Top five storylines to watch on WWE SmackDown (July 25, 2025); Cody Rhodes, SummerSlam build & more

(Courtesy : WWE)
WWE will keep building towards SummerSlam 2025 this week
With SummerSlam just 2 weeks away, WWE ramps up the intensity on the July 25 episode of SmackDown, broadcasting live from Cleveland’s Rocket Arena.
As the go-home show preceding “The Biggest Party of the Summer,” this edition promises to deliver explosive promos, high-stakes matches, and dramatic confrontations that will set the tone for the pay-per-view.
Superstars are jockeying for position, finalizing strategies, and looking to gain momentum to make an impactful statement when the SummerSlam spotlight shines on them.
WWE will continue to escalate storylines, add unexpected twists, and build anticipation for marquee matchups under the bright lights.
This week’s episode features title defenses, personal rivalries spilling into singles competition, celebrity clashes, and promos from some of the company’s top stars.
Fans can expect everything from heated faceoffs and emotional confrontations to potential surprise appearances and last-minute shifts to the SummerSlam card.
As tension builds and the stakes get higher, here are the top five storylines that will dominate the WWE SmackDown broadcast and shape the landscape going into WWE SummerSlam 2025.
5. A surprise appearance
We can expect an early appearance from John Cena. While he is advertised for next week’s SmackDown and SummerSlam, a surprise cameo to confront Cody Rhodes would add significant last-minute buzz to the retirement tour.
Finally, don’t be surprised if an official like Adam Pearce adds a “No Disqualification” or “Street Fight” stipulation to the Randy Orton & Jelly Roll vs Drew McIntyre & Logan Paul tag match to embrace the inevitable chaos and protect the celebrity participants.
Also Read: WWE SmackDown (July 25, 2025) Preview, match card, news, timings & where to watch
4. Cody Rhodes speaks up

While not scheduled for in-ring action, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes’ announced appearance suggests a pivotal promo or confrontation.
With the title picture clear, Rhodes could address John Cena. After a vicious attack last week he could be responding to recent provocations. Any developments involving “The American Nightmare” are bound to have ripple effects throughout the championship scene
3. Randy Orton & Jelly Roll vs Drew McIntyre & Logan Paul gets intense
Ahead of their blockbuster SummerSlam tag match, Randy Orton and country star Jelly Roll will share the stage with their rivals, Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul.
Last week’s chaotic confrontation, including a surprise desk spot on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, ensured emotions are at a fever pitch. Friday’s faceoff is expected to fuel the animosity, possibly leading to a physical altercation and adding further stakes to one of SummerSlam’s most talked-about celebrity matches.
Also Read: All superstars confirmed for WWE SmackDown (July 25, 2025)
2. Women’s Tag Team championship match intesifies
With the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships set to be defended at SummerSlam, personal rivalries spill into singles action as Alexa Bliss meets Roxanne Perez.
After Charlotte Flair managed to pin Raquel Rodriguez last week, the focus shifts to their respective partners. Both Bliss and Perez will be seeking momentum, and any ringside shenanigans could further escalate the tag title feud heading into SummerSlam. This contest has the potential to reshape alliances and strategies for the premium live event.
1. The Wyatt Sicks’ make their first title defense

The enigmatic stable The Wyatt Sicks, put their newly won WWE Tag Team titles on the line against Andrade and Rey Fenix.
After a dominant win against the Street Profits, Gacy and Lumis face a major test from the high-flying challengers who bested DIY, Motor City Machine Guns, and Fraxiom in a chaotic fatal four-way.
The intrigue lies in whether The Wyatt Sicks’ unsettling cohesion will withstand the creative and dynamic offense of Andrade & Fenix, both of whom are hungry for their first gold as a team.
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Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.
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