Is WWE SmackDown tonight pre-taped (August 28, 2026)?
(Courtesy : WWE)
WWE SmackDown was taped in Ottawa ahead of tonight’s broadcast
Yes, WWE SmackDown for August 28, 2026, was pre-taped earlier this week in Ottawa, Canada. The episode was recorded at the Canadian Tire Centre on August 24, immediately following Monday Night Raw, meaning tonight’s broadcast will not be live.
The decision to tape SmackDown reportedly comes as WWE prepares for its upcoming South American Live Tour, which begins September 9 at the Coliseo General Rumiñahui in Quito, Ecuador. With WWE coming off a packed summer featuring two nights of SummerSlam 2026 and NXT Heatwave, the company’s higher-ups reportedly wanted the talent, staff and crew to have additional time to rest.
That means fans watching SmackDown tonight can expect the action from Ottawa, including the announced matchup between Tatum Paxley and Michin, along with several other major developments from the taping.
WWE SmackDown spoilers and results from August 24
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Kevin Owens opened the major developments by discussing how he believes Sami Zayn screwed him out of becoming Undisputed WWE Champion against CM Punk. Punk then confronted Owens before Gunther and Finn Balor interrupted, with both men claiming they deserved an opportunity after being wronged at SummerSlam.
The women’s division also featured prominently. WWE Women’s Champion Chelsea Green and Tiffany Stratton discussed recent events before facing The Irresistible Forces. Nia Jax and Lash Legend picked up the victory, with Jax pinning Green. Jacy Jayne also defeated Paige, while Nikki Bella attacked Paige following the match.
Cody Rhodes and Finn Balor had a backstage conversation, while Cody later addressed his upcoming hometown showdown with Randy Orton. Orton interrupted, leading to a heated exchange as both men were reminded that they cannot get physical before next week’s Sunday Night’s Main Event without risking their future title opportunities.
Tatum Paxley was interviewed ahead of her SmackDown debut, with Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss offering support. Paxley then defeated Michin in her first main-roster match. Rey Fenix also appeared in a promo segment, with Ricky Saints laying down a challenge to the AAA Cruiserweight Champion.
More segments featured on the taped episode
Blake Monroe addressed why she purposely botched her SmackDown in-ring debut before getting into a physical confrontation with Giulia. Trick Williams and Lil Yachty also discussed Yachty’s upcoming debut match before United States Champion Baron Corbin interrupted.
Damian Priest and R-Truth reflected on their loss to MFT before AAA World Tag Team Champions War Raiders confronted them over unfinished business. Kyoki, Shinsuke Nakamura and WWE Tag Team Champions MFT also appeared during the episode.
The main event centered on Gunther and Finn Balor, with Kevin Owens eventually joining the contest in an effort to earn a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. CM Punk and Sami Zayn became involved around ringside as tensions continued to escalate.
When and where will WWE SmackDown take place this week?
The August 28 edition of Friday Night SmackDown was pre-taped on Monday at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, and will not air live.
Is WWE SmackDown live tonight?
No. The August 28, 2026 episode was taped in Ottawa on August 24.
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