Top storylines to watch on WWE SmackDown tonight (May 22, 2026): Cody Rhodes' attack; Rhea Ripley's return ahead of SNME & more

Stars set to clash at SNME will meet for the final time tonight.

Tonight’s May 22 edition of Friday Night SmackDown will emanate live from the Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The show will serve as the final episode before Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME) XLIV on May 23 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Stars set for a showdown at SNME will meet for the final time tonight on the Blue brand, while WWE will continue the build towards the upcoming PLE, Clash in Italy, likely announcing new matches or teasing new feuds.

Ahead of tonight’s show in Kentucky, let us take a look at the top four storylines that are likely to unravel on tonight’s show.

4. The Irresistible Forces sends a stern warning

WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Brie Bella and Paige will defend the title in a WrestleMania 42 rematch against the Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax & Lash Legend). While Nia and Legend have made their intentions of regaining the title very clear, the match was announced on Monday’s Raw after Brie and Paige retained it against the Judgement Day.

Fans should expect a segment, a promo battle, and even a brawl to hype up fans for the show. That said, looking at the build for matches on Raw, they might just stick to a video promo by both teams.

Also Read: WWE SmackDown (May 22, 2026): Preview, start time & where to watch

3. Solo Sikoa – Royce Keys

Last week, Solo Sikoa once again tried to help Royce Keys and convince him to join the MFTs. Sikoa interfered during the WWE title number one contenders match, where Royce was taking on Gunther. Sikoa threw in a steel chair, signalling for Keys to use it against Gunther and secure the win as well as the title shot against Cody Rhodes.

However, Keys threw the steel chair as it went crashing into Sikoa’s face, and he subsequently fell down the apron. Is that enough to make Solo realize? Will he finally stick to his heel antics and just attack Keys? Tune in to find out.

2. Rhea Ripley’s return

WWE Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley‘s absence last week cost her SNME tag partners, as Jade Cargill, B-Fab, and Michin delivered a brutal beating.

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss were outnumbered due to Ripley’s absence, and ahead of the six-woman tag team match at SNME, this might cause tensions in the babyface tag team. That said, with Ripley’s presence, another multi-woman scuffle is likely in store for fans tonight.

1. Cody Rhodes’ attack

Just as Gunther defeated Royce Keys in the main event last week to secure the title shot at Clash in Italy, Cody Rhodes launched an ambush, taking down the challenger with Cross Rhodes. This was in retaliation for the multiple attacks by Gunther in the lead-up to last week, when he refused to sign the contract until Cody asked him nicely, a move that almost backfired as Royce Keys stepped up.

That said, this will not be the last time the two are in a physical altercation before their title showdown in Italy on March 31.

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