Lineup for WWE SmackDown (August 28, 2026): Cody Rhodes & Randy Orton to appear, SNME build & more
(Courtesy : WWE)
The road to SNME rolls on with a stacked, pre-taped go-home show.
WWE continues building towards its historic first-ever Sunday Night’s Main Event, with the promotion using this week’s SmackDown to further several key storylines ahead of the September 6 show in Atlanta.
Notably, this Friday’s episode was not broadcast live. It was pre-taped this Monday following Raw, and will air from the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. With SNME on the horizon and Money in the Bank also approaching, here is a detailed lineup for tonight’s show.
What’s in store for tonight’s WWE SmackDown?
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Multiple top names are advertised for the show, including Kevin Owens, Finn Balor, Gunther, Chelsea Green, Tiffany Stratton, Cody Rhodes, and Randy Orton, among others.
Kevin Owens kicks off the show with a promo before CM Punk, Gunther, and Finn Balor all get involved, setting up a #1 contender’s match between Owens, Gunther, and Balor. Elsewhere, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton continue the build towards SNME with an in-ring segment, while Tatum Paxley and Michin collide in a confirmed singles match.
- Tatum Paxley vs Michin
- Cody Rhodes & Randy Orton to appear
- Kevin Owens vs Gunther vs Finn Balor – #1 contender’s match
- The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax & Lash Legend) vs Tiffany Stratton & Chelsea Green
- Jacy Jayne vs Paige
- SNME build continues
Returns expected on tonight’s WWE SmackDown
Nikki Bella factors into tonight’s show, returning to attack Paige following the Jacy Jayne match. Expect the go-home build towards SNME to bring further appearances from top stars as WWE sets its card for Atlanta.
When and where will WWE SmackDown take place this week?
The August 28 edition of Friday Night SmackDown has been pre-taped on Monday at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, and will not air live.
When and where will the upcoming SNME take place?
The upcoming Sunday Night’s Main Event is scheduled for Sunday, September 6, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. It will be WWE’s first-ever Sunday Night’s Main Event.
When and where will Money in the Bank 2026 take place?
The 2026 edition of Money in the Bank is set for October 10, 2026, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.
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