Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown is headlined by a high-stakes Undisputed title match between current title holder Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. Rhodes and McIntyre will face each other in a Three Stages of Hell match. This edition of SmackDown is taking place on January 9 at the Uber Arena in Berlin, Germany. The last WWE event in Germany was Bash in Berlin in August 2024.
Before this highly anticipated episode of Friday Night SmackDown, we detail viewing information and predictions for the card.
How to Watch Friday Night SmackDown
Friday Night SmackDown airs live on USA Network in the United States beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET.
WWE Friday Night SmackDown Full Card and Predictions
Three Stages of Hell Match for the WWE Undisputed Heavyweight Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Drew McIntyre
Monday Night Raw featured an excellent championship match between CM Punk and Bron Breakker. SmackDown has another highly anticipated title match headlining the card, with Cody Rhodes defending his Undisputed title against Drew McIntyre. This is the fifth singles match between Rhodes and McIntyre in their careers. This is a Three Stages of Hell match with the first being a singles match, followed by a falls-count-anywhere match, and finally a steel-cage match.
This is the fourth time Rhodes has defended his title against McIntyre in the last four months. Rhodes is 2-1 against McIntyre in those matches, with the Scottish Warriors’ lone victory coming via DQ.
McIntyre last won gold at WrestleMania XL, but his reign was short-lived as Damien Priest quickly cashed in his Money in the Bank contract. The last time McIntyre had a title reign longer than a day was in 2021. Since then, McIntyre has gotten close and, each time, has rebuilt himself en route to a title match. The current-day McIntyre might be the most dangerous version of himself yet. He has been reckless, physical, and unpredictable, bringing out an unhinged version of Rhodes that we hadn’t seen before.
Rhodes calls himself QB1, and it isn’t just a self-proclaimed nickname. It is a title that he has earned. Since becoming the one to dethrone Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL, he has been the clear-cut face of WWE. Rhodes is a big-match wrestler; when the lights get the brightest, and the stakes are raised, The American Nightmare always elevates his game.
Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre Prediction: Cody Rhodes retains the Undisputed title against Drew McIntyre.
Singles Match: Trick Williams vs. Rey Fenix
Trick Williams is now an official member of SmackDown and enters the main roster as one of the most accomplished wrestlers to come from NXT. Williams is a former two-time NXT Champion, TNA Champion, and North American Champion. Although Rey Fenix is an excellent competitor, this match will likely be a showcase for Williams in dominant fashion.
Trick Williams vs. Rey Fenix Prediction: Trick Williams picks up the victory against Rey Fenix.
Eight-Man Tag Team Match: The Wyatt Sicks vs. The MFTs
Over the last month, a heated rivalry between the MFTs and the Wyatt Sicks has been heating up. The first matchup between the two teams was a tag team match on December 15, which ended in a no-contest. Solo Sikoa has revamped his group, and they appear more dangerous than ever. But now the two groups will face off in an eight-man tag team match. This will likely be a close battle, but I give the edge to the fan favorites, The Wyatt Sicks, as they have been a cohesive group for longer.
The Wyatt Sicks vs. The MFTs Prediction: The Wyatt Sicks defeat The MFTs.
WWE Friday Night SmackDown FAQ
Where will the upcoming episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown take place?
The event is taking place at the Uber Arena in Berlin, Germany.
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 the USA Network.
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