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SmackDown Preview: Cody Rhodes Looks to Spoil Randy Orton's Homecoming on the Road to WrestleMania | Bully Ray Suggests Bron Breakker Adopt Steiner Name | WWE Raw Preview: Reigns and Fatu Contract Signing, Plus More - May 4, 2026 | WWE Releases Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, and JC Mateo | WWE Departures: New Day and MFT Members | Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods Depart WWE | IYO SKY Pays Tribute to Kairi Sane Following WWE Exit | WWE Talent Departures: Nikki Cross, Zoey Stark, and More | Jacob Fatu Defeats Drew McIntyre in Brutal Unsanctioned Match at WrestleMania 42 | SmackDown Preview: Cody Rhodes Looks to Spoil Randy Orton's Homecoming on the Road to WrestleMania | Bully Ray Suggests Bron Breakker Adopt Steiner Name | WWE Raw Preview: Reigns and Fatu Contract Signing, Plus More - May 4, 2026 | WWE Releases Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, and JC Mateo | WWE Departures: New Day and MFT Members | Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods Depart WWE | IYO SKY Pays Tribute to Kairi Sane Following WWE Exit | WWE Talent Departures: Nikki Cross, Zoey Stark, and More | Jacob Fatu Defeats Drew McIntyre in Brutal Unsanctioned Match at WrestleMania 42

Wrestling / SmackDown

SmackDown Preview: Cody Rhodes Looks to Spoil Randy Orton's Homecoming on the Road to WrestleMania

Get ready for an action-packed SmackDown as Cody Rhodes aims to disrupt Randy Orton's return to his hometown of St. Louis. With WrestleMania 42 on the horizon, the tension between Rhodes and Orton is at an all-time high.

SmackDown: April 3, 2026
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SmackDown Preview: Cody Rhodes Looks to Spoil Randy Orton's Homecoming on the Road to WrestleMania Image via WWE

Key Insights

  • Cody Rhodes is set to confront Randy Orton in his hometown, escalating their WrestleMania feud.
  • Rhea Ripley returns to SmackDown to face Michin after a previous attack.
  • Sami Zayn will appear as the new United States Champion.
  • Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre are scheduled to address their upcoming Unsanctioned Match at WrestleMania.

In-Depth Analysis

The April 3, 2026, edition of SmackDown promises high stakes and intense rivalries as WrestleMania approaches. Cody Rhodes, after an explosive return, is determined to spoil Randy Orton’s homecoming. Orton, fueled by recent attacks, presents a formidable challenge. Rhea Ripley's return against Michin adds another layer of intrigue, testing her resolve before a potential title challenge. Sami Zayn's celebration as the United States Champion marks a new chapter, while the impending clash between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre guarantees a brutal showdown.

  • **Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton:** Expect a volatile confrontation as Rhodes seeks retribution against Orton.
  • **Rhea Ripley vs. Michin:** Ripley aims to dominate Michin, proving her readiness for WrestleMania.
  • **Sami Zayn's Return:** Zayn's appearance sets the stage for his title defense against Trick Williams at WrestleMania.
  • **Fatu and McIntyre:** Anticipate a heated exchange as they gear up for their Unsanctioned Match.

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FAQ

When and where is this episode of SmackDown?

Friday, April 3, 2026, at 8 ET/7 CT on USA, from the Enterprise Center in St. Louis.

What's at stake for Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton?

Their escalating feud leads to a highly anticipated WrestleMania 42 match.

Takeaways

  • The Cody Rhodes-Randy Orton rivalry is reaching a boiling point.
  • Rhea Ripley seeks to reassert her dominance on SmackDown.
  • Sami Zayn prepares for a significant title defense.
  • The Jacob Fatu-Drew McIntyre feud promises extreme action.

Discussion

What are your predictions for SmackDown? Will Cody Rhodes succeed in spoiling Orton's homecoming? Share your thoughts below!

Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Sources

SmackDown: April 3, 2026 WWE SmackDown live updates, results and grades as Cody Rhodes tries to spoil Randy Orton's homecoming How to watch WWE Friday Night SmackDown! free live stream tonight

Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

All content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Yanuki makes no representations or warranties regarding the reliability or completeness of the information.

This article may include links to external sources for further context. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement.

Always do your own research (DYOR) before making any decisions based on the information presented.

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