The final episode of Friday Night SmackDown before WWE Backlash is here. SmackDown takes place at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida. Backlash is on Saturday, May 9, and is also in Florida, as it is being hosted in Tampa.
Last week, we saw Gunther make a surprise appearance and put WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes to sleep. It is likely that we will see Rhodes address Gunther at SmackDown. Tiffany Stratton is defending her Women’s United States Championship against Kiana James on this week’s episode of SmackDown.
Check out viewing information, predictions, and the advertised superstars for WWE’s upcoming episode of Friday Night SmackDown below. This article will be updated when matches and segments are added to the card.
How to Watch Friday Night SmackDown
Friday Night SmackDown airs live on the USA Network in the United States beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET.
WWE Friday Night SmackDown Full Card and Predictions
WWE Women’s United States Championship Match: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Kiana James
Two weeks ago, Tiffany Stratton beat Giulia to win the Women’s United States Championship. Now, Stratton will make her first title defense against Kiana James, who is Giulia’s friend. Stratton and James have faced each other three times in singles competition, with Stratton winning each time.
Tiffany Stratton vs. Kiana James Prediction: Tiffany Stratton retains the Women’s United States Championship against Kiana James.
Six-Woman Tag Team Match: Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Fatal Influence
Fatal Influence debuted on SmackDown two weeks ago and immediately made an impact. Jacy Jayne is coming off a victory against Charlotte Flair. Now, Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley is teaming with Flair and Bliss to take on Fatal Influence. On paper, this is a mismatch as the one team features three wrestlers who are or have been world champions.
Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Fatal Influence Prediction: Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss defeat Fatal Influence.
Singles Match: Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga
Talla Tonga is 2-0 in singles matches on SmackDown and is now taking on former World Champion Damian Priest. Tonga’s size and power will likely be too much for Priest to overcome in this contest.
Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga Prediction: Talla Tonga defeats Damian Priest.
Advertised for SmackDown
- On WWE.com, Drew McIntyre, Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill, Tiffany Stratton, Randy Orton, and Rhea Ripley are scheduled to appear on this week’s Friday Night SmackDown.
- Gunther will address Cody Rhodes after last week’s attack.
- Jacob Fatu is kicking off SmackDown before his title match against Roman Reigns.
Results from WWE Friday Night SmackDown (5/1/26)
- Jacy Jayne def. Charlotte Flair
- Damian Priest & R-Truth def. Fraxiom
- Cody Rhodes def. Ricky Saints
- Royce Keys def. Angel
- Paige & Brie Bella def. Nia Jax & Lash Legend
WWE Friday Night SmackDown FAQ
Where will the upcoming episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown take place?
The event is taking place at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida.
What time does WWE Friday Night SmackDown start?
Friday Night SmackDown starts at 8:00 p.m. ET.
How can I watch WWE Friday Night SmackDown?
Fans in the U.S. can view this event live on USA Network.
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