Top three returns that can happen on first WWE SmackDown of 2026

SmackDown is set to return to a three-hour format once again.

As the calendar flips to 2026, WWE looks to kick off the new year with momentum, mystery, and massive implications ahead of WrestleMania 42. The promotion will start the year with the January 2 edition of Friday Night SmackDown, which is set to emanate live from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

The show will return to a three-hour format from this Friday, and the promotion has announced some intriguing matchups including an eight-woman tag team match and an Ambulance match.

Multiple big names are being advertised for the show, including Cody Rhodes, Tiffany Stratton, Randy Orton, and Jade Cargill. However, WWE could be planning some more exciting returns for the show, making it a memorable experience for fans.

3. Jacob Fatu

‘The Samoan Werewolf’ Jacob Fatu has been absent from WWE programming as he was written off TV in October. Bodyslam reports that WWE plans to give Fatu a major push in 2026. Originally set to begin towards the end of 2025, the push was delayed due to his injury and will now kick off when he returns in early 2026. According to the report, Fatu is expected to be back on WWE television at the start of 2026.

Fatu could make his return on the first show and reveal the assailant who attacked him backstage, forcing him out of action. Notably, fans are predicting his return during the Three Stages of Hell match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, as many believe McIntyre to be the attacker.

Also Read: WWE SmackDown Preview (January 2, 2026): Match card, news, timings & where to watch

2. Randy Orton

‘The Viper’ Randy Orton has been missing from WWE programming since October, making only a few brief appearances in 2025. He was advertised to return on the SmackDown following Survivor Series, but did not make his comeback as expected.

SmackDown has been suffering from the scarcity of stars, and the return to the three-hour format direly needs stars to fill the show. Orton can make his return tonight and set up a feud ahead of WrestleMania 42.

1. Tiffany Stratton

Tiffany Stratton has been off WWE programming since losing the Women’s Title to Jade Cargill on November’s Saturday Night’s Main Event. Stratton has been on a well-deserved break after having a successful 2025, with multiple title defenses and wins.

Meanwhile, Jade Cargill has not defended the title even once since November and has been feuding with Michin. Jade is set to take on Michin on this week’s SmackDown.

However, with reports of Michin’s injury, the match might be pulled from the card, and with the empty women’s division, WWE likely has no better option than Stratton’s return. Stratton could return to reignite the feud and kick off her road to the title.

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