SmackDown returns on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois, featuring stars like Cody Rhodes, Asuka, IYO SKY, and Tiffany Stratton. This marks the first episode after WrestleMania 42, setting the stage for what comes next in the WWE landscape.
While not all matches are confirmed, fans should expect to see the fallout from Cody Rhodes' championship defense against Randy Orton at WrestleMania. With questions lingering after that intense encounter, Rhodes is likely to address the crowd, potentially leading to new rivalries or challenges. Additionally, Asuka and IYO SKY were scheduled to square off at WrestleMania but had their match rescheduled for Backlash, leaving the women's division wide open for surprises. Keep an eye out for Tiffany Stratton, who could play a pivotal role in shaping new storylines after winning a number one contender's match.
Maxxedout's Take: This show is definitely a must-watch for fans eager to see how WrestleMania's events influence the upcoming narrative arcs. The stakes are high as new challengers and alliances are bound to emerge, especially in the dynamic women's division. With lingering tensions from the main event of WrestleMania and potential surprises from returning superstars, there is a lot to look forward to.
There’s a palpable buzz around this episode as fans anticipate how the landscape of SmackDown will shift post-WrestleMania. The excitement is tempered by some skepticism about whether the show can deliver on expectations, but for diehard WWE enthusiasts, the excitement is undeniable.
MaxxedOut will have full coverage after the show — and we'll break it all down on the podcast.
