Top storylines to watch on WWE SmackDown tonight: WrestleMania 42 fallout; Cody Rhodes' injury & more
(Courtesy : WWE.com)
SmackDown after WrestleMania carries huge anticipation.
Tonight’s edition of Friday Night SmackDown takes over the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. The fallout show of WrestleMania 42 will feature the aftermath from the PLE, and similar to this week’s Raw, might feature main roster call-ups.
The show will also kick off the build towards Backlash 2026, teasing new feuds and storylines as new Champions emerge from last weekend.
Ahead of what is poised to be another blockbuster show tonight, let us take a look at the top four storylines that might be in play on tonight’s WWE SmackDown.
4. Women’s US title
Last week, Tiffany Stratton defeated Jordynne Grace to become the number one contender for the Women’s United States title. Despite support from fans, WWE did not book Giulia vs Tiffany for the US title at Mania and might decide to pull the trigger tonight.
WWE could also choose to book the match for Backlash, and with a potential return from injury for Chelsea Green and the presence of Jordynne Grace, things could get interesting.
Also Read: WWE SmackDown after WrestleMania 42: Preview, match card, start time & where to watch
3. Women’s Tag Team titles
One-half of the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, Paige, who made her return during Mania and replaced Nikki Bella in the Fatal Four-way match for the Tag Team titles to win the titles, is set to appear on the show. The stacked division has a new champion, and contenders will be lining up to challenge the new champion.
Additionally, how Nikki Bella reacts after she returns from injury and if the Bella Twins gang up on Paige or let Brie continue her title reign with Paige is also an intriguing aspect to keep an eye on.
2. Main roster call-ups
Monday’s episode of Raw featured multiple main roster call-ups from NXT, and tonight’s SmackDown is expected to follow a similar pattern.
Names such as Jacy Jayne and Blake Monroe are speculated to be moving up to the blue brand, which has been struggling with a lack of roster depth due to injuries and limited available talent.
1. Cody Rhodes’ injury
As per reports, Cody Rhodes is in concussion protocol, which means he is not cleared for the in-ring action. However, he is not believed to have suffered a broken orbital bone. Cody’s appearance during this Monday’s show only raised concerns when fans saw the extent of the eye injury.
Fans are speculating whether Rhodes is going to relinquish the title and what Randy Orton’s response will be after the loss. To find out, fans will have to tune in tonight at 8 PM ET.
When and where will SmackDown after WrestleMania 42 take place?
The April 24 edition of SmackDown will emanate from the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.
Who won in the main event of both nights of WrestleMania 42?
Cody Rhodes defeated Randy Orton to retain the Undisputed title, while Roman Reigns defeated CM Punk to capture the World Heavyweight title.
What is the next PLE after WrestleMania 42?
Backlash is the next PLE after Mania and is set for May 9th from the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida.
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Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.