SmackDown May 22, 2026: Gunther Responds to Cody Rhodes' Attack
A look back at the key events from WWE SmackDown on May 22, 2026, including Gunther's reaction to Cody Rhodes' assault, Rhea Ripley's respon...
John Cena’s final Chicago appearance marks the end of an era at the Allstate Arena, where he began his WWE journey.
Sami Zayn returns to SmackDown as the new United States Champion after defeating Solo Sikoa.
Damian Priest seeks retribution against Aleister Black for a previous injury.
CM Punk, though a Raw Superstar, is announced to appear in his hometown of Chicago.
Potential appearance by Brock Lesnar looms, possibly setting up a final showdown with John Cena at Wrestlepalooza.
Why this matters: This episode sets the stage for future storylines and potential matchups, especially with Wrestlepalooza on the horizon. Cena’s farewell adds emotional weight, while the outcomes of Zayn and Priest’s stories will shape the championship landscape.
John Cena’s final appearance in Chicago is a significant event, honoring his legacy, which started at the Allstate Arena over 23 years ago. Expect an emotional tribute and potential setup for his future engagements, possibly a final match against Brock Lesnar at Wrestlepalooza. This ties into wrestling’s rich history of honoring its legends while setting up future storylines.
Sami Zayn’s return as the United States Champion adds a new dynamic to SmackDown. His victory over Solo Sikoa signifies a potential shift in the brand’s power balance. Keep an eye on how Zayn’s reign will influence other storylines and rivalries. His journey highlights the importance of perseverance and seizing opportunities.
The collision between Damian Priest and Aleister Black is fueled by Priest’s desire for revenge. This match will likely be intense, showcasing both superstars’ capabilities and potentially setting up a longer feud. This narrative illustrates the drama and personal stakes involved in professional wrestling.
CM Punk’s presence in his hometown adds intrigue, especially given his rivalry with Seth Rollins on Raw. Punk’s interactions could lead to unexpected alliances or confrontations, blurring the lines between brands. His self-proclaimed "Best in the World" persona always draws attention and drama.
"WWE Friday Night SmackDown" airs live on Fridays at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on USA Network. Available via streaming on Fubo TV &ref=yanuki.com, Peacock &ref=yanuki.com, YouTube TV &ref=yanuki.com, DirecTV &ref=yanuki.com, and Hulu+ Live TV &ref=yanuki.com. If outside the USA, use a VPN to access these services.
Q: Where is SmackDown airing?
SmackDown airs on USA Network.
Q: How can I stream SmackDown?
You can stream it on Fubo TV &ref=yanuki.com, Peacock &ref=yanuki.com, YouTube TV &ref=yanuki.com, DirecTV &ref=yanuki.com, and Hulu+ Live TV &ref=yanuki.com.
Q: What are the main events to watch for?
John Cena’s final Chicago appearance, Sami Zayn’s return as United States Champion, and Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black.
John Cena’s farewell is a must-see moment, marking the end of an era.
Sami Zayn’s championship return signifies a new chapter for the superstar.
The Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black match promises intense action and personal stakes.
Keep an eye on CM Punk’s appearance for potential storyline crossovers.
The looming presence of Brock Lesnar adds intrigue for a possible Wrestlepalooza showdown.
What are your predictions for John Cena’s final appearance? How will Sami Zayn fare as the new United States Champion? Share your thoughts and predictions below!
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