Top three things that can happen on WWE SmackDown this week (May 16, 2025)

(Courtesy :Â WWE)
WWE SmackDown will have MITB qualifiers this week
This weekâs WWE SmackDown will take place in the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina. This will be the blue brandâs first concert since the 2025 Backlash Premium Live Event.
Only MITB qualifiers have been announced for the Friday night program as of writing. However, as we approach Money in the Bank 2025, spectators might expect several qualifying matches. In this post, weâll go over five things that may happen on WWE SmackDown this week.
3. Cody Rhodes makes his return
Cody Rhodes has been gone from WWE TV since Night Two of WrestleMania 41, when he lost his Undisputed WWE Championship to John Cena. Rhodes has been scheduled to appear on SmackDown this week.
For those who may not be aware, WWE did hype Cody Rhodesâ debut on an earlier SmackDown after âMania, but the star did not appear. So, it will be intriguing to watch what happens when The American Nightmare makes his first appearance since âMania, as well as what he has to say to the WWE Universe.
Also Read: WWE SmackDown (May 16, 2025) Preview, match card, news, timings & telecast details
2. Randy Orton faces backlash from Nick Aldis
Randy Orton fails to dethrone John Cena at Backlash 2025. Instead, he has created a major problem for himself by assaulting Nick Aldis and other PLE officials. This occurred when âThe Legend Killerâ became irritated with the refereeâs knockouts throughout the fight.
When Nick and other authorities entered the ring, The Viper delivered an RKO to not just The National Treasure, but also the other officials. So, The Apex Predatorâs antics may have major implications when Nick Aldis suspends him on the upcoming episode of SmackDown.
1. Solo Sikoa betrays Jacob Fatu
Jacob Fatu is still WWE SmackDownâs United States Champion. When Jeff Cobb and Solo Sikoa made their Backlash debuts, the Samoan Werewolf kept his championship. Meanwhile, Fatu seemed unconcerned about his appearance and was plainly perplexed by Jeffâs presence during his match.
So, on the upcoming SmackDown program, viewers may see a startling Bloodline betrayal when Solo betrays Jacob and replaces him with Jeff Cobb. This might happen if the US Champion communicates his displeasure with Soloâs antics during their battle at Backlash.
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