WWE SmackDown is set for a blockbuster episode in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) as the final show before the 2026 Royal Rumble. With the road to WrestleMania 42 heating up, all eyes are on the superstars looking to grab their moment under the spotlight. Expect high drama, face-offs, and surprise twists as some of WWE’s biggest names make their final statements before the chaos of the Royal Rumble begins.
McIntyre and Zayn Face Off Before Their Title Match
Drew McIntyre will come face-to-face with Sami Zayn just before they clash for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble. Zayn earned this opportunity by defeating Randy Orton, Damian Priest, and Trick Williams in a Fatal 4-Way.
However, the odds don’t favour Zayn — he’s never beaten McIntyre on TV. In fact, McIntyre holds an 11-0 record against him. The Scottish Warrior has dominated this rivalry, and on SmackDown, he’ll likely remind Zayn just how one-sided their history has been.
Will Zayn finally rise to the occasion, or will McIntyre’s mental edge prove too strong ahead of Saturday’s big match?
Carmelo Hayes Issues Another Open Challenge
Carmelo Hayes, the United States Champion, is not slowing down. He’s already defended the title successfully against Johnny Gargano, Shinsuke Nakamura, Leon Slater, and Ilja Dragunov.
Tonight, he’s giving another superstar a shot in his United States Title Open Challenge. With many top wrestlers aiming for Royal Rumble glory, someone hungry enough may step up to dethrone Hayes.
Fans are eager to see who’ll answer the call — and whether Hayes can keep his hot streak alive.
Cody Rhodes vs. Jacob Fatu Heats Up
Cody Rhodes is on a mission to become world champion again, but Jacob Fatu stands in his way. The two have been at each other’s throats since Fatu interfered in the brutal 3 Stages of Hell Match earlier this month.
Since then, their feud has exploded, with brawls and chaos wherever they meet. Expect both men to make their presence felt on SmackDown ahead of the Royal Rumble. These two don’t just want to win — they want to destroy each other.
Big Names Lined Up for the Men’s Royal Rumble
The Men’s Royal Rumble is stacked with former champions and rising stars alike:
- Randy Orton is chasing a record-tying 15th world title.
- Damian Priest wants to climb back to the top.
- Trick Williams and Solo Sikoa are building their reputations fast.
All of them are looking to steal the spotlight on SmackDown before the big match. Expect intense promos, surprise attacks, or even a few unofficial previews.
Women’s Royal Rumble Builds Momentum
The Women’s Royal Rumble is shaping up to be just as competitive. Stars from the blue brand already confirmed include:
- Charlotte Flair
- Alexa Bliss
- Jordynne Grace
- Chelsea Green
- Lash Legend
- Nia Jax
- Giulia
Grace has already stepped up to Jade Cargill, the current WWE Women’s Champion. Fans are hoping for another fiery face-off between the two before the Rumble begins.
New Tag Team Champions Shake Things Up
Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga recently became the new WWE Tag Team Champions by defeating Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis from The Wyatt Sicks. Sikoa’s goal has been to take down Uncle Howdy’s faction, and this win was a big step forward.
But with The Wyatt Sicks hungry for revenge, SmackDown could see the next chapter of this dark rivalry unfold.
WWE SmackDown Riyadh – Match Card and Details
Match Card:
- Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn face-to-face
- Carmelo Hayes (c) vs ??? — United States Title Open Challenge
Broadcast Info:
- TV Channel: USA Network
- Streaming: Fubo TV, Peacock, YouTube TV, DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV
- Start Time: 8 PM EST / 5 PM PST
- Location: KAFD, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
