WWE SmackDown is set to air live on Friday, September 5, from the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois. This episode marks the blue brand’s first broadcast following the Clash in Paris pay-per-view, and fans can anticipate significant roster changes ahead of the inaugural Wrestlepalooza event, which is just over two weeks away, according to Sports Illustrated.
Event Context
The 17-time world champion is poised to make his final appearance in Chicago, where he famously debuted in WWE over 23 years ago against Hall of Famer Kurt Angle.
As part of his ongoing feud with Seth Rollins, CM Punk is scheduled to appear on this week’s SmackDown. This follows Rollins’ victory over Punk, Jey Uso, and LA Knight in a fatal four-way match for the World Heavyweight Championship at Clash in Paris.
During this week’s WWE RAW, Punk made it clear that he would not retaliate against Becky Lynch, but warned that she would regret slapping him.
Rumors suggest that WWE fans might witness AJ Lee’s return to challenge Lynch, sparked by a recent deleted post from WWE teasing her in-ring comeback at Wrestlepalooza.
While no specific matches have been announced, WWE has promoted the appearances of Randy Orton, Tiffany Stratton, and Jade Cargill for the SmackDown event on Friday.
This event will take place at Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois, kicking off at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT.
Fans in the United States can catch WWE events live on the USA Network, as well as stream them via Fubo TV, Peacock, YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and DirecTV.
Currently, WWE has not confirmed whether the former WWE champion will appear in tonight’s episode.
WWE SmackDown: What to expect?
WWE fans won’t want to miss Friday night’s SmackDown episode, as it sets the stage for the upcoming premium live event. This week promises appearances from several high-profile superstars.
John Cena is poised for a significant moment as he prepares to say goodbye to the venue where his WWE journey began, with over 16,000 fans expected to cheer for the “Greatest of All Time,” according to Sports Illustrated.
A key point of curiosity for fans is whether Brock Lesnar will make an appearance at tonight’s SmackDown. Lesnar made a dramatic return at SummerSlam, targeting Cena with an F-5 in New Jersey.
In retaliation, Cena has issued a challenge to Lesnar, expressing his readiness to face him anytime. The potential for a final showdown between the two superstars at Wrestlepalooza is high, especially as Cena plans to retire from WWE at the end of this year.
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