The SmackDown following WrestleMania 41 delivered a thrilling episode, marked by electrifying action and surprising returns that captivated the audience. Alastair Black’s comeback after four years generated significant buzz, and the ongoing rivalry between Randy Orton and John Cena continued to intensify. Here’s a recap of the key events:
John Cena’s Segment
John Cena made a grand entrance, hailed by the ring announcer as a true champion. Before Cena could speak, Randy Orton’s music hit, and he was met with a thunderous ovation. Orton addressed Cena, acknowledging his “hard work, loyalty, and respect” mantra, but humorously questioned the change in his physique. He also made a lighthearted remark about Cena’s involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, suggesting he should have children of his own. Cena retorted that he had spent the last 25 years raising other people’s children.
The segment took a dramatic turn when Randy Orton challenged John Cena to a title match. Cena stated his next title opportunity would be at Backlash 2025. Abruptly, Cena threw his title aside and launched an attack on Orton, delivering a barrage of kicks. He then attempted to strike Orton with the title, but Orton countered with a devastating RKO.
This is CHAOS!! 😱@RandyOrton was one step ahead of @johncena… 👀#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/aVTi087apE
---Advertisement---— WWE (@WWE) April 26, 2025
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Fuxiom vs Los Garjas & Women’s Championship Contendership
The match between Fuxiom and Los Garjas was a high-flying spectacle. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as both teams executed impressive maneuvers. The finish saw Axiom deliver a Spanish fly from the top rope to Angel, followed by Nathan securing the victory with a breathtaking 450 splash.
.@Axiom_WWE and @WWEFrazer are taking control of this match! 🔥#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/KQbsMzWjwC
— WWE (@WWE) April 26, 2025
Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton received an enthusiastic reception. Her promo targeted Charlotte Flair, but the segment was interrupted by Z Cargill, who declared her intention to become champion. Tiffany called for a referee, and a match ensued between her and Cargill. The two athletes put on a compelling contest. However, Naomi’s interference, attacking Jade Cargill and causing a no-contest, brought the match to an abrupt end. Naomi further assaulted Cargill at the ring post before confronting Tiffany in the ring. Suddenly, Naya Jax made a surprising return, laying out Tiffany with a leg drop and a Banzai Drop.
Chelsea Green vs Gelina Vega (Women’s US Championship)
Chelsea Green defended her Women’s US Championship against Gelina Vega in a hard-fought match. Despite Vega’s strong showing and the apparent push she has been receiving, Chelsea Green ultimately secured the victory via pinfall, retaining her title.
You really thought Nia Jax was done chasing the WWE Women's Championship?! 😤#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/xoOpYvJbOl
— WWE (@WWE) April 26, 2025
Alastair Black’s Return
In a moment that sent shockwaves through the arena, Alastair Black made his long-awaited return to WWE, attacking The Miz and leaving the fans in a frenzy.
"I would say your last title run was a joke, but I can't remember it."@RealLAKnight, that was cold 🥶#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/kbCOCyzKvp
— WWE (@WWE) April 26, 2025
Drew McIntyre vs. LA Knight (US Championship Number One Contender’s Match) & Main Event Fallout
The number one contender’s match for the US Championship between Drew McIntyre and LA Knight was intense. The match took a chaotic turn when Solo Sikoa interfered, delivering a Samoan Spike to Knight while the referee was distracted. Drew went for a kick, but Damian Priest intervened, collapsing McIntyre. The match ended in a no-contest. Priest then delivered a Chokeslam to McIntyre on the announce table. Fatu further escalated the chaos by attacking both Priest and Knight, concluding with a pair of dangerous moonsaults.
The Street Profits vs Motor City – Machine Guns vs DAAY (TLC Match for WWE Tag Team Championship)
The main event was a thrilling TLC match for the WWE Tag Team Championship, featuring The Street Profits defending against Motor City Machine Guns and DAAY. All three teams put forth an incredible effort, utilizing the tables, ladders, and chairs to their advantage. In the end, Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford of The Street Profits proved their resilience, successfully retaining their tag team titles in a spectacular fashion.
THE STREET PROFITS DID IT!!!@MontezFordWWE and @AngeloDawkins just proved WHY they are the WWE Tag Team Champs! 👏🙌#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/zOhxY05GeZ
— WWE (@WWE) April 26, 2025
