight’s show, the Chicago setting naturally fuels rumors of AJ Lee showing up alongside CM Punk.
Meanwhile, Lesnar’s absence from WWE TV in recent weeks keeps fans wondering if he could return at any moment. As of now, both remain unconfirmed, but there’s buzz that if they do show up, it could be to set the stage for their matches at Wrestlepalooza, taking place on Sunday, September 20, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. The event also marks WWE’s first premium live event to stream on ESPN.
What is Wrestlepalooza 2025?
Wrestlepalooza 2025 is WWE’s first-ever Wrestlepalooza and the first WWE premium live event to stream on ESPN in the U.S.
- Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
- Start Time: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
- Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse — Indianapolis, Indiana
- How to Watch: ESPN (U.S.)
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