Top three massive returns that might be in store on WWE SmackDown (September 5, 2025)

This week’s SmackDown will emanate from Chicago!

In the aftermath of the Clash in Paris, which concluded last Sunday, the dust seemed to settle for the WWE Universe, but the fallout show of Raw proved that more turmoil is awaiting them on the fallout show of Friday Night SmackDown.

The September 5 fallout episode of SmackDown is set to air from the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Multiple big names, including John Cena, CM Punk, Tiffany Stratton, and Randy Orton, are being advertised for the show.

Additionally, John Cena and CM Punk are also confirmed for an appearance on the show, making it a star-studded affair. However, fans in Chicago might be in store for more surprises with major returns. Here we take a look at such top three returns that might be in store for WWE fans.

3. Cody Rhodes

Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes has been absent from WWE programming since the August 8 episode of SmackDown, where Drew McIntyre claymored him through the table. Rhodes was seemingly written off TV to film the Street Fight movie.

As per reports, Cody is set to defend the title against McIntyre, and the Champion might return tonight to confront Drew and continue his feud leading up to Wrestlepalooza.

Also Read: All matches announced for WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025 so far

2. Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar made his return in the final moments of SummerSlam Night 2 and attacked John Cena, taking him down with an F5. However, he has been absent from WWE programming since then.

With reports of a main event clash between the two at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza, and Cena being confirmed for the show, Lesnar might shock the fans again by making his return to attack the 17-time World Champion and setting up their eventual showdown.

1. AJ Lee

Following this week’s WWE Raw and the fiery segment between Becky Lynch and CM Punk, the latter, in a backstage segment, confirmed his appearance for the show, which sparked AJ Lee’s return rumors, which have been rife since Becky Lynch joined Seth Rollins and aided him in pinning Punk at Clash in Paris.

Multiple outlets are now suggesting that Lee will return as soon as this week. Fightful noted that WWE is hopeful her comeback won’t just be a one-off appearance, but even if it is, they would still consider it a major win.

Bryan Alvarez has gone further, saying flat-out that AJ Lee is returning and will wrestle alongside Punk against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalooza on September 20. Lee might make her return similar to Punk in Chicago, and kick off the feud with Rollins and Lynch.

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