Top five storylines to watch out for on WWE SmackDown tonight (May 9, 2025)

Tonight’s show of SmackDown will set the final stage for Backlash!

The 2025 edition of Backlash is a day away, and WWE is gearing up to deliver its first Premium Live Event (PLE) since WrestleMania 41, but first, the stage will be set as opponents will meet for the final time on tonight’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown.

This week’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown will air live from the Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio. Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena is set for an appearance ahead of his first title defense, while Jade Cargill and Nia Jax will battle for the number one contender spot for the WWE Women’s title.

Damian Priest and LA Knight will team up to battle Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa in a tag team match. Ahead of tonight’s show, here are the top five storylines that fans need to watch out for on the May 9, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown.

5. Aleister Black – Carmelo Hayes

On last week’s show, Aleister Black in his in-ring return decimated The Miz, delivering the black mass to pick up the win despite Carmelo Hayes‘ interference.

However, after the match, Black came face-to-face with Hayes, who was going to check up on the Miz. The subtle tease has left many fans wanting for more, and the promotion might follow suit tonight.

Also Read: WWE SmackDown (May 9, 2025) Preview, match card, news, timings & telecast details

4. Piper Niven – Chelsea Green

Chelsea Green has been mourning since losing the Women’s United States title at the hands of Zelina Vega, while her ‘Secret Hervice’ (Alba Fyre & Piper Niven) has been by her side, cracks have started to show.

Niven was granted the opportunity to battle Vega in a singles match, and a win would guarantee her a title shot against Vega. While Niven lost the match, Green’s frustration might lead to an outburst on Niven.

3. WWE Women’s Championship

Following Tiffany Stratton’s win over Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 41, where she retained the WWE Women’s title, the promotion is now looking for her next challenger.

Jade Cargill and Nia Jax are set to battle in a number one contenders match, with the winner likely challenging Stratton at Saturday Night’s Main Event later this month.

2. John Cena appears

Randy Orton not only had pretty harsh words for John Cena last week, but he also vowed to punt kick Cena through the St. Louis Gateway Arch. The Champion will likely not take this threat lightly and will respond tonight in his appearance.

Also Read: All superstars confirmed for WWE SmackDown (May 9, 2025)

1. Backlash build-up

The go-home show of SmackDown will feature segments and matches building up hype for Backlash. The promotion has already announced John Cena’s appearance along with a tag team clash featuring stars who will battle in a fatal four-way U.S. title clash.

How excited are you for the go-home show of SmackDown? Share your predictions for the announced matches in the comments section.

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